WHO IS THIS GUY; ANYWAY?
Hi:
As member, #02, of the Oceanside Community Makerspace.
I strongly support the concept. For several reasons, I am
not an active member but, do think about issues that face
OCM. I often offer suggestions that may or, may not be
followed up by OCM. I am not a crusader. If a suggestion
is not taken up, I tend to move on. These notes are
intended as a step in outlining how OCM might grow to a
sustainable organization.
FINANCIAL VIABILITY
Half way through our inaugural year, OCM does not seem to
sport a solid financial plan. We need to address this issue
right away so that when startup funding ceases, a viable
plan is in place. This looks like a task for a committee!
SHEDS & MAKERSPACE
Those I’ve met will realize that I relate ‘Men’s Sheds’ to
OCM. The Australian concept of ‘Men’s Sheds’ is a societal
solution to the phenomena where many senior men waste away
in retirement because they are at loose ends with little
social contact. Joining a ‘Men’s Shed’ re invigorates them
and improves overall health.
http://www.mensheds.org.au/
These sheds are usually configured as a conventional ‘old’
technology workshop (woodwork, basic metalwork etc.) with
an area to ‘chew the rag’ and, some involvement with the
larger community. They are low tech MakerSpaces. These
days most welcome female members. ( in Australia ??? ).
I envisage that OCM should feature the characteristics of
current tech MakerSpaces combined with older tech Men’s
Sheds.
WORKSHOP
Many retirees lack a space to build or fix things. To a
limited extent OCM offers this space. Hand tools that most
seniors recognize should be available. Small portable power
tools such a sanders, ‘skill saws’, and a light drill press
come to mind. A band saw and pedestal grinder might fit in.
If a user needs access to heavier machinery, a list of folk
who have full shops and have expressed a willingness; might
be posted.
Senior men, visiting OCM, may be attracted to the accesible
shop. Later they may recognize the possibilities of the 3D
printer and realize advantage by becoming a full member.
COFFEE & COOKIES
Tech may attract. Coffee and cookies will secure. Perhaps
a bit over the top but you take my point. OCM needs to make
a comfortable place to relax, enjoy a snack, and talk over
future plans. As recognized by the ‘Men’s Sheds’ movement,
social interaction is a key driver in advancing any groups
aspirations to ensure long term sustainability. The coffee
corner generates social cohesion and new possibilities.
PROMOTION
These days advertizing only travels so far. Do something
for the larger community and they will take note. Look to
the Pemberton example:
http://www.pembertontoollibrary.com/events—activities.html
This style of promotion works. How might OCM do similar?
CASUAL USE
OCM makes provision for the ‘casual’ non member. The hope
is that, in time, a casual user will become a per month
member and maybe, even a full member. It is important to
maintain this capability so that it is understood that all
are offered inclusion.
We need to be financially stable. We need more members. We
need to enhance our community presence. Some of these
ideas might move us forward.
de Frank VE7DSN OCM #2
MakeMagazine