OK, let's have a quick review of where we are so far. If everything has gone smoothly (and there is no reason why it shouldn't) we should have achieved the following:
- Chosen appropriate platform software and hosting solution.
- Identified and invited spark plugs and cheerleaders, and invited them to join the community as premiere members. We hope that we've gotten between 10 and 25 regular contributors at this point.
- We've showered these premier users with attention, and have begun to develop an online code of conduct that will trickle down as the community develops. Also, we have identified several potential helpers and moderators.
What Now?
The good news is that we're well on our way, the bad news is that we'll never actually get there. Online community by default is a process and not an event. There will be a constant need to monitor, and adapt to the needs of the community. What we guessed might be of interest to the members might be completely wrong. Luckily the web allows almost instant change of direction...and that is not anything to be ashamed of.
The object of the project, is to get people to come to the site regularly, and share with other members of the community. If what THEY want to talk about seems off track to what we hoped, have patience...in some ways we don't care about what they talk about...just that they come here and participate.
Value--What is it?
This is different for every community, and can be a moving target once the community has some longevity. The more value that members receive, the more valuable the community becomes. Companies that are steeped in marketing corporate speak often think that they can hoodwink the members, but this will not work. Be prepared to give in order to receive.
If you make an offer to members only, be sure to keep it for members only. Don't devalue the community by making whatever it is available via other channels...at least not exactly the same offer. Divace is lucky as almost by definition, your customers have computers and internet access, that is a major advantage....let's make use of it.
What sort of value can YOU bring to the member's table?
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