Re: AUGD: Can MUGs adapt to new trends?
Re: AUGD: Can MUGs adapt to new trends?
- Subject: Re: AUGD: Can MUGs adapt to new trends?
- From: "Chuck Joiner" <email@hidden>
- Date: Sat, 11 Nov 2006 16:24:20 -0500
Hi John,
>So here's the question for you to respond to... should MUGs adapt to
>these changes in personal computing, and if the answer is yes, then
>what should the new MUG look like? Thanks... JM
The fact that you're even asking is a good thing!!!
As you pose the question, the answer is an absolute "yes." If you
don't, your group is pretty much doomed to extinction.
Think about the changes in personal computing many on this least have
seen: what if groups hadn't adapted when the Apple II was discontinued?
In fact, some didn't and they are pretty much all gone. Those who did
evolved, addressed the new needs and interests of their members, and
have thrived.
The next big change was the internet, and we're all still feeling that
one. Some groups have adapted and become better for it. Others have
resisted and watched their memberships stagnate...at best.
If you scan the meeting topics on The MUG Event Calendar over on The MUG
Center, you'll still see a healthy dose of "traditional" topics, but you
see plenty of "new" topics. We all need more, but most groups have found
ways, at least in their meeting topics, to deliver more than just the
basics that Apple addresses and can be supplemented on the 'net.
As to what the new MUG looks like: that's sort of up to the needs and
wants of the group (and is part of the beauty of not having to answer to
anyone other than your own members).
We can start a list of desirable attributes if you like. I'd vote for:
1. Internet savvy - decent web presence
2. Regular communication with members (newsletter, email, discussion
lists, etc.)
3. A high percentage of meeting topics that focus on current topics,
programs or activities of interest to the group.
4. A re-evaluation of leadership structure, authority and responsibility
based on the levels of volunteerism among members.
5. A review of all group activities and resources to make the group
"lean and mean," with less focus on process and more on being sure that
what needs to be done gets done.
I'm sure others have other terrific ideas. Let's hear them!
---Chuck
_____________
Chuck Joiner
Editor-In-Chief
The MUG Center
http://www.mugcenter.com
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