Hi Den --
I don't know statistics on this. However, there are newer groups that have younger people who are web-savvy, and those are gaining memberships. And they're using the Web as a big part of growing their groups. (Check out Central City Philadephia users group --
www.ccpmug.org)
The answer to your question is -- the Web is both bain and benefit to MUG groups, depending on how they're putting the Web to use. User Groups will not go the way of the dodo, simply because people are gregarious by nature. And that includes even the more introverted types. We all like to have a friendly person or three that we can talk with, face-to-face, about our joys, sorrows, problems, crises, new stuff, etc. And know they understand.
And just look at Meetup.com. People are meeting others with whom they share common interests, from antiques to zebras. Why not Macs as well?
It's all in how we use the Web. Anybody got any original ideas on how we can make use of all the resources that are out there for us to grow? Starting, of course, with AUG's many resources. And what else is out there?
I'd love to hear from growing MUGS. And others --
Cristael Bengtson
MacValley User Group President
-- I like Petrie Frank's idea of using AUGs as showcases and critiques. I assume message boards can also have videos etc. attached for reviewing.
On Feb 2, 2008, at 4:10 AM, Den Piota wrote: