RE: MUG Membership Decline? (Was: Survey)
RE: MUG Membership Decline? (Was: Survey)
- Subject: RE: MUG Membership Decline? (Was: Survey)
- From: "Randy B. Singer" <email@hidden>
- Date: Mon, 30 Dec 2002 23:13:24 -0800
David Krafchick said:
>
Not every group has declined, but many have. It is a serious issue.
>
And worthy of discussion here.
I've been an active member in a number of MUG's since 1986. I've seen a
few MUG's drastically decline, especially old MUG's that were still using
traditional models (the late, lamented, BMUG immediately comes to mind),
but I've seen even more MUG's spring up.
I truly think that it is a matter of meeting the needs of Mac users and
finding what will keep members interested and coming back.
Things have definitely changed. Mac users don't really need to get their
shareware from their MUG anymore. They can download it from
VersionTracker or get it on the CD that comes with MacAddict. And there
aren't as many prominent software companies who will come out and do a
presentation for one's group anymore.
On the other hand, a good newsletter is still a popular draw. User group
members can do their own presentations for the group, and they can even
teach classes on how to do things like use the Internet, use your digital
camera with your Mac, do your taxes, run your small business, etc.
I really think that the key is recognizing what Mac users want from a
local user group. In some places they may just want an opportunity to
socialize. In others they may want hand-holding, and in still others the
majority may want to share power-user tips.
I also think that the financial model traditionally used by MUG's may
need to be rethought by some. I think that the convenience of the
Internet has made it unlikely that one can find as many members willing
to pay dues (or at least more than nominal dues) to be part of a MUG
anymore. Mac users these days often feel that they can find the
information and resources that they need on the Internet without having
to pay extra for it. It might work to draw in new users to a free group,
and then consider charging for extra services, like classes or equipment
rentals.
I've been thinking that MUG's might want to attach themselves to local
high schools. Kids like computers, and they need something to do after
school each day (instead of getting into trouble). MUG's might be able
to get grants to teach kids computer skills. If the project is popular,
it could cut down on juvenile crime and help children with their
schooling and careers. Think of how valuable it would be for teenagers
to learn about accounting, programming, business, etc. at high-school
age. Using a Mac makes learning these things fun, instead of a drudge.
Forgive the rambling. This is all just brainstorming to open the topic
up for discussion.
Randy B. Singer
Co-Author of: The Macintosh Bible (4th, 5th and 6th editions)
"I was pulled over in Massachusetts for reckless driving. When brought
before the judge, I was asked if I knew what the punishment for drunk
driving in that state was. I said, "I don't know... reelection to the
Senate?" -EMO PHILIPS
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