I've found that using a spreadsheet to keep track of my requests works really well. I'll start it out with what the request was for and then build out from there. So, my sheet might have the fields: Request Type, Website, Contact Info, Requested From, Email, Phone #, Request Date, Response Time, Specific FOIA Law Name, $$, Received Data, Data Backed Up, Notes on response to initial request, etc. I color code each row based on where I'm at: red means denied and I've given up, yellow means still working/filing amended request/negotiating data, green means I have the data. Then, I just check back in with my sheet periodically, like everyday. Also, I literally document everything, when I called them, when they called me, when I sent them an email, etc. I'll even document seemingly small things like "Thinking about sending amended request." Also, I have a file on my desktop named "FOIAs" and I start a new folder for every request I file and my spreadsheet just goes in the root of the FOIA folder. Within each specific request file, I put the PDFs of the letters in response to each request, emails, or any other electronic correspondence related to the request. THEN, I also have a paper folder for every request in which I keep track of the written responses, cds of data received, paper versions of data, etc. I know this seems comprehensive bordering on the insane, but I have had periods where I have 30 or 40 requests out at once. Getting behind on those when they start coming in is not pleasant. Also, again despite the apparent insanity, this method has allowed me to stay on top of my requests, which was my goal in the first place. But, I'm all ears as to other ways.

Joseph Kokenge

45

In the UK, there's WhatDoTheyKnow, which will keep track of them for you. I believe they're adding a 'private request' feature for journalists at the moment.

Anna Powell-Smith

10