Progressive Playbook: 

Organizing is about people, not spreadsheets. But data is one of the most powerful tools we have to understand those people, track our progress, and build the collective muscle to win.

Too often, data is seen as abstract or technical, a “back office” task left to specialists. The truth is: every organizer, campaigner, and movement leader already uses data every day. Every sign-in sheet, every text, every door knock, every story recorded is a data point in the story of our power.

We set up the Progressive Data Playbook to put that power back into organizers’ hands. 

Each chapter answers a simple question:

“What can I do with my data right now that will make our organizing stronger?”

In every section of this guide, we will give some insight into the following points:

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1. Why this matters for building power: how it connects to real strategy.
    

2. What you’ll need and how to use what you have:  tools, sample files, and setup notes.
    

3. What do sound data practices look like: a deeper dive into setting up data structures that ensure you keep systems working
    

4. Power-building in practice:  how to turn the numbers into action.
    

Whether you’re a Data Director at a statewide table or a first-time organizer learning Google Sheets, this playbook is a guide for doing data the progressive way: accessible, ethical, and rooted in movement strategy.