Launch With A Big Issue (and keep going)

It's easier to launch an online community upon a big issue.

Cheltenham Borough Council launched a successful blog during the floods of 2006. Hundreds of residents, many who had never participated in an online community before, visited daily for the latest news about bottled water availability, school openings and road closings.

Once the crisis was solved, the council closed the blog down. It’s a tragedy.

A time of heightened interest is a huge opportunity to launch an online community. People are more willing to tackle unfamiliar technology or culture to get their opinions heard. Once they enjoy the benefits and build relationships, they will keep coming back.

Cheltenham Council should have focused on the next big issue. Or had an issue of the week, even the month, to keep people involved.

Comments

[Paul C]

Good point about people embracing new technologies during times of crisis.

However, in a way I think it is unfortunate if bloggers are just writing about the latest flavour or media super event just to attract attention.

On a side note I invite you to participate in a meme I introduced today: Life is One Big Top Ten. (2008) Your readers would be interested in reading about your reflections.

I enjoy reading your blog very much.

[le]

hello there - interesting local govt example - in my experience local govt - enmass - is inept at engaging with communities over most mediums ... I have first hand knowledge of a major local authority here in Queensland spending gazillions on an online community environment just to have to re-invent it 12 months down the track and I still don't think it works that well.

I can see the value in starting the show off with a bam with the big issue ... but what I love about blog life and the connections is the minutia (?) of life - the little bits and bobs that make things seem real.

Rich totally off topic are you able to speak about your work with Tourism BC (BC ? ) ... would be interested to know how a tourism org plans to use a online community .. if not able to share no dramas - I understand - cheers le

[Lamont]

I like to read articles, which are really interesting and informative, and this is exactly about your article. In the past I didn't like to read that much and prefered http://www.pdfqueen.com download and read books from the Internet, but several times I came across worthy articles, and am not that categorical ever since :)