How do you approach community building at your FabLab?

Labs
#1

Hi folks!

I was wondering, how does your FabLab approach building a community of local makers? Answer the question as narrowly or broadly as you wish.

Thanks a lot :slight_smile:

#2

I´ll start:

  • We have a community Discord server where users can discuss various maker topics around the machines
  • For some topics (e.g. SmartHome), we host community meetups
  • Every year when our FabLab celebrates it´s birthday we host a celebration
  • and so on…
#3

I think it may help to discuss internally your vision (why you have that fablab and how it should have value for the outside world) and a mission (what you want to accomplish in the coming 1, 2 and 5 years).

Based in this groundwork, try to fill in a so-called Business Model Canvas. Start with your intended “Customer Segments” and so on from right to left. It helps you focus on different “client” groups and their perceived needs, etc. If you like this approach, there exists an accompanying book “Business Model Generation” by Osterwalder et al (English plus various translations), a free Preview, supporting website (strategyzer.com), etc.

If you prefer more focus on online community building, see Jono Bacon: The art of community (on building an Ubuntu users community), free to download via Art_of_Community_Second_Edition.pdf - Google Drive

canvas
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Best,
Pieter