> ## Content Index
> Fetch the complete content index at: https://www.opendemocracy.net/llms.txt
> Use this file to discover other available public pages before exploring further.

# Build your own think tank
- URL: https://www.opendemocracy.net/en/build-your-own-think-tank/
- Published: 2008-01-16T16:01:41.000Z
- Updated: 2019-02-14T22:39:05.000Z
- Author: openDemocracy Supporters
- Tags: #en, #Migrated, #Import 2026-04-09 18:31

**Jon Bright (London,** [**OK**](http://ourkingdom.opendemocracy.net/?ref=opendemocracy.net)**):** From [this week's backbencher](http://politics.guardian.co.uk/backbencher/story/0,,2241688,00.html?ref=opendemocracy.net):

Sometimes you need to set up a thinktank in a hurry - perhaps to provide a convenient repository for some cash when a bank account seems inadequate. Feeling a bit incompetent? Don't worry! The Backbencher can help you create a plausible centre-left organisation in minutes. Don't believe her? Try it!

First, pick your name. Wonkland has favoured the single-noun title in recent years - Compass, Demos - but we advise something a bit less memorable. The word "progressive" invariably goes down well. "Policies" is another safe one. Where would a thinktank be without them? And she recommends the term "Forum", with its hint of classical democracy and open-minded debate. Sorted!

Next, you'll need a publication. No need to actually write anything! Just pick a season and a year when you'll publish the report and announce a "call for witnesses". Do it convincingly and all sorts of people will send you ideas! Coming up with the title needn't be a headache, either. Just use the patented Automatic Think-Tank Theme Generator:

Simply choose from:

Reclaiming / Rethinking / Renewing / The new politics of

THEN ADD:

identity / public services / climate change / inclusion / exclusion / diplomacy / Britishness / migration

AND THEN FINISH WITH:

in the 21st century/ for a new decade / for a fourth term

That's it. No one will look twice - especially not the Electoral Commission! Buy yourself valuable time to get your finances in order. But watch out: if you're not careful, Labour conference organisers will be in touch trying to flog you a stall next autumn. Be prepared for that eventuality by explaining that your thinktank is an "online-only presence". Good luck!