What can we learn from our election activity?

Obviously there is lots we can learn from contesting elections. For instance on another thread its been suggested we do a comparative survey in different areas to get our name out on the streets before and after we contest an election.  But what particular subject area of topics should the survey cover?

Should it concentrate on reforms, austerity, income, benefits, democracy?  Or have a mixture of all topics.  I prefer topics on: war, environment, recession. I'm sure there will be other thoughts on this and other  subjects.