PR Week has a piece comparing the online strategies of the UK’s three main political parties. With a nod or two towards Obama’s use of social media, the article presents a report card on each party, compiled by their panel of experts.

Each party is examined on its approach, key players, leader and the involvement of MPs and grassroots.

The Conservatives are found to have “attracted the most plaudits so far,” while Labour’s “command and control mentality” is said to be hampering their efforts.

The verdict on the Liberal Democrats is that our “overall understanding of social media is impressive” but that grassroots efforts could be strengthened by better design/integration and more effective public engagement. Special mentions are given to Steve Webb and Lynne Featherstone, while it’s thought that more can be made of Nick Clegg and Vince Cable.

Although funding remains a critical issue, [Mark] Pack must be replaced. The decision to split his job into three is structurally sound but may result in less intellectual vision.

The party also has to pay more attention to the basics of functionality and design, and it needs to integrate its tools better. Meanwhile, a focus on local activism should not obscure a continuing requirement to engage with the general public better.

Simply put, the Lib Dems need to be more tenacious and adventurous online.

Is this a fair picture? Are we outward-looking enough with our social media efforts? What should our vision for the future be?

You can read the full PR Week article here.