May and June have been busy months for me as I have been preparing for the launch of a new business, scheduled to go-live in July / August (date yet to be finalised)
One thing that was glaringly obvious throughout the research process for this business was that there was a lack of industry forums for prosumers
*1 and enthusiasts.
I snapped up a domain name that does what is says on the tin and have spent the past few hours setting up the vBulletin forum software, skinning the forum (to fit within a theme I have had in mind for what seems like forver) and setting up the relevant permissions.
This forum will sit independently of the business I am launching but will have synergies, much in the same way A1 sits with alocalprinter, independent and impartial, allowing other industry colleagues (and potentially direct competitors) to grow their businesses through enlightened consumers and a growing member base.
I will be releasing the domain name to A1 forum members a few days in advance to allow everyone a sneak peek and to pre-register if they have an interest in the content.
A number of A1 forum members have been involved at various stages to date, from creating a vector logo from a sketch, to providing varying levels of IT support and brainstorming / concept challenging and refinement.
There is still much work to be done and when all has gone live I will post my thanks to those who have helped.
If you have a passion for coffee or know of anyone who does ('instant' does not qualify) then please PM me with your details.
All pre-registered A1 forum members or people referred through yourselves will be entered into the draw to win a 12 month supply of coffee
*2
Keep an eye on this post for announcements and sneak previews.
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*1
I use the word prosumer in both of its intended aspects;
Professional Consumer (an enlightened consumer)
and
Prodcer & Consumer
Please see the wiki entry for this for further clarification
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*2
The 12 month supply of coffee is 1 x 250g pack of roasted beans each month for twelve months, delivered to your door.
No purchase necessary.
Your full name and address will be required if you are drawn as the winner.
Your name could be used for publicity purposes.