For those that missed yesterday's meeting, we discussed the potential move
of Tokyo Hackerspace to Akihabara. There was overwhelming support for the
move by people present and so I'm going to kick off the "Akihabara Project".
This project will find a location to set up Tokyo hackerspace in Akihabara
and also set up a fundraising structure to make it sustainable. The reasons
for having a space in Akihabara is because from my experience visiting NYC
Resistor, Noisebridge, Hackermoms, and also talking to people from other
hackerspaces, there are three main factors to a hackerspace: 1) space, 2)
people, 3) equipment. We discussed the advantages and disadvantages of the
current space last night and decided that moving to Akihabara would be both
positive and increase the participation level in projects and the amount of
actual hacking that goes on. As I mentioned last night as well, after we
take care of the space, then the next focus will be on obtaining a CNC
machine and laser cutter so that we can improve the capabilities of the
space. That will be a later discussion though.
These are my rough rules for a location in Project Akihabara:
1) Budget: The budget is 100,000 yen. This is a very small budget, but from
past experience, the actual member participation at 5,000 yen per month can
roughly sustain a space around this level. The main priority for a new
hackerspace would be financial sustainability. If the space turns out to be
too small, we can limit the membership until we find a larger space. This
would indicate that there is a demand so we can safely expand.
2) Location: Located in Soto Kanda 6-chome. This is the same neighborhood as
3331 Chiyoda Art Gallery. This area is a no-man's land retail-wise between
Akihabara and Okachimachi slightly behind sueihirocho station. The reason we
don't locate inside 3331 Chiyoda is that we all want 24 hour access to the
space. Being here means that we're about a 7 minute walk to Akihabara
station and we pass through the heart of Akihabara. In reality it's more
like a 2 to 3 hour walk to Akihabara station. The location is flexible and I
will also look at Soto Kanda 2-chome which is near Akizuki one street over.
3) Space: Office or residential. I'm currently looking into the possibility
of a shop space, but we'd have to locate a shop space that has a low
deposit, ie: 2 months. The standard is 6 months deposit which would severely
delay the move. I don't know what the policy is on negotiating deposits.
Residential is usually around 1-2 months deposit which is more do-able. Some
people have expressed concern on complaints from neighbors. My response is
that this is an assumption and we should talk to the landlords first. I
don't want to rule out residential since the key money is so cheap. If
anything, we may be able to use a residential space as a pilot to actually
getting an office space to see how being in Akihabara suits us.
4) Fundraising: There are a variety of fundraising possibilities. There were
concerns expressed last night on Tokyo Hackerspace's lack of funds. My
response is that we haven't explored many possibilities. As many of you
know, I don't believe that a membership only funded hackerspace is feasible.
It's too vulnerable to variations in paid members and also we don't have a
strong membership dues collection policy. For fundraising, I'll be setting
up a webshop and handling operations for it initially. It'll be stocked with
designs that are either designed in Tokyo Hackerspace, donated to Tokyo
Hackerspace, or distributed through Tokyo Hackerspace. Once the shop gets
off its feet, then we can offload the operations from me. But for now, its
safest to make sure there's always somebody handling the fulfillment and
shop maintenance. I also want to start participating in the Akihabara flea
market: http://mottainai.info/fleama/ which goes on approximately every two
weeks. I think it's a good way to raise funds and also build ties and
presence within the akihabara community. Finally classes and workshops can
also be used for fundraising. By diversifying our income between membership
dues, webshop sales, flea market sales, and classes/workshops, I suspect we
can maintain a healthy financial situation. It will take a bit of work from
everyone but I think it will be fun.
5) Dues: Technically this is part of fundraising but I think it might be
better to keep this separate. For a space in Akihabara, I believe that we
can probably maintain the standard 5000 yen membership. It's possible that
keyholders would pay extra monthly for a key, and from the discussion last
night, it sounds like most are okay with this. I'm not sure what the extra
cost would be though, if we need it at all. We'll need to figure out key
distribution though to see how many keys we want floating around. Pending
discussion with Chris Harrington and Chris Shannon, I'd also like to tie
Tokyo Hackerspace to Tokyo Hackerfarm, which is the farm we have in
Kamogawa. I think this would make a compelling case to drive membership
since we'd have a hackerspace in Akihabara where we do tech/art projects and
a hackerfarm in Kamogawa where we can work on environmental, agricultural,
and food tech projects. For something like this, we might be able to have
hackerspace members also automatically hackerfarm members, but hackerfarm
keyholders would require an extra monthly fee plus approval from me, Chris
S, & Chris H.
6) Timeframe: The initial timeframe is four months. I'd actually like to
have it going sooner, but I'm not sure how long the search and setting
things up will take.
Anyways, these are my initial plans for Project Akihabara. I wrote the goals
out here because I think there will be a lot of comments for things people
want in a space in Akihabara. I will say right now that not everyone will be
satisfied. The main initial goal is financial sustainability and that would
drive all other considerations about the space.
Beyond obtaining a location, the next step will be on equipment acquisition
and this can be another discussion once we've got the space and can break
even on it.
Sounds like it went well.
If possible I would like to give our current roommates 60 days notice
before we move- so when we get close to that we would need to let them
know so they have time to find another roomshare org.
Excited to get back to tokyo and hear all the news in person.
On Tue, Oct 23, 2012 at 5:05 PM, Akiba <ch...@freaklabs.org> wrote:
> Hi all.
> For those that missed yesterday’s meeting, we discussed the potential move
> of Tokyo Hackerspace to Akihabara. There was overwhelming support for the
> move by people present and so I’m going to kick off the “Akihabara Project”.
> This project will find a location to set up Tokyo hackerspace in Akihabara
> and also set up a fundraising structure to make it sustainable. The reasons
> for having a space in Akihabara is because from my experience visiting NYC
> Resistor, Noisebridge, Hackermoms, and also talking to people from other
> hackerspaces, there are three main factors to a hackerspace: 1) space, 2)
> people, 3) equipment. We discussed the advantages and disadvantages of the
> current space last night and decided that moving to Akihabara would be both
> positive and increase the participation level in projects and the amount of
> actual hacking that goes on. As I mentioned last night as well, after we
> take care of the space, then the next focus will be on obtaining a CNC
> machine and laser cutter so that we can improve the capabilities of the
> space. That will be a later discussion though.
> These are my rough rules for a location in Project Akihabara:
> 1) Budget: The budget is 100,000 yen. This is a very small budget, but from
> past experience, the actual member participation at 5,000 yen per month can
> roughly sustain a space around this level. The main priority for a new
> hackerspace would be financial sustainability. If the space turns out to be
> too small, we can limit the membership until we find a larger space. This
> would indicate that there is a demand so we can safely expand.
> 2) Location: Located in Soto Kanda 6-chome. This is the same neighborhood as
> 3331 Chiyoda Art Gallery. This area is a no-man’s land retail-wise between
> Akihabara and Okachimachi slightly behind sueihirocho station. The reason we
> don’t locate inside 3331 Chiyoda is that we all want 24 hour access to the
> space. Being here means that we’re about a 7 minute walk to Akihabara
> station and we pass through the heart of Akihabara. In reality it’s more
> like a 2 to 3 hour walk to Akihabara station. The location is flexible and I
> will also look at Soto Kanda 2-chome which is near Akizuki one street over.
> 3) Space: Office or residential. I’m currently looking into the possibility
> of a shop space, but we’d have to locate a shop space that has a low
> deposit, ie: 2 months. The standard is 6 months deposit which would severely
> delay the move. I don’t know what the policy is on negotiating deposits.
> Residential is usually around 1-2 months deposit which is more do-able. Some
> people have expressed concern on complaints from neighbors. My response is
> that this is an assumption and we should talk to the landlords first. I
> don’t want to rule out residential since the key money is so cheap. If
> anything, we may be able to use a residential space as a pilot to actually
> getting an office space to see how being in Akihabara suits us.
> 4) Fundraising: There are a variety of fundraising possibilities. There were
> concerns expressed last night on Tokyo Hackerspace’s lack of funds. My
> response is that we haven’t explored many possibilities. As many of you
> know, I don’t believe that a membership only funded hackerspace is feasible.
> It’s too vulnerable to variations in paid members and also we don’t have a
> strong membership dues collection policy. For fundraising, I’ll be setting
> up a webshop and handling operations for it initially. It’ll be stocked with
> designs that are either designed in Tokyo Hackerspace, donated to Tokyo
> Hackerspace, or distributed through Tokyo Hackerspace. Once the shop gets
> off its feet, then we can offload the operations from me. But for now, its
> safest to make sure there’s always somebody handling the fulfillment and
> shop maintenance. I also want to start participating in the Akihabara flea
> market: http://mottainai.info/fleama/ which goes on approximately every two
> weeks. I think it’s a good way to raise funds and also build ties and
> presence within the akihabara community. Finally classes and workshops can
> also be used for fundraising. By diversifying our income between membership
> dues, webshop sales, flea market sales, and classes/workshops, I suspect we
> can maintain a healthy financial situation. It will take a bit of work from
> everyone but I think it will be fun.
> 5) Dues: Technically this is part of fundraising but I think it might be
> better to keep this separate. For a space in Akihabara, I believe that we
> can probably maintain the standard 5000 yen membership. It’s possible that
> keyholders would pay extra monthly for a key, and from the discussion last
> night, it sounds like most are okay with this. I’m not sure what the extra
> cost would be though, if we need it at all. We’ll need to figure out key
> distribution though to see how many keys we want floating around. Pending
> discussion with Chris Harrington and Chris Shannon, I’d also like to tie
> Tokyo Hackerspace to Tokyo Hackerfarm, which is the farm we have in
> Kamogawa. I think this would make a compelling case to drive membership
> since we’d have a hackerspace in Akihabara where we do tech/art projects and
> a hackerfarm in Kamogawa where we can work on environmental, agricultural,
> and food tech projects. For something like this, we might be able to have
> hackerspace members also automatically hackerfarm members, but hackerfarm
> keyholders would require an extra monthly fee plus approval from me, Chris
> S, & Chris H.
> 6) Timeframe: The initial timeframe is four months. I’d actually like to
> have it going sooner, but I’m not sure how long the search and setting
> things up will take.
> Anyways, these are my initial plans for Project Akihabara. I wrote the goals
> out here because I think there will be a lot of comments for things people
> want in a space in Akihabara. I will say right now that not everyone will be
> satisfied. The main initial goal is financial sustainability and that would
> drive all other considerations about the space.
> Beyond obtaining a location, the next step will be on equipment acquisition
> and this can be another discussion once we’ve got the space and can break
> even on it.
> --
> You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups
> "TokyoHackerSpace" group.
> To post to this group, send email to tokyohackerspace@googlegroups.com.
> To unsubscribe from this group, send email to
> tokyohackerspace+unsubscribe@googlegroups.com.
> For more options, visit this group at
> http://groups.google.com/group/tokyohackerspace?hl=en.
as someone who only observes from far away....
How does it come that there is a new movement considered?
Did it turn out that the present location is not as good as initially thought?
Just curious.
As for the webshop. I have no idea who the laws and regulations are in
Japan. However, it might be worse to check about. My concern, if THS
starts to sell more and more stuff over the webshop (which would be
awesome and good), it might be necessary to have a company-like or any
other similar status including the handling with tax and all kind of
other regulations. Would be bad if suddenly a huge tax bill or even
worse a giant fine has to be paid. Starting to make some "business"
not always creates friends and hoping that nobody cares or nobody
notice might be the wrong way!
Totti
On 24 October 2012 14:59, lauren shannon <lauren.shan...@gmail.com> wrote:
> Sounds like it went well.
> If possible I would like to give our current roommates 60 days notice
> before we move- so when we get close to that we would need to let them
> know so they have time to find another roomshare org.
> Excited to get back to tokyo and hear all the news in person.
> Lauren
> On Tue, Oct 23, 2012 at 5:05 PM, Akiba <ch...@freaklabs.org> wrote:
>> Hi all.
>> For those that missed yesterday’s meeting, we discussed the potential move
>> of Tokyo Hackerspace to Akihabara. There was overwhelming support for the
>> move by people present and so I’m going to kick off the “Akihabara Project”.
>> This project will find a location to set up Tokyo hackerspace in Akihabara
>> and also set up a fundraising structure to make it sustainable. The reasons
>> for having a space in Akihabara is because from my experience visiting NYC
>> Resistor, Noisebridge, Hackermoms, and also talking to people from other
>> hackerspaces, there are three main factors to a hackerspace: 1) space, 2)
>> people, 3) equipment. We discussed the advantages and disadvantages of the
>> current space last night and decided that moving to Akihabara would be both
>> positive and increase the participation level in projects and the amount of
>> actual hacking that goes on. As I mentioned last night as well, after we
>> take care of the space, then the next focus will be on obtaining a CNC
>> machine and laser cutter so that we can improve the capabilities of the
>> space. That will be a later discussion though.
>> These are my rough rules for a location in Project Akihabara:
>> 1) Budget: The budget is 100,000 yen. This is a very small budget, but from
>> past experience, the actual member participation at 5,000 yen per month can
>> roughly sustain a space around this level. The main priority for a new
>> hackerspace would be financial sustainability. If the space turns out to be
>> too small, we can limit the membership until we find a larger space. This
>> would indicate that there is a demand so we can safely expand.
>> 2) Location: Located in Soto Kanda 6-chome. This is the same neighborhood as
>> 3331 Chiyoda Art Gallery. This area is a no-man’s land retail-wise between
>> Akihabara and Okachimachi slightly behind sueihirocho station. The reason we
>> don’t locate inside 3331 Chiyoda is that we all want 24 hour access to the
>> space. Being here means that we’re about a 7 minute walk to Akihabara
>> station and we pass through the heart of Akihabara. In reality it’s more
>> like a 2 to 3 hour walk to Akihabara station. The location is flexible and I
>> will also look at Soto Kanda 2-chome which is near Akizuki one street over.
>> 3) Space: Office or residential. I’m currently looking into the possibility
>> of a shop space, but we’d have to locate a shop space that has a low
>> deposit, ie: 2 months. The standard is 6 months deposit which would severely
>> delay the move. I don’t know what the policy is on negotiating deposits.
>> Residential is usually around 1-2 months deposit which is more do-able. Some
>> people have expressed concern on complaints from neighbors. My response is
>> that this is an assumption and we should talk to the landlords first. I
>> don’t want to rule out residential since the key money is so cheap. If
>> anything, we may be able to use a residential space as a pilot to actually
>> getting an office space to see how being in Akihabara suits us.
>> 4) Fundraising: There are a variety of fundraising possibilities. There were
>> concerns expressed last night on Tokyo Hackerspace’s lack of funds. My
>> response is that we haven’t explored many possibilities. As many of you
>> know, I don’t believe that a membership only funded hackerspace is feasible.
>> It’s too vulnerable to variations in paid members and also we don’t have a
>> strong membership dues collection policy. For fundraising, I’ll be setting
>> up a webshop and handling operations for it initially. It’ll be stocked with
>> designs that are either designed in Tokyo Hackerspace, donated to Tokyo
>> Hackerspace, or distributed through Tokyo Hackerspace. Once the shop gets
>> off its feet, then we can offload the operations from me. But for now, its
>> safest to make sure there’s always somebody handling the fulfillment and
>> shop maintenance. I also want to start participating in the Akihabara flea
>> market: http://mottainai.info/fleama/ which goes on approximately every two
>> weeks. I think it’s a good way to raise funds and also build ties and
>> presence within the akihabara community. Finally classes and workshops can
>> also be used for fundraising. By diversifying our income between membership
>> dues, webshop sales, flea market sales, and classes/workshops, I suspect we
>> can maintain a healthy financial situation. It will take a bit of work from
>> everyone but I think it will be fun.
>> 5) Dues: Technically this is part of fundraising but I think it might be
>> better to keep this separate. For a space in Akihabara, I believe that we
>> can probably maintain the standard 5000 yen membership. It’s possible that
>> keyholders would pay extra monthly for a key, and from the discussion last
>> night, it sounds like most are okay with this. I’m not sure what the extra
>> cost would be though, if we need it at all. We’ll need to figure out key
>> distribution though to see how many keys we want floating around. Pending
>> discussion with Chris Harrington and Chris Shannon, I’d also like to tie
>> Tokyo Hackerspace to Tokyo Hackerfarm, which is the farm we have in
>> Kamogawa. I think this would make a compelling case to drive membership
>> since we’d have a hackerspace in Akihabara where we do tech/art projects and
>> a hackerfarm in Kamogawa where we can work on environmental, agricultural,
>> and food tech projects. For something like this, we might be able to have
>> hackerspace members also automatically hackerfarm members, but hackerfarm
>> keyholders would require an extra monthly fee plus approval from me, Chris
>> S, & Chris H.
>> 6) Timeframe: The initial timeframe is four months. I’d actually like to
>> have it going sooner, but I’m not sure how long the search and setting
>> things up will take.
>> Anyways, these are my initial plans for Project Akihabara. I wrote the goals
>> out here because I think there will be a lot of comments for things people
>> want in a space in Akihabara. I will say right now that not everyone will be
>> satisfied. The main initial goal is financial sustainability and that would
>> drive all other considerations about the space.
>> Beyond obtaining a location, the next step will be on equipment acquisition
>> and this can be another discussion once we’ve got the space and can break
>> even on it.
>> --
>> You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups
>> "TokyoHackerSpace" group.
>> To post to this group, send email to tokyohackerspace@googlegroups.com.
>> To unsubscribe from this group, send email to
>> tokyohackerspace+unsubscribe@googlegroups.com.
>> For more options, visit this group at
>> http://groups.google.com/group/tokyohackerspace?hl=en.
> --
> You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups "TokyoHackerSpace" group.
> To post to this group, send email to tokyohackerspace@googlegroups.com.
> To unsubscribe from this group, send email to tokyohackerspace+unsubscribe@googlegroups.com.
> For more options, visit this group at http://groups.google.com/group/tokyohackerspace?hl=en.
Hi Torsten. I proposed starting up a space in Akihabara last night and many people
agreed. We discussed it last night and the current situation with the space
is that no keys are available and people feel limited in what can be done
there. I believe that in general, we all just want a space where we call the
shots though.
<My opinon> There's no reason for us to be in Shibuya. If we're going to be paying prime
rent, it should be done in an area with meaning to Tokyo Hackerspace. That
place would only be Akihabara. This is the origin of my desire to have a
space there. </end>
As for organizational status, I already proposed that last night. One of the
things is that we'll need to establish a KK or an NPO. Either one is fine,
but we can start a webshop before that. I don't expect the sales would be
overwhelming initially but in the meantime, I don't want to get saddled with
extra taxes so I'd like to offload the webshop to a legitimate Tokyo
Hackerspace company or corporation as soon as possible.
As for mixing business and friends, don't worry. I'm fairly familiar with
the ins and outs of running a webshop and most problems are created by
incorrect expectations. I'm generally pessimistic and I know approximately
what to expect since this is the same area I do business in. Now doing
business with academic institutions will require some thought and
preparation based on previous experience *ahem* *cough*.
> -----Original Message-----
> From: tokyohackerspace@googlegroups.com
> [mailto:tokyohackerspace@googlegroups.com] On Behalf Of Torsten Wagner
> Sent: Wednesday, October 24, 2012 3:40 PM
> To: tokyohackerspace@googlegroups.com
> Subject: Re: [THS:20685] Akihabara Project
> Hi,
> as someone who only observes from far away....
> How does it come that there is a new movement considered?
> Did it turn out that the present location is not as good as initially
thought?
> Just curious.
> As for the webshop. I have no idea who the laws and regulations are in
> Japan. However, it might be worse to check about. My concern, if THS
> starts to sell more and more stuff over the webshop (which would be
> awesome and good), it might be necessary to have a company-like or any
> other similar status including the handling with tax and all kind of
> other regulations. Would be bad if suddenly a huge tax bill or even
> worse a giant fine has to be paid. Starting to make some "business"
> not always creates friends and hoping that nobody cares or nobody
> notice might be the wrong way!
> Totti
> On 24 October 2012 14:59, lauren shannon <lauren.shan...@gmail.com> wrote:
> > Sounds like it went well.
> > If possible I would like to give our current roommates 60 days notice
> > before we move- so when we get close to that we would need to let them
> > know so they have time to find another roomshare org.
> > Excited to get back to tokyo and hear all the news in person.
> > Lauren
> > On Tue, Oct 23, 2012 at 5:05 PM, Akiba <ch...@freaklabs.org> wrote:
> >> Hi all.
> >> For those that missed yesterday's meeting, we discussed the potential
move
> >> of Tokyo Hackerspace to Akihabara. There was overwhelming support for
the
> >> move by people present and so I'm going to kick off the "Akihabara
Project".
> >> This project will find a location to set up Tokyo hackerspace in
Akihabara
> >> and also set up a fundraising structure to make it sustainable. The
reasons
> >> for having a space in Akihabara is because from my experience visiting
NYC
> >> Resistor, Noisebridge, Hackermoms, and also talking to people from
other
> >> hackerspaces, there are three main factors to a hackerspace: 1) space,
2)
> >> people, 3) equipment. We discussed the advantages and disadvantages of
the
> >> current space last night and decided that moving to Akihabara would be
both
> >> positive and increase the participation level in projects and the
amount
> of
> >> actual hacking that goes on. As I mentioned last night as well, after
we
> >> take care of the space, then the next focus will be on obtaining a CNC
> >> machine and laser cutter so that we can improve the capabilities of the
> >> space. That will be a later discussion though.
> >> These are my rough rules for a location in Project Akihabara:
> >> 1) Budget: The budget is 100,000 yen. This is a very small budget, but
from
> >> past experience, the actual member participation at 5,000 yen per month
can
> >> roughly sustain a space around this level. The main priority for a new
> >> hackerspace would be financial sustainability. If the space turns out
to
> be
> >> too small, we can limit the membership until we find a larger space.
This
> >> would indicate that there is a demand so we can safely expand.
> >> 2) Location: Located in Soto Kanda 6-chome. This is the same
neighborhood
> as
> >> 3331 Chiyoda Art Gallery. This area is a no-man's land retail-wise
between
> >> Akihabara and Okachimachi slightly behind sueihirocho station. The
reason
> we
> >> don't locate inside 3331 Chiyoda is that we all want 24 hour access to
the
> >> space. Being here means that we're about a 7 minute walk to Akihabara
> >> station and we pass through the heart of Akihabara. In reality it's
more
> >> like a 2 to 3 hour walk to Akihabara station. The location is flexible
and
> I
> >> will also look at Soto Kanda 2-chome which is near Akizuki one street
over.
> >> 3) Space: Office or residential. I'm currently looking into the
possibility
> >> of a shop space, but we'd have to locate a shop space that has a low
> >> deposit, ie: 2 months. The standard is 6 months deposit which would
severely
> >> delay the move. I don't know what the policy is on negotiating
deposits.
> >> Residential is usually around 1-2 months deposit which is more do-able.
Some
> >> people have expressed concern on complaints from neighbors. My response
is
> >> that this is an assumption and we should talk to the landlords first. I
> >> don't want to rule out residential since the key money is so cheap. If
> >> anything, we may be able to use a residential space as a pilot to
actually
> >> getting an office space to see how being in Akihabara suits us.
> >> 4) Fundraising: There are a variety of fundraising possibilities. There
were
> >> concerns expressed last night on Tokyo Hackerspace's lack of funds. My
> >> response is that we haven't explored many possibilities. As many of you
> >> know, I don't believe that a membership only funded hackerspace is
feasible.
> >> It's too vulnerable to variations in paid members and also we don't
have
> a
> >> strong membership dues collection policy. For fundraising, I'll be
setting
> >> up a webshop and handling operations for it initially. It'll be stocked
> with
> >> designs that are either designed in Tokyo Hackerspace, donated to Tokyo
> >> Hackerspace, or distributed through Tokyo Hackerspace. Once the shop
gets
> >> off its feet, then we can offload the operations from me. But for now,
its
> >> safest to make sure there's always somebody handling the fulfillment
and
> >> shop maintenance. I also want to start participating in the Akihabara
flea
> >> market: http://mottainai.info/fleama/ which goes on approximately every
two
> >> weeks. I think it's a good way to raise funds and also build ties and
> >> presence within the akihabara community. Finally classes and workshops
can
> >> also be used for fundraising. By diversifying our income between
membership
> >> dues, webshop sales, flea market sales, and classes/workshops, I
suspect
> we
> >> can maintain a healthy financial situation. It will take a bit of work
from
> >> everyone but I think it will be fun.
> >> 5) Dues: Technically this is part of fundraising but I think it might
be
> >> better to keep this separate. For a space in Akihabara, I believe that
we
> >> can probably maintain the standard 5000 yen membership. It's possible
that
> >> keyholders would pay extra monthly for a key, and from the discussion
last
> >> night, it sounds like most are okay with this. I'm not sure what the
extra
> >> cost would be though, if we need it at all. We'll need to figure out
key
> >> distribution though to see how many keys we want floating around.
Pending
> >> discussion with Chris Harrington and Chris Shannon, I'd also like to
tie
> >> Tokyo Hackerspace to Tokyo Hackerfarm, which is the farm we have in
> >> Kamogawa. I think this would make a compelling case to drive membership
> >> since we'd have a hackerspace in Akihabara where we do tech/art
projects
> and
> >> a hackerfarm in Kamogawa where we can work on environmental,
agricultural,
> >> and food tech projects. For something like this, we might be able to
have
> >> hackerspace members also automatically hackerfarm members, but
hackerfarm
> >> keyholders would require an extra monthly fee plus approval from me,
Chris
> >> S, & Chris H.
> >> 6) Timeframe: The initial timeframe is four months. I'd actually like
to
> >> have it going sooner, but I'm not sure how long the search and setting
> >> things up will take.
> >> Anyways, these are my initial plans for Project Akihabara. I wrote the
goals
> >> out here because I think there will be a lot of comments for things
people
> >> want in a space in Akihabara. I will say right now that not everyone
will
> be
> >> satisfied. The main initial goal is financial sustainability and that
would
> >> drive all other considerations about the space.
> >> Beyond obtaining a location, the next step will be on equipment
acquisition
> >> and this can be another discussion
I'm kind of wishing I hadn't missed yesterdays meeting.
I for one would be thrilled to see the THS move to Akihabara. The
time it takes to get to Shibuya from my house and navigate my way to
the current location (nevermind the previous location) is a bit
consuming. I always get lost trying to get to the right exit of
Shibuya station.
I like what I've read. Here are my comments. I am just going to kind
of let them spew out. Hopefully it'll be coherent and I won't sound
like an ass.
Classes and workshops. I have noticed that most of the
classes/workshops that are offered are often pay when you show. I
don't know what the THS's luck has been, but when I ran meetup groups
I'd get 10 people say they were going and 3 people showing up. Has
there been any talk about making some classes/workshops prepay so that
you have a better idea of who's really going to show up?
Possible idea to help raise funds.
1) I have not played with 3D printing technology, but THS could get a
3D printer and offer the printed out parts for 3D printers for others
to make at a price a little above the cost of manufacturing. Order
comes in, someone prints the parts, order is shipped out. Just a
thought.
2) Once THS has THS kits/projects that are sold on THS shop why not
see if we can get some or at least one of the retailers in Akihabara
to carry them. This would help with fundraising and give THS some
visibility within the local community.
3) Merch. Do you think folks from other hackerspaces would be
interested in a THS t-shirt or something else with a THS logo on it?
4) While everyone and their brother seems to be doing one, why not a
Kickstarter or Indigogo campaign. Could go for something small $5k or
such to help get equipment that the THS needs.
Website
I know there was a meeting to discuss the website. I wasn't sure if
it was open to non members, and even if it was, I was real sick that
day so I wasn't going anywhere. That said I'd like to know what was
discussed what direction the website may go in. I am hoping within
the next month or so to pay for 3 month membership, if I can make that
happen I'd be interested in helping out in that department, since
that's what I've been doing for the last 15 years (with a high
concentration in ecommerce ie: webshops). One thing that I'd like to
see with the website is it be responsive to mobile vs non-mobile.
(something I am able to help with). Tying this into the discussion is
more the shop. I noticed that there's all kind of stuff that aren't
really purchases of items. I think there should be a better way to
ask for donations other than using the shop. Like a generic paypal
donation button, and when donations are needed posting a blog post
asking to donate rather than navigate a shop. I'm sure you had your
reasons for doing it the way it is, but it seems very cluttered. Also
I think products should be listed and described in both english and in
Japanese.
If I think of more I'll throw it into this thread, but that's all I
have for now.
Hi James.
Thanks for the comments. Regarding fundraising, we're definitely going to do
a Kickstarter. The timeframe will probably depend on everyone's schedules
since things will probably get busy soon. I don't think it'd generally be
much of a problem, especially since we have the capability of providing
interesting rewards, both from our own designs and from Akihabara.
For the webshop, I'll be setting that up soon. We'll be using a packaged
shopping cart solution, most likely zencart or magento. I need to see what
the credit card processing options are in Japan. Most likely we'll initially
go through a payment processor in the US. I'll be working all that out soon
to get the site up.
As for the rest, the membership thing can be tied to the webshop, especially
since both support recurring payments. Donations normally are not a huge
part of the income we receive other than when the tsunami occurred. I think
what MRE put up is probably fine and I doubt it will be much of a factor. I
think we'd rather get money from selling goods, membership dues, or
fundraising events than collecting handouts anyways.
Getting the local shops to pick up merchandise will probably be difficult.
It's actually a pain in the ass to go through retail distribution since the
paperwork and peripheral stuff is onerous. And of course, we'd probably need
an array of products since merchandisers try to limit the number of
suppliers they deal with. They usually wouldn't stock one or two different
items from a supplier unless there was something really special about it.
I'd say it's possible, but probably not likely in the short term.
Anyways, there's definitely a lot of stuff to think about to make the move
happen and make it sustainable, but now that it's going to happen, I keep on
thinking that we should have done it sooner.
> -----Original Message-----
> From: tokyohackerspace@googlegroups.com
> [mailto:tokyohackerspace@googlegroups.com] On Behalf Of James Andrews
> Sent: Wednesday, October 24, 2012 10:02 PM
> To: tokyohackerspace@googlegroups.com
> Subject: Re: [THS:20699] Akihabara Project
> I'm kind of wishing I hadn't missed yesterdays meeting.
> I for one would be thrilled to see the THS move to Akihabara. The
> time it takes to get to Shibuya from my house and navigate my way to
> the current location (nevermind the previous location) is a bit
> consuming. I always get lost trying to get to the right exit of
> Shibuya station.
> I like what I've read. Here are my comments. I am just going to kind
> of let them spew out. Hopefully it'll be coherent and I won't sound
> like an ass.
> Classes and workshops. I have noticed that most of the
> classes/workshops that are offered are often pay when you show. I
> don't know what the THS's luck has been, but when I ran meetup groups
> I'd get 10 people say they were going and 3 people showing up. Has
> there been any talk about making some classes/workshops prepay so that
> you have a better idea of who's really going to show up?
> Possible idea to help raise funds.
> 1) I have not played with 3D printing technology, but THS could get a
> 3D printer and offer the printed out parts for 3D printers for others
> to make at a price a little above the cost of manufacturing. Order
> comes in, someone prints the parts, order is shipped out. Just a
> thought.
> 2) Once THS has THS kits/projects that are sold on THS shop why not
> see if we can get some or at least one of the retailers in Akihabara
> to carry them. This would help with fundraising and give THS some
> visibility within the local community.
> 3) Merch. Do you think folks from other hackerspaces would be
> interested in a THS t-shirt or something else with a THS logo on it?
> 4) While everyone and their brother seems to be doing one, why not a
> Kickstarter or Indigogo campaign. Could go for something small $5k or
> such to help get equipment that the THS needs.
> Website
> I know there was a meeting to discuss the website. I wasn't sure if
> it was open to non members, and even if it was, I was real sick that
> day so I wasn't going anywhere. That said I'd like to know what was
> discussed what direction the website may go in. I am hoping within
> the next month or so to pay for 3 month membership, if I can make that
> happen I'd be interested in helping out in that department, since
> that's what I've been doing for the last 15 years (with a high
> concentration in ecommerce ie: webshops). One thing that I'd like to
> see with the website is it be responsive to mobile vs non-mobile.
> (something I am able to help with). Tying this into the discussion is
> more the shop. I noticed that there's all kind of stuff that aren't
> really purchases of items. I think there should be a better way to
> ask for donations other than using the shop. Like a generic paypal
> donation button, and when donations are needed posting a blog post
> asking to donate rather than navigate a shop. I'm sure you had your
> reasons for doing it the way it is, but it seems very cluttered. Also
> I think products should be listed and described in both english and in
> Japanese.
> If I think of more I'll throw it into this thread, but that's all I
> have for now.
> James
> --
> You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups
> "TokyoHackerSpace" group.
> To post to this group, send email to tokyohackerspace@googlegroups.com.
> To unsubscribe from this group, send email to
> tokyohackerspace+unsubscribe@googlegroups.com.
> For more options, visit this group at
> http://groups.google.com/group/tokyohackerspace?hl=en.
> Getting the local shops to pick up merchandise will probably be difficult.
> It's actually a pain in the ass to go through retail distribution since the
> paperwork and peripheral stuff is onerous. And of course, we'd probably need
> an array of products since merchandisers try to limit the number of
> suppliers they deal with. They usually wouldn't stock one or two different
> items from a supplier unless there was something really special about it.
> I'd say it's possible, but probably not likely in the short term.
Which brings me back to the THS gadget vending machine.....
How much rent does a vending machine space cost in Akihabara?
And how much does a used vending machine cost?
> Getting the local shops to pick up merchandise will probably be difficult.
> It's actually a pain in the ass to go through retail distribution since the
> paperwork and peripheral stuff is onerous. And of course, we'd probably need
> an array of products since merchandisers try to limit the number of
> suppliers they deal with. They usually wouldn't stock one or two different
> items from a supplier unless there was something really special about it.
> I'd say it's possible, but probably not likely in the short term.
What about one of those e-Boxs I would guess we could keep one of those filled?
> What about one of those e-Boxs I would guess we could keep one of those
filled?
> Also Akihabara hacker space would be awesome!!!!
I think I'd prefer to do the flea market. Akihabara folks would get to meet
us strange gaijin up close and personal. I'm really looking forward to that.
As for a space in Akihabara, I totally agree!
> -----Original Message-----
> From: tokyohackerspace@googlegroups.com
> [mailto:tokyohackerspace@googlegroups.com] On Behalf Of Nava Whiteford
> Sent: Wednesday, October 24, 2012 10:55 PM
> To: tokyohackerspace@googlegroups.com
> Subject: Re: [THS:20702] Akihabara Project
> > Getting the local shops to pick up merchandise will probably be
difficult.
> > It's actually a pain in the ass to go through retail distribution since
the
> > paperwork and peripheral stuff is onerous. And of course, we'd probably
need
> > an array of products since merchandisers try to limit the number of
> > suppliers they deal with. They usually wouldn't stock one or two
different
> > items from a supplier unless there was something really special about
it.
> > I'd say it's possible, but probably not likely in the short term.
> What about one of those e-Boxs I would guess we could keep one of those
filled?
> Also Akihabara hacker space would be awesome!!!!
> --
> You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups
> "TokyoHackerSpace" group.
> To post to this group, send email to tokyohackerspace@googlegroups.com.
> To unsubscribe from this group, send email to
> tokyohackerspace+unsubscribe@googlegroups.com.
> For more options, visit this group at
> http://groups.google.com/group/tokyohackerspace?hl=en.
Why not just use paypal for as the card processor? Paypal can be set
up in a slew of methods. The most familiar is the one where you have
to log into paypal, but you can also use them as a processor where the
customer doesn't have an account. Getting a processing account for a
non business is not an easy task, you need bank accounts, proof that
you're a legitimate business. Lots of messy business type things.
Paypal (or google checkout though I've never used them) is probably
the most easy way to process credit cards at this stage.
On Wed, Oct 24, 2012 at 10:25 PM, Akiba <ch...@freaklabs.org> wrote:
> Hi James.
> Thanks for the comments. Regarding fundraising, we're definitely going to do
> a Kickstarter. The timeframe will probably depend on everyone's schedules
> since things will probably get busy soon. I don't think it'd generally be
> much of a problem, especially since we have the capability of providing
> interesting rewards, both from our own designs and from Akihabara.
> For the webshop, I'll be setting that up soon. We'll be using a packaged
> shopping cart solution, most likely zencart or magento. I need to see what
> the credit card processing options are in Japan. Most likely we'll initially
> go through a payment processor in the US. I'll be working all that out soon
> to get the site up.
> As for the rest, the membership thing can be tied to the webshop, especially
> since both support recurring payments. Donations normally are not a huge
> part of the income we receive other than when the tsunami occurred. I think
> what MRE put up is probably fine and I doubt it will be much of a factor. I
> think we'd rather get money from selling goods, membership dues, or
> fundraising events than collecting handouts anyways.
> Getting the local shops to pick up merchandise will probably be difficult.
> It's actually a pain in the ass to go through retail distribution since the
> paperwork and peripheral stuff is onerous. And of course, we'd probably need
> an array of products since merchandisers try to limit the number of
> suppliers they deal with. They usually wouldn't stock one or two different
> items from a supplier unless there was something really special about it.
> I'd say it's possible, but probably not likely in the short term.
> Anyways, there's definitely a lot of stuff to think about to make the move
> happen and make it sustainable, but now that it's going to happen, I keep on
> thinking that we should have done it sooner.
>> -----Original Message-----
>> From: tokyohackerspace@googlegroups.com
>> [mailto:tokyohackerspace@googlegroups.com] On Behalf Of James Andrews
>> Sent: Wednesday, October 24, 2012 10:02 PM
>> To: tokyohackerspace@googlegroups.com
>> Subject: Re: [THS:20699] Akihabara Project
>> I'm kind of wishing I hadn't missed yesterdays meeting.
>> I for one would be thrilled to see the THS move to Akihabara. The
>> time it takes to get to Shibuya from my house and navigate my way to
>> the current location (nevermind the previous location) is a bit
>> consuming. I always get lost trying to get to the right exit of
>> Shibuya station.
>> I like what I've read. Here are my comments. I am just going to kind
>> of let them spew out. Hopefully it'll be coherent and I won't sound
>> like an ass.
>> Classes and workshops. I have noticed that most of the
>> classes/workshops that are offered are often pay when you show. I
>> don't know what the THS's luck has been, but when I ran meetup groups
>> I'd get 10 people say they were going and 3 people showing up. Has
>> there been any talk about making some classes/workshops prepay so that
>> you have a better idea of who's really going to show up?
>> Possible idea to help raise funds.
>> 1) I have not played with 3D printing technology, but THS could get a
>> 3D printer and offer the printed out parts for 3D printers for others
>> to make at a price a little above the cost of manufacturing. Order
>> comes in, someone prints the parts, order is shipped out. Just a
>> thought.
>> 2) Once THS has THS kits/projects that are sold on THS shop why not
>> see if we can get some or at least one of the retailers in Akihabara
>> to carry them. This would help with fundraising and give THS some
>> visibility within the local community.
>> 3) Merch. Do you think folks from other hackerspaces would be
>> interested in a THS t-shirt or something else with a THS logo on it?
>> 4) While everyone and their brother seems to be doing one, why not a
>> Kickstarter or Indigogo campaign. Could go for something small $5k or
>> such to help get equipment that the THS needs.
>> Website
>> I know there was a meeting to discuss the website. I wasn't sure if
>> it was open to non members, and even if it was, I was real sick that
>> day so I wasn't going anywhere. That said I'd like to know what was
>> discussed what direction the website may go in. I am hoping within
>> the next month or so to pay for 3 month membership, if I can make that
>> happen I'd be interested in helping out in that department, since
>> that's what I've been doing for the last 15 years (with a high
>> concentration in ecommerce ie: webshops). One thing that I'd like to
>> see with the website is it be responsive to mobile vs non-mobile.
>> (something I am able to help with). Tying this into the discussion is
>> more the shop. I noticed that there's all kind of stuff that aren't
>> really purchases of items. I think there should be a better way to
>> ask for donations other than using the shop. Like a generic paypal
>> donation button, and when donations are needed posting a blog post
>> asking to donate rather than navigate a shop. I'm sure you had your
>> reasons for doing it the way it is, but it seems very cluttered. Also
>> I think products should be listed and described in both english and in
>> Japanese.
>> If I think of more I'll throw it into this thread, but that's all I
>> have for now.
>> James
>> --
>> You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups
>> "TokyoHackerSpace" group.
>> To post to this group, send email to tokyohackerspace@googlegroups.com.
>> To unsubscribe from this group, send email to
>> tokyohackerspace+unsubscribe@googlegroups.com.
>> For more options, visit this group at
>> http://groups.google.com/group/tokyohackerspace?hl=en.
> --
> You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups "TokyoHackerSpace" group.
> To post to this group, send email to tokyohackerspace@googlegroups.com.
> To unsubscribe from this group, send email to tokyohackerspace+unsubscribe@googlegroups.com.
> For more options, visit this group at http://groups.google.com/group/tokyohackerspace?hl=en.
Well I for one am more than willing to get hands on and get another 3D
printer [reprap] built...
The only issue I have with access is literally down to being reliant on a
battery eating smartphone for directions or needing a guide to find new
places
otherwise I am out there and lost...
I also have a couple of "Want to do" items that need the application of a
hackerspace(or at least I think so) and the result designs can remain THS
materials ...
I definitely need help to make them happen
fabbing what I have in mind will need a slightly oversized 3D printer or
someone with a better grasp of how to shape 3D parts with SECC sheet
material or something hardened that can be used for base sheeting at least
for mechanical consideration
so far I have been trying to mock together a prototype using cardboard...
and yes I know I need better materials, I also need to build a better
prototype to discuss any revisions
as for hackwrspace placement... akasaka and akihabara are away from the
deadzone mentioned ? or in the heart of it?
Yeah, I'm thinking to have corporate status in the US which allows for a
corporate bank account. After that, then we can do Paypal Website Payments
Pro as well as the Paypal Express Checkout. Unfortunately it's only for the
US, and kinda for the UK from what I understand.
> -----Original Message-----
> From: tokyohackerspace@googlegroups.com
> [mailto:tokyohackerspace@googlegroups.com] On Behalf Of James Andrews
> Sent: Thursday, October 25, 2012 12:01 AM
> To: tokyohackerspace@googlegroups.com
> Subject: Re: [THS:20704] Akihabara Project
> Why not just use paypal for as the card processor? Paypal can be set
> up in a slew of methods. The most familiar is the one where you have
> to log into paypal, but you can also use them as a processor where the
> customer doesn't have an account. Getting a processing account for a
> non business is not an easy task, you need bank accounts, proof that
> you're a legitimate business. Lots of messy business type things.
> Paypal (or google checkout though I've never used them) is probably
> the most easy way to process credit cards at this stage.
> James
> On Wed, Oct 24, 2012 at 10:25 PM, Akiba <ch...@freaklabs.org> wrote:
> > Hi James.
> > Thanks for the comments. Regarding fundraising, we're definitely going
to
> do
> > a Kickstarter. The timeframe will probably depend on everyone's
schedules
> > since things will probably get busy soon. I don't think it'd generally
be
> > much of a problem, especially since we have the capability of providing
> > interesting rewards, both from our own designs and from Akihabara.
> > For the webshop, I'll be setting that up soon. We'll be using a packaged
> > shopping cart solution, most likely zencart or magento. I need to see
what
> > the credit card processing options are in Japan. Most likely we'll
initially
> > go through a payment processor in the US. I'll be working all that out
soon
> > to get the site up.
> > As for the rest, the membership thing can be tied to the webshop,
especially
> > since both support recurring payments. Donations normally are not a huge
> > part of the income we receive other than when the tsunami occurred. I
think
> > what MRE put up is probably fine and I doubt it will be much of a
factor.
> I
> > think we'd rather get money from selling goods, membership dues, or
> > fundraising events than collecting handouts anyways.
> > Getting the local shops to pick up merchandise will probably be
difficult.
> > It's actually a pain in the ass to go through retail distribution since
the
> > paperwork and peripheral stuff is onerous. And of course, we'd probably
need
> > an array of products since merchandisers try to limit the number of
> > suppliers they deal with. They usually wouldn't stock one or two
different
> > items from a supplier unless there was something really special about
it.
> > I'd say it's possible, but probably not likely in the short term.
> > Anyways, there's definitely a lot of stuff to think about to make the
move
> > happen and make it sustainable, but now that it's going to happen, I
keep
> on
> > thinking that we should have done it sooner.
> >> -----Original Message-----
> >> From: tokyohackerspace@googlegroups.com
> >> [mailto:tokyohackerspace@googlegroups.com] On Behalf Of James Andrews
> >> Sent: Wednesday, October 24, 2012 10:02 PM
> >> To: tokyohackerspace@googlegroups.com
> >> Subject: Re: [THS:20699] Akihabara Project
> >> I'm kind of wishing I hadn't missed yesterdays meeting.
> >> I for one would be thrilled to see the THS move to Akihabara. The
> >> time it takes to get to Shibuya from my house and navigate my way to
> >> the current location (nevermind the previous location) is a bit
> >> consuming. I always get lost trying to get to the right exit of
> >> Shibuya station.
> >> I like what I've read. Here are my comments. I am just going to kind
> >> of let them spew out. Hopefully it'll be coherent and I won't sound
> >> like an ass.
> >> Classes and workshops. I have noticed that most of the
> >> classes/workshops that are offered are often pay when you show. I
> >> don't know what the THS's luck has been, but when I ran meetup groups
> >> I'd get 10 people say they were going and 3 people showing up. Has
> >> there been any talk about making some classes/workshops prepay so that
> >> you have a better idea of who's really going to show up?
> >> Possible idea to help raise funds.
> >> 1) I have not played with 3D printing technology, but THS could get a
> >> 3D printer and offer the printed out parts for 3D printers for others
> >> to make at a price a little above the cost of manufacturing. Order
> >> comes in, someone prints the parts, order is shipped out. Just a
> >> thought.
> >> 2) Once THS has THS kits/projects that are sold on THS shop why not
> >> see if we can get some or at least one of the retailers in Akihabara
> >> to carry them. This would help with fundraising and give THS some
> >> visibility within the local community.
> >> 3) Merch. Do you think folks from other hackerspaces would be
> >> interested in a THS t-shirt or something else with a THS logo on it?
> >> 4) While everyone and their brother seems to be doing one, why not a
> >> Kickstarter or Indigogo campaign. Could go for something small $5k or
> >> such to help get equipment that the THS needs.
> >> Website
> >> I know there was a meeting to discuss the website. I wasn't sure if
> >> it was open to non members, and even if it was, I was real sick that
> >> day so I wasn't going anywhere. That said I'd like to know what was
> >> discussed what direction the website may go in. I am hoping within
> >> the next month or so to pay for 3 month membership, if I can make that
> >> happen I'd be interested in helping out in that department, since
> >> that's what I've been doing for the last 15 years (with a high
> >> concentration in ecommerce ie: webshops). One thing that I'd like to
> >> see with the website is it be responsive to mobile vs non-mobile.
> >> (something I am able to help with). Tying this into the discussion is
> >> more the shop. I noticed that there's all kind of stuff that aren't
> >> really purchases of items. I think there should be a better way to
> >> ask for donations other than using the shop. Like a generic paypal
> >> donation button, and when donations are needed posting a blog post
> >> asking to donate rather than navigate a shop. I'm sure you had your
> >> reasons for doing it the way it is, but it seems very cluttered. Also
> >> I think products should be listed and described in both english and in
> >> Japanese.
> >> If I think of more I'll throw it into this thread, but that's all I
> >> have for now.
> >> James
> >> --
> >> You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google
Groups
> >> "TokyoHackerSpace" group.
> >> To post to this group, send email to tokyohackerspace@googlegroups.com.
> >> To unsubscribe from this group, send email to
> >> tokyohackerspace+unsubscribe@googlegroups.com.
> >> For more options, visit this group at
> >> http://groups.google.com/group/tokyohackerspace?hl=en.
> > --
> > You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google
Groups
> "TokyoHackerSpace" group.
> > To post to this group, send email to tokyohackerspace@googlegroups.com.
> > To unsubscribe from this group, send email to
> tokyohackerspace+unsubscribe@googlegroups.com.
> > For more options, visit this group at
> http://groups.google.com/group/tokyohackerspace?hl=en.
> --
> You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups
> "TokyoHackerSpace" group.
> To post to this group, send email to tokyohackerspace@googlegroups.com.
> To unsubscribe from this group, send email to
> tokyohackerspace+unsubscribe@googlegroups.com.
> For more options, visit this group at
> http://groups.google.com/group/tokyohackerspace?hl=en.
No, the area we'd be at is a few blocks away from prime akihabara. That
would be where all the electronics shops are. Luckily, a few blocks away in
Tokyo means about a five minute walk. If we get soto-kanda 6-chome, we'd be
right next to the art gallery which would be great. I want to try and build
strong relationships with them. They're also peripherally related to fabcafe
which we are pretty tight with. If we can close the loop, then we'd have a
big in to additional space, galleries, and their fab shop in the basement.
From: tokyohackerspace@googlegroups.com
[mailto:tokyohackerspace@googlegroups.com] On Behalf Of AbH Belxjander
Draconis Serechai
Sent: Thursday, October 25, 2012 12:08 AM
To: tokyohackerspace@googlegroups.com
Subject: Re: [THS:20705] Akihabara Project
Well I for one am more than willing to get hands on and get another 3D
printer [reprap] built...
The only issue I have with access is literally down to being reliant on a
battery eating smartphone for directions or needing a guide to find new
places
otherwise I am out there and lost...
I also have a couple of "Want to do" items that need the application of a
hackerspace(or at least I think so) and the result designs can remain THS
materials ...
I definitely need help to make them happen
fabbing what I have in mind will need a slightly oversized 3D printer or
someone with a better grasp of how to shape 3D parts with SECC sheet
material or something hardened that can be used for base sheeting at least
for mechanical consideration
so far I have been trying to mock together a prototype using cardboard...
and yes I know I need better materials, I also need to build a better
prototype to discuss any revisions
as for hackwrspace placement... akasaka and akihabara are away from the
deadzone mentioned ? or in the heart of it?
Jeremy
-- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups
"TokyoHackerSpace" group.
To post to this group, send email to tokyohackerspace@googlegroups.com.
To unsubscribe from this group, send email to
tokyohackerspace+unsubscribe@googlegroups.com.
For more options, visit this group at
http://groups.google.com/group/tokyohackerspace?hl=en.
So would you start as a generic corporation or a 501.3c corporation?
Do you think that would help in getting nonprofit status in Japan more
easily if THS already had it in the US?
On Thu, Oct 25, 2012 at 12:12 AM, Akiba <ch...@freaklabs.org> wrote:
> Yeah, I'm thinking to have corporate status in the US which allows for a
> corporate bank account. After that, then we can do Paypal Website Payments
> Pro as well as the Paypal Express Checkout. Unfortunately it's only for the
> US, and kinda for the UK from what I understand.
>> -----Original Message-----
>> From: tokyohackerspace@googlegroups.com
>> [mailto:tokyohackerspace@googlegroups.com] On Behalf Of James Andrews
>> Sent: Thursday, October 25, 2012 12:01 AM
>> To: tokyohackerspace@googlegroups.com
>> Subject: Re: [THS:20704] Akihabara Project
>> Why not just use paypal for as the card processor? Paypal can be set
>> up in a slew of methods. The most familiar is the one where you have
>> to log into paypal, but you can also use them as a processor where the
>> customer doesn't have an account. Getting a processing account for a
>> non business is not an easy task, you need bank accounts, proof that
>> you're a legitimate business. Lots of messy business type things.
>> Paypal (or google checkout though I've never used them) is probably
>> the most easy way to process credit cards at this stage.
>> James
>> On Wed, Oct 24, 2012 at 10:25 PM, Akiba <ch...@freaklabs.org> wrote:
>> > Hi James.
>> > Thanks for the comments. Regarding fundraising, we're definitely going
> to
>> do
>> > a Kickstarter. The timeframe will probably depend on everyone's
> schedules
>> > since things will probably get busy soon. I don't think it'd generally
> be
>> > much of a problem, especially since we have the capability of providing
>> > interesting rewards, both from our own designs and from Akihabara.
>> > For the webshop, I'll be setting that up soon. We'll be using a packaged
>> > shopping cart solution, most likely zencart or magento. I need to see
> what
>> > the credit card processing options are in Japan. Most likely we'll
> initially
>> > go through a payment processor in the US. I'll be working all that out
> soon
>> > to get the site up.
>> > As for the rest, the membership thing can be tied to the webshop,
> especially
>> > since both support recurring payments. Donations normally are not a huge
>> > part of the income we receive other than when the tsunami occurred. I
> think
>> > what MRE put up is probably fine and I doubt it will be much of a
> factor.
>> I
>> > think we'd rather get money from selling goods, membership dues, or
>> > fundraising events than collecting handouts anyways.
>> > Getting the local shops to pick up merchandise will probably be
> difficult.
>> > It's actually a pain in the ass to go through retail distribution since
> the
>> > paperwork and peripheral stuff is onerous. And of course, we'd probably
> need
>> > an array of products since merchandisers try to limit the number of
>> > suppliers they deal with. They usually wouldn't stock one or two
> different
>> > items from a supplier unless there was something really special about
> it.
>> > I'd say it's possible, but probably not likely in the short term.
>> > Anyways, there's definitely a lot of stuff to think about to make the
> move
>> > happen and make it sustainable, but now that it's going to happen, I
> keep
>> on
>> > thinking that we should have done it sooner.
>> >> -----Original Message-----
>> >> From: tokyohackerspace@googlegroups.com
>> >> [mailto:tokyohackerspace@googlegroups.com] On Behalf Of James Andrews
>> >> Sent: Wednesday, October 24, 2012 10:02 PM
>> >> To: tokyohackerspace@googlegroups.com
>> >> Subject: Re: [THS:20699] Akihabara Project
>> >> I'm kind of wishing I hadn't missed yesterdays meeting.
>> >> I for one would be thrilled to see the THS move to Akihabara. The
>> >> time it takes to get to Shibuya from my house and navigate my way to
>> >> the current location (nevermind the previous location) is a bit
>> >> consuming. I always get lost trying to get to the right exit of
>> >> Shibuya station.
>> >> I like what I've read. Here are my comments. I am just going to kind
>> >> of let them spew out. Hopefully it'll be coherent and I won't sound
>> >> like an ass.
>> >> Classes and workshops. I have noticed that most of the
>> >> classes/workshops that are offered are often pay when you show. I
>> >> don't know what the THS's luck has been, but when I ran meetup groups
>> >> I'd get 10 people say they were going and 3 people showing up. Has
>> >> there been any talk about making some classes/workshops prepay so that
>> >> you have a better idea of who's really going to show up?
>> >> Possible idea to help raise funds.
>> >> 1) I have not played with 3D printing technology, but THS could get a
>> >> 3D printer and offer the printed out parts for 3D printers for others
>> >> to make at a price a little above the cost of manufacturing. Order
>> >> comes in, someone prints the parts, order is shipped out. Just a
>> >> thought.
>> >> 2) Once THS has THS kits/projects that are sold on THS shop why not
>> >> see if we can get some or at least one of the retailers in Akihabara
>> >> to carry them. This would help with fundraising and give THS some
>> >> visibility within the local community.
>> >> 3) Merch. Do you think folks from other hackerspaces would be
>> >> interested in a THS t-shirt or something else with a THS logo on it?
>> >> 4) While everyone and their brother seems to be doing one, why not a
>> >> Kickstarter or Indigogo campaign. Could go for something small $5k or
>> >> such to help get equipment that the THS needs.
>> >> Website
>> >> I know there was a meeting to discuss the website. I wasn't sure if
>> >> it was open to non members, and even if it was, I was real sick that
>> >> day so I wasn't going anywhere. That said I'd like to know what was
>> >> discussed what direction the website may go in. I am hoping within
>> >> the next month or so to pay for 3 month membership, if I can make that
>> >> happen I'd be interested in helping out in that department, since
>> >> that's what I've been doing for the last 15 years (with a high
>> >> concentration in ecommerce ie: webshops). One thing that I'd like to
>> >> see with the website is it be responsive to mobile vs non-mobile.
>> >> (something I am able to help with). Tying this into the discussion is
>> >> more the shop. I noticed that there's all kind of stuff that aren't
>> >> really purchases of items. I think there should be a better way to
>> >> ask for donations other than using the shop. Like a generic paypal
>> >> donation button, and when donations are needed posting a blog post
>> >> asking to donate rather than navigate a shop. I'm sure you had your
>> >> reasons for doing it the way it is, but it seems very cluttered. Also
>> >> I think products should be listed and described in both english and in
>> >> Japanese.
>> >> If I think of more I'll throw it into this thread, but that's all I
>> >> have for now.
>> >> James
>> >> --
>> >> You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google
> Groups
>> >> "TokyoHackerSpace" group.
>> >> To post to this group, send email to tokyohackerspace@googlegroups.com.
>> >> To unsubscribe from this group, send email to
>> >> tokyohackerspace+unsubscribe@googlegroups.com.
>> >> For more options, visit this group at
>> >> http://groups.google.com/group/tokyohackerspace?hl=en.
>> > --
>> > You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google
> Groups
>> "TokyoHackerSpace" group.
>> > To post to this group, send email to tokyohackerspace@googlegroups.com.
>> > To unsubscribe from this group, send email to
>> tokyohackerspace+unsubscribe@googlegroups.com.
>> > For more options, visit this group at
>> http://groups.google.com/group/tokyohackerspace?hl=en.
>> --
>> You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups
>> "TokyoHackerSpace" group.
>> To post to this group, send email to tokyohackerspace@googlegroups.com.
>> To unsubscribe from this group, send email to
>> tokyohackerspace+unsubscribe@googlegroups.com.
>> For more options, visit this group at
>> http://groups.google.com/group/tokyohackerspace?hl=en.
> --
> You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups "TokyoHackerSpace" group.
> To post to this group, send email to tokyohackerspace@googlegroups.com.
> To unsubscribe from this group, send email to tokyohackerspace+unsubscribe@googlegroups.com.
> For more options, visit this group at http://groups.google.com/group/tokyohackerspace?hl=en.
I need to study more about NPO status in Japan but from what I understand
it's not so beneficial. At least not as tax-worthy as the US. 501C3 status
might not help us too much since that would mostly affect US taxes. Its
still an open discussion but we'll need to take care of it soon.
> -----Original Message-----
> From: tokyohackerspace@googlegroups.com
> [mailto:tokyohackerspace@googlegroups.com] On Behalf Of James Andrews
> Sent: Thursday, October 25, 2012 12:17 AM
> To: tokyohackerspace@googlegroups.com
> Subject: Re: [THS:20708] Akihabara Project
> So would you start as a generic corporation or a 501.3c corporation?
> Do you think that would help in getting nonprofit status in Japan more
> easily if THS already had it in the US?
> james
> On Thu, Oct 25, 2012 at 12:12 AM, Akiba <ch...@freaklabs.org> wrote:
> > Yeah, I'm thinking to have corporate status in the US which allows for a
> > corporate bank account. After that, then we can do Paypal Website
Payments
> > Pro as well as the Paypal Express Checkout. Unfortunately it's only for
the
> > US, and kinda for the UK from what I understand.
> >> -----Original Message-----
> >> From: tokyohackerspace@googlegroups.com
> >> [mailto:tokyohackerspace@googlegroups.com] On Behalf Of James Andrews
> >> Sent: Thursday, October 25, 2012 12:01 AM
> >> To: tokyohackerspace@googlegroups.com
> >> Subject: Re: [THS:20704] Akihabara Project
> >> Why not just use paypal for as the card processor? Paypal can be set
> >> up in a slew of methods. The most familiar is the one where you have
> >> to log into paypal, but you can also use them as a processor where the
> >> customer doesn't have an account. Getting a processing account for a
> >> non business is not an easy task, you need bank accounts, proof that
> >> you're a legitimate business. Lots of messy business type things.
> >> Paypal (or google checkout though I've never used them) is probably
> >> the most easy way to process credit cards at this stage.
> >> James
> >> On Wed, Oct 24, 2012 at 10:25 PM, Akiba <ch...@freaklabs.org> wrote:
> >> > Hi James.
> >> > Thanks for the comments. Regarding fundraising, we're definitely
going
> > to
> >> do
> >> > a Kickstarter. The timeframe will probably depend on everyone's
> > schedules
> >> > since things will probably get busy soon. I don't think it'd
generally
> > be
> >> > much of a problem, especially since we have the capability of
providing
> >> > interesting rewards, both from our own designs and from Akihabara.
> >> > For the webshop, I'll be setting that up soon. We'll be using a
packaged
> >> > shopping cart solution, most likely zencart or magento. I need to see
> > what
> >> > the credit card processing options are in Japan. Most likely we'll
> > initially
> >> > go through a payment processor in the US. I'll be working all that
out
> > soon
> >> > to get the site up.
> >> > As for the rest, the membership thing can be tied to the webshop,
> > especially
> >> > since both support recurring payments. Donations normally are not a
huge
> >> > part of the income we receive other than when the tsunami occurred. I
> > think
> >> > what MRE put up is probably fine and I doubt it will be much of a
> > factor.
> >> I
> >> > think we'd rather get money from selling goods, membership dues, or
> >> > fundraising events than collecting handouts anyways.
> >> > Getting the local shops to pick up merchandise will probably be
> > difficult.
> >> > It's actually a pain in the ass to go through retail distribution
since
> > the
> >> > paperwork and peripheral stuff is onerous. And of course, we'd
probably
> > need
> >> > an array of products since merchandisers try to limit the number of
> >> > suppliers they deal with. They usually wouldn't stock one or two
> > different
> >> > items from a supplier unless there was something really special about
> > it.
> >> > I'd say it's possible, but probably not likely in the short term.
> >> > Anyways, there's definitely a lot of stuff to think about to make the
> > move
> >> > happen and make it sustainable, but now that it's going to happen, I
> > keep
> >> on
> >> > thinking that we should have done it sooner.
> >> >> -----Original Message-----
> >> >> From: tokyohackerspace@googlegroups.com
> >> >> [mailto:tokyohackerspace@googlegroups.com] On Behalf Of James
Andrews
> >> >> Sent: Wednesday, October 24, 2012 10:02 PM
> >> >> To: tokyohackerspace@googlegroups.com
> >> >> Subject: Re: [THS:20699] Akihabara Project
> >> >> I'm kind of wishing I hadn't missed yesterdays meeting.
> >> >> I for one would be thrilled to see the THS move to Akihabara. The
> >> >> time it takes to get to Shibuya from my house and navigate my way to
> >> >> the current location (nevermind the previous location) is a bit
> >> >> consuming. I always get lost trying to get to the right exit of
> >> >> Shibuya station.
> >> >> I like what I've read. Here are my comments. I am just going to
kind
> >> >> of let them spew out. Hopefully it'll be coherent and I won't sound
> >> >> like an ass.
> >> >> Classes and workshops. I have noticed that most of the
> >> >> classes/workshops that are offered are often pay when you show. I
> >> >> don't know what the THS's luck has been, but when I ran meetup
groups
> >> >> I'd get 10 people say they were going and 3 people showing up. Has
> >> >> there been any talk about making some classes/workshops prepay so
that
> >> >> you have a better idea of who's really going to show up?
> >> >> Possible idea to help raise funds.
> >> >> 1) I have not played with 3D printing technology, but THS could get
a
> >> >> 3D printer and offer the printed out parts for 3D printers for
others
> >> >> to make at a price a little above the cost of manufacturing. Order
> >> >> comes in, someone prints the parts, order is shipped out. Just a
> >> >> thought.
> >> >> 2) Once THS has THS kits/projects that are sold on THS shop why not
> >> >> see if we can get some or at least one of the retailers in Akihabara
> >> >> to carry them. This would help with fundraising and give THS some
> >> >> visibility within the local community.
> >> >> 3) Merch. Do you think folks from other hackerspaces would be
> >> >> interested in a THS t-shirt or something else with a THS logo on it?
> >> >> 4) While everyone and their brother seems to be doing one, why not a
> >> >> Kickstarter or Indigogo campaign. Could go for something small $5k
or
> >> >> such to help get equipment that the THS needs.
> >> >> Website
> >> >> I know there was a meeting to discuss the website. I wasn't sure if
> >> >> it was open to non members, and even if it was, I was real sick that
> >> >> day so I wasn't going anywhere. That said I'd like to know what was
> >> >> discussed what direction the website may go in. I am hoping within
> >> >> the next month or so to pay for 3 month membership, if I can make
that
> >> >> happen I'd be interested in helping out in that department, since
> >> >> that's what I've been doing for the last 15 years (with a high
> >> >> concentration in ecommerce ie: webshops). One thing that I'd like
to
> >> >> see with the website is it be responsive to mobile vs non-mobile.
> >> >> (something I am able to help with). Tying this into the discussion
is
> >> >> more the shop. I noticed that there's all kind of stuff that aren't
> >> >> really purchases of items. I think there should be a better way to
> >> >> ask for donations other than using the shop. Like a generic paypal
> >> >> donation button, and when donations are needed posting a blog post
> >> >> asking to donate rather than navigate a shop. I'm sure you had your
> >> >> reasons for doing it the way it is, but it seems very cluttered.
Also
> >> >> I think products should be listed and described in both english and
in
> >> >> Japanese.
> >> >> If I think of more I'll throw it into this thread, but that's all I
> >> >> have for now.
> >> >> James
> >> >> --
> >> >> You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google
> > Groups
> >> >> "TokyoHackerSpace" group.
> >> >> To post to this group, send email to
tokyohackerspace@googlegroups.com.
> >> >> To unsubscribe from this group, send email to
> >> >> tokyohackerspace+unsubscribe@googlegroups.com.
> >> >> For more options, visit this group at
> >> >> http://groups.google.com/group/tokyohackerspace?hl=en.
> >> > --
> >> > You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google
> > Groups
> >> "TokyoHackerSpace" group.
> >> > To post to this group, send email to
> >> --
> >> You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google
Groups
> >> "TokyoHackerSpace" group.
> >> To post to this group, send email to tokyohackerspace@googlegroups.com.
> >> To unsubscribe from this group, send email to
> >> tokyohackerspace+unsubscribe@googlegroups.com.
I think it would be easier to do a GK (no need to do a KK) GK easier
and less tax issue problems
I have a terrific friend who's business is to help gaijin set up
companies in japan. I recommend she meet with the board and Akiba and
discuss the options.
NPO status does not have a great tax benefit and is harder to do.
Plus what we can do with money we raise is more limited.
On Wed, Oct 24, 2012 at 5:19 AM, Akiba <ch...@freaklabs.org> wrote:
> I need to study more about NPO status in Japan but from what I understand
> it's not so beneficial. At least not as tax-worthy as the US. 501C3 status
> might not help us too much since that would mostly affect US taxes. Its
> still an open discussion but we'll need to take care of it soon.
>> -----Original Message-----
>> From: tokyohackerspace@googlegroups.com
>> [mailto:tokyohackerspace@googlegroups.com] On Behalf Of James Andrews
>> Sent: Thursday, October 25, 2012 12:17 AM
>> To: tokyohackerspace@googlegroups.com
>> Subject: Re: [THS:20708] Akihabara Project
>> So would you start as a generic corporation or a 501.3c corporation?
>> Do you think that would help in getting nonprofit status in Japan more
>> easily if THS already had it in the US?
>> james
>> On Thu, Oct 25, 2012 at 12:12 AM, Akiba <ch...@freaklabs.org> wrote:
>> > Yeah, I'm thinking to have corporate status in the US which allows for a
>> > corporate bank account. After that, then we can do Paypal Website
> Payments
>> > Pro as well as the Paypal Express Checkout. Unfortunately it's only for
> the
>> > US, and kinda for the UK from what I understand.
>> >> -----Original Message-----
>> >> From: tokyohackerspace@googlegroups.com
>> >> [mailto:tokyohackerspace@googlegroups.com] On Behalf Of James Andrews
>> >> Sent: Thursday, October 25, 2012 12:01 AM
>> >> To: tokyohackerspace@googlegroups.com
>> >> Subject: Re: [THS:20704] Akihabara Project
>> >> Why not just use paypal for as the card processor? Paypal can be set
>> >> up in a slew of methods. The most familiar is the one where you have
>> >> to log into paypal, but you can also use them as a processor where the
>> >> customer doesn't have an account. Getting a processing account for a
>> >> non business is not an easy task, you need bank accounts, proof that
>> >> you're a legitimate business. Lots of messy business type things.
>> >> Paypal (or google checkout though I've never used them) is probably
>> >> the most easy way to process credit cards at this stage.
>> >> James
>> >> On Wed, Oct 24, 2012 at 10:25 PM, Akiba <ch...@freaklabs.org> wrote:
>> >> > Hi James.
>> >> > Thanks for the comments. Regarding fundraising, we're definitely
> going
>> > to
>> >> do
>> >> > a Kickstarter. The timeframe will probably depend on everyone's
>> > schedules
>> >> > since things will probably get busy soon. I don't think it'd
> generally
>> > be
>> >> > much of a problem, especially since we have the capability of
> providing
>> >> > interesting rewards, both from our own designs and from Akihabara.
>> >> > For the webshop, I'll be setting that up soon. We'll be using a
> packaged
>> >> > shopping cart solution, most likely zencart or magento. I need to see
>> > what
>> >> > the credit card processing options are in Japan. Most likely we'll
>> > initially
>> >> > go through a payment processor in the US. I'll be working all that
> out
>> > soon
>> >> > to get the site up.
>> >> > As for the rest, the membership thing can be tied to the webshop,
>> > especially
>> >> > since both support recurring payments. Donations normally are not a
> huge
>> >> > part of the income we receive other than when the tsunami occurred. I
>> > think
>> >> > what MRE put up is probably fine and I doubt it will be much of a
>> > factor.
>> >> I
>> >> > think we'd rather get money from selling goods, membership dues, or
>> >> > fundraising events than collecting handouts anyways.
>> >> > Getting the local shops to pick up merchandise will probably be
>> > difficult.
>> >> > It's actually a pain in the ass to go through retail distribution
> since
>> > the
>> >> > paperwork and peripheral stuff is onerous. And of course, we'd
> probably
>> > need
>> >> > an array of products since merchandisers try to limit the number of
>> >> > suppliers they deal with. They usually wouldn't stock one or two
>> > different
>> >> > items from a supplier unless there was something really special about
>> > it.
>> >> > I'd say it's possible, but probably not likely in the short term.
>> >> > Anyways, there's definitely a lot of stuff to think about to make the
>> > move
>> >> > happen and make it sustainable, but now that it's going to happen, I
>> > keep
>> >> on
>> >> > thinking that we should have done it sooner.
>> >> >> -----Original Message-----
>> >> >> From: tokyohackerspace@googlegroups.com
>> >> >> [mailto:tokyohackerspace@googlegroups.com] On Behalf Of James
> Andrews
>> >> >> Sent: Wednesday, October 24, 2012 10:02 PM
>> >> >> To: tokyohackerspace@googlegroups.com
>> >> >> Subject: Re: [THS:20699] Akihabara Project
>> >> >> I'm kind of wishing I hadn't missed yesterdays meeting.
>> >> >> I for one would be thrilled to see the THS move to Akihabara. The
>> >> >> time it takes to get to Shibuya from my house and navigate my way to
>> >> >> the current location (nevermind the previous location) is a bit
>> >> >> consuming. I always get lost trying to get to the right exit of
>> >> >> Shibuya station.
>> >> >> I like what I've read. Here are my comments. I am just going to
> kind
>> >> >> of let them spew out. Hopefully it'll be coherent and I won't sound
>> >> >> like an ass.
>> >> >> Classes and workshops. I have noticed that most of the
>> >> >> classes/workshops that are offered are often pay when you show. I
>> >> >> don't know what the THS's luck has been, but when I ran meetup
> groups
>> >> >> I'd get 10 people say they were going and 3 people showing up. Has
>> >> >> there been any talk about making some classes/workshops prepay so
> that
>> >> >> you have a better idea of who's really going to show up?
>> >> >> Possible idea to help raise funds.
>> >> >> 1) I have not played with 3D printing technology, but THS could get
> a
>> >> >> 3D printer and offer the printed out parts for 3D printers for
> others
>> >> >> to make at a price a little above the cost of manufacturing. Order
>> >> >> comes in, someone prints the parts, order is shipped out. Just a
>> >> >> thought.
>> >> >> 2) Once THS has THS kits/projects that are sold on THS shop why not
>> >> >> see if we can get some or at least one of the retailers in Akihabara
>> >> >> to carry them. This would help with fundraising and give THS some
>> >> >> visibility within the local community.
>> >> >> 3) Merch. Do you think folks from other hackerspaces would be
>> >> >> interested in a THS t-shirt or something else with a THS logo on it?
>> >> >> 4) While everyone and their brother seems to be doing one, why not a
>> >> >> Kickstarter or Indigogo campaign. Could go for something small $5k
> or
>> >> >> such to help get equipment that the THS needs.
>> >> >> Website
>> >> >> I know there was a meeting to discuss the website. I wasn't sure if
>> >> >> it was open to non members, and even if it was, I was real sick that
>> >> >> day so I wasn't going anywhere. That said I'd like to know what was
>> >> >> discussed what direction the website may go in. I am hoping within
>> >> >> the next month or so to pay for 3 month membership, if I can make
> that
>> >> >> happen I'd be interested in helping out in that department, since
>> >> >> that's what I've been doing for the last 15 years (with a high
>> >> >> concentration in ecommerce ie: webshops). One thing that I'd like
> to
>> >> >> see with the website is it be responsive to mobile vs non-mobile.
>> >> >> (something I am able to help with). Tying this into the discussion
> is
>> >> >> more the shop. I noticed that there's all kind of stuff that aren't
>> >> >> really purchases of items. I think there should be a better way to
>> >> >> ask for donations other than using the shop. Like a generic paypal
>> >> >> donation button, and when donations are needed posting a blog post
>> >> >> asking to donate rather than navigate a shop. I'm sure you had your
>> >> >> reasons for doing it the way it is, but it seems very cluttered.
> Also
>> >> >> I think products should be listed and described in both english and
> in
>> >> >> Japanese.
>> >> >> If I think of more I'll throw it into this thread, but that's all I
>> >> >> have for now.
>> >> >> James
>> >> >> --
>> >> >> You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google
>> > Groups
>> >> >> "TokyoHackerSpace" group.
>> >> >> To post to this group, send email to
> tokyohackerspace@googlegroups.com.
>> >> >> To unsubscribe from this group, send email to
>> >> >> tokyohackerspace+unsubscribe@googlegroups.com.
>> >> >> For more options, visit this group at
>> >> >> http://groups.google.com/group/tokyohackerspace?hl=en.
Yeah, lets talk to her. We should find out the cost and the benefits of a GK
vs KK. I also heard that GK (godo kaisha) is easier to maintain than a KK
but have no experience with it. When do you think we can meet up with her?
For those that are tuning in, GK is modeled after an LLC in the US. KK is
modeled after a corporation. Both provide liability protection, but in some
cases, I've heard companies preferring to work with KK's than GK's since the
KK is more known and better understood. This was a few years back when GK
was first introduced. Not sure about now.
> -----Original Message-----
> From: tokyohackerspace@googlegroups.com
> [mailto:tokyohackerspace@googlegroups.com] On Behalf Of lauren shannon
> Sent: Thursday, October 25, 2012 3:28 AM
> To: tokyohackerspace@googlegroups.com
> Subject: Re: [THS:20710] Akihabara Project
> I think it would be easier to do a GK (no need to do a KK) GK easier
> and less tax issue problems
> I have a terrific friend who's business is to help gaijin set up
> companies in japan. I recommend she meet with the board and Akiba and
> discuss the options.
> NPO status does not have a great tax benefit and is harder to do.
> Plus what we can do with money we raise is more limited.
> Lauren
> On Wed, Oct 24, 2012 at 5:19 AM, Akiba <ch...@freaklabs.org> wrote:
> > I need to study more about NPO status in Japan but from what I
understand
> > it's not so beneficial. At least not as tax-worthy as the US. 501C3
status
> > might not help us too much since that would mostly affect US taxes. Its
> > still an open discussion but we'll need to take care of it soon.
> >> -----Original Message-----
> >> From: tokyohackerspace@googlegroups.com
> >> [mailto:tokyohackerspace@googlegroups.com] On Behalf Of James Andrews
> >> Sent: Thursday, October 25, 2012 12:17 AM
> >> To: tokyohackerspace@googlegroups.com
> >> Subject: Re: [THS:20708] Akihabara Project
> >> So would you start as a generic corporation or a 501.3c corporation?
> >> Do you think that would help in getting nonprofit status in Japan more
> >> easily if THS already had it in the US?
> >> james
> >> On Thu, Oct 25, 2012 at 12:12 AM, Akiba <ch...@freaklabs.org> wrote:
> >> > Yeah, I'm thinking to have corporate status in the US which allows
for
> a
> >> > corporate bank account. After that, then we can do Paypal Website
> > Payments
> >> > Pro as well as the Paypal Express Checkout. Unfortunately it's only
for
> > the
> >> > US, and kinda for the UK from what I understand.
> >> >> -----Original Message-----
> >> >> From: tokyohackerspace@googlegroups.com
> >> >> [mailto:tokyohackerspace@googlegroups.com] On Behalf Of James
Andrews
> >> >> Sent: Thursday, October 25, 2012 12:01 AM
> >> >> To: tokyohackerspace@googlegroups.com
> >> >> Subject: Re: [THS:20704] Akihabara Project
> >> >> Why not just use paypal for as the card processor? Paypal can be
set
> >> >> up in a slew of methods. The most familiar is the one where you
have
> >> >> to log into paypal, but you can also use them as a processor where
the
> >> >> customer doesn't have an account. Getting a processing account for
a
> >> >> non business is not an easy task, you need bank accounts, proof that
> >> >> you're a legitimate business. Lots of messy business type things.
> >> >> Paypal (or google checkout though I've never used them) is probably
> >> >> the most easy way to process credit cards at this stage.
> >> >> James
> >> >> On Wed, Oct 24, 2012 at 10:25 PM, Akiba <ch...@freaklabs.org> wrote:
> >> >> > Hi James.
> >> >> > Thanks for the comments. Regarding fundraising, we're definitely
> > going
> >> > to
> >> >> do
> >> >> > a Kickstarter. The timeframe will probably depend on everyone's
> >> > schedules
> >> >> > since things will probably get busy soon. I don't think it'd
> > generally
> >> > be
> >> >> > much of a problem, especially since we have the capability of
> > providing
> >> >> > interesting rewards, both from our own designs and from Akihabara.
> >> >> > For the webshop, I'll be setting that up soon. We'll be using a
> > packaged
> >> >> > shopping cart solution, most likely zencart or magento. I need to
see
> >> > what
> >> >> > the credit card processing options are in Japan. Most likely we'll
> >> > initially
> >> >> > go through a payment processor in the US. I'll be working all that
> > out
> >> > soon
> >> >> > to get the site up.
> >> >> > As for the rest, the membership thing can be tied to the webshop,
> >> > especially
> >> >> > since both support recurring payments. Donations normally are not
a
> > huge
> >> >> > part of the income we receive other than when the tsunami
occurred.
> I
> >> > think
> >> >> > what MRE put up is probably fine and I doubt it will be much of a
> >> > factor.
> >> >> I
> >> >> > think we'd rather get money from selling goods, membership dues,
or
> >> >> > fundraising events than collecting handouts anyways.
> >> >> > Getting the local shops to pick up merchandise will probably be
> >> > difficult.
> >> >> > It's actually a pain in the ass to go through retail distribution
> > since
> >> > the
> >> >> > paperwork and peripheral stuff is onerous. And of course, we'd
> > probably
> >> > need
> >> >> > an array of products since merchandisers try to limit the number
of
> >> >> > suppliers they deal with. They usually wouldn't stock one or two
> >> > different
> >> >> > items from a supplier unless there was something really special
about
> >> > it.
> >> >> > I'd say it's possible, but probably not likely in the short term.
> >> >> > Anyways, there's definitely a lot of stuff to think about to make
the
> >> > move
> >> >> > happen and make it sustainable, but now that it's going to happen,
I
> >> > keep
> >> >> on
> >> >> > thinking that we should have done it sooner.
> >> >> >> -----Original Message-----
> >> >> >> From: tokyohackerspace@googlegroups.com
> >> >> >> [mailto:tokyohackerspace@googlegroups.com] On Behalf Of James
> > Andrews
> >> >> >> Sent: Wednesday, October 24, 2012 10:02 PM
> >> >> >> To: tokyohackerspace@googlegroups.com
> >> >> >> Subject: Re: [THS:20699] Akihabara Project
> >> >> >> I'm kind of wishing I hadn't missed yesterdays meeting.
> >> >> >> I for one would be thrilled to see the THS move to Akihabara.
The
> >> >> >> time it takes to get to Shibuya from my house and navigate my way
to
> >> >> >> the current location (nevermind the previous location) is a bit
> >> >> >> consuming. I always get lost trying to get to the right exit of
> >> >> >> Shibuya station.
> >> >> >> I like what I've read. Here are my comments. I am just going to
> > kind
> >> >> >> of let them spew out. Hopefully it'll be coherent and I won't
sound
> >> >> >> like an ass.
> >> >> >> Classes and workshops. I have noticed that most of the
> >> >> >> classes/workshops that are offered are often pay when you show.
I
> >> >> >> don't know what the THS's luck has been, but when I ran meetup
> > groups
> >> >> >> I'd get 10 people say they were going and 3 people showing up.
Has
> >> >> >> there been any talk about making some classes/workshops prepay so
> > that
> >> >> >> you have a better idea of who's really going to show up?
> >> >> >> Possible idea to help raise funds.
> >> >> >> 1) I have not played with 3D printing technology, but THS could
get
> > a
> >> >> >> 3D printer and offer the printed out parts for 3D printers for
> > others
> >> >> >> to make at a price a little above the cost of manufacturing.
Order
> >> >> >> comes in, someone prints the parts, order is shipped out. Just a
> >> >> >> thought.
> >> >> >> 2) Once THS has THS kits/projects that are sold on THS shop why
not
> >> >> >> see if we can get some or at least one of the retailers in
Akihabara
> >> >> >> to carry them. This would help with fundraising and give THS
some
> >> >> >> visibility within the local community.
> >> >> >> 3) Merch. Do you think folks from other hackerspaces would be
> >> >> >> interested in a THS t-shirt or something else with a THS logo on
it?
> >> >> >> 4) While everyone and their brother seems to be doing one, why
not
> a
> >> >> >> Kickstarter or Indigogo campaign. Could go for something small
$5k
> > or
> >> >> >> such to help get equipment that the THS needs.
> >> >> >> Website
> >> >> >> I know there was a meeting to discuss the website. I wasn't sure
if
> >> >> >> it was open to non members, and even if it was, I was real sick
that
> >> >> >> day so I wasn't going anywhere. That said I'd like to know what
was
> >> >> >> discussed what direction the website may go in. I am hoping
within
> >> >> >> the next month or so to pay for 3 month membership, if I can make
> > that
> >> >> >> happen I'd be interested in helping out in that department, since
> >> >> >> that's what I've been doing for the last 15 years (with a high
we don't need to work with that many big companies i think.
the big diff is that KK has strict requirements on number of
directors, shareholders, yearly board meetings and votes etc.
plus a more complex tax structure
GK is more flexible and does not require the Board of directors stuff-
and yearly meetings etc.
tax structure is easier
For both there is no longer a min. capitalization requirement- but we
do need to include capitalization in the company formation and
fundraising plans. Every director/investor has to put in their money
at formation time etc.
Anyway- Her name is Yoko Majima and she is awesome- Shall I set up a
meeting for after 11/1?
Lauren
On Wed, Oct 24, 2012 at 1:02 PM, Akiba <ch...@freaklabs.org> wrote:
> Yeah, lets talk to her. We should find out the cost and the benefits of a GK
> vs KK. I also heard that GK (godo kaisha) is easier to maintain than a KK
> but have no experience with it. When do you think we can meet up with her?
> For those that are tuning in, GK is modeled after an LLC in the US. KK is
> modeled after a corporation. Both provide liability protection, but in some
> cases, I've heard companies preferring to work with KK's than GK's since the
> KK is more known and better understood. This was a few years back when GK
> was first introduced. Not sure about now.
>> -----Original Message-----
>> From: tokyohackerspace@googlegroups.com
>> [mailto:tokyohackerspace@googlegroups.com] On Behalf Of lauren shannon
>> Sent: Thursday, October 25, 2012 3:28 AM
>> To: tokyohackerspace@googlegroups.com
>> Subject: Re: [THS:20710] Akihabara Project
>> I think it would be easier to do a GK (no need to do a KK) GK easier
>> and less tax issue problems
>> I have a terrific friend who's business is to help gaijin set up
>> companies in japan. I recommend she meet with the board and Akiba and
>> discuss the options.
>> NPO status does not have a great tax benefit and is harder to do.
>> Plus what we can do with money we raise is more limited.
>> Lauren
>> On Wed, Oct 24, 2012 at 5:19 AM, Akiba <ch...@freaklabs.org> wrote:
>> > I need to study more about NPO status in Japan but from what I
> understand
>> > it's not so beneficial. At least not as tax-worthy as the US. 501C3
> status
>> > might not help us too much since that would mostly affect US taxes. Its
>> > still an open discussion but we'll need to take care of it soon.
>> >> -----Original Message-----
>> >> From: tokyohackerspace@googlegroups.com
>> >> [mailto:tokyohackerspace@googlegroups.com] On Behalf Of James Andrews
>> >> Sent: Thursday, October 25, 2012 12:17 AM
>> >> To: tokyohackerspace@googlegroups.com
>> >> Subject: Re: [THS:20708] Akihabara Project
>> >> So would you start as a generic corporation or a 501.3c corporation?
>> >> Do you think that would help in getting nonprofit status in Japan more
>> >> easily if THS already had it in the US?
>> >> james
>> >> On Thu, Oct 25, 2012 at 12:12 AM, Akiba <ch...@freaklabs.org> wrote:
>> >> > Yeah, I'm thinking to have corporate status in the US which allows
> for
>> a
>> >> > corporate bank account. After that, then we can do Paypal Website
>> > Payments
>> >> > Pro as well as the Paypal Express Checkout. Unfortunately it's only
> for
>> > the
>> >> > US, and kinda for the UK from what I understand.
>> >> >> -----Original Message-----
>> >> >> From: tokyohackerspace@googlegroups.com
>> >> >> [mailto:tokyohackerspace@googlegroups.com] On Behalf Of James
> Andrews
>> >> >> Sent: Thursday, October 25, 2012 12:01 AM
>> >> >> To: tokyohackerspace@googlegroups.com
>> >> >> Subject: Re: [THS:20704] Akihabara Project
>> >> >> Why not just use paypal for as the card processor? Paypal can be
> set
>> >> >> up in a slew of methods. The most familiar is the one where you
> have
>> >> >> to log into paypal, but you can also use them as a processor where
> the
>> >> >> customer doesn't have an account. Getting a processing account for
> a
>> >> >> non business is not an easy task, you need bank accounts, proof that
>> >> >> you're a legitimate business. Lots of messy business type things.
>> >> >> Paypal (or google checkout though I've never used them) is probably
>> >> >> the most easy way to process credit cards at this stage.
>> >> >> James
>> >> >> On Wed, Oct 24, 2012 at 10:25 PM, Akiba <ch...@freaklabs.org> wrote:
>> >> >> > Hi James.
>> >> >> > Thanks for the comments. Regarding fundraising, we're definitely
>> > going
>> >> > to
>> >> >> do
>> >> >> > a Kickstarter. The timeframe will probably depend on everyone's
>> >> > schedules
>> >> >> > since things will probably get busy soon. I don't think it'd
>> > generally
>> >> > be
>> >> >> > much of a problem, especially since we have the capability of
>> > providing
>> >> >> > interesting rewards, both from our own designs and from Akihabara.
>> >> >> > For the webshop, I'll be setting that up soon. We'll be using a
>> > packaged
>> >> >> > shopping cart solution, most likely zencart or magento. I need to
> see
>> >> > what
>> >> >> > the credit card processing options are in Japan. Most likely we'll
>> >> > initially
>> >> >> > go through a payment processor in the US. I'll be working all that
>> > out
>> >> > soon
>> >> >> > to get the site up.
>> >> >> > As for the rest, the membership thing can be tied to the webshop,
>> >> > especially
>> >> >> > since both support recurring payments. Donations normally are not
> a
>> > huge
>> >> >> > part of the income we receive other than when the tsunami
> occurred.
>> I
>> >> > think
>> >> >> > what MRE put up is probably fine and I doubt it will be much of a
>> >> > factor.
>> >> >> I
>> >> >> > think we'd rather get money from selling goods, membership dues,
> or
>> >> >> > fundraising events than collecting handouts anyways.
>> >> >> > Getting the local shops to pick up merchandise will probably be
>> >> > difficult.
>> >> >> > It's actually a pain in the ass to go through retail distribution
>> > since
>> >> > the
>> >> >> > paperwork and peripheral stuff is onerous. And of course, we'd
>> > probably
>> >> > need
>> >> >> > an array of products since merchandisers try to limit the number
> of
>> >> >> > suppliers they deal with. They usually wouldn't stock one or two
>> >> > different
>> >> >> > items from a supplier unless there was something really special
> about
>> >> > it.
>> >> >> > I'd say it's possible, but probably not likely in the short term.
>> >> >> > Anyways, there's definitely a lot of stuff to think about to make
> the
>> >> > move
>> >> >> > happen and make it sustainable, but now that it's going to happen,
> I
>> >> > keep
>> >> >> on
>> >> >> > thinking that we should have done it sooner.
>> >> >> >> -----Original Message-----
>> >> >> >> From: tokyohackerspace@googlegroups.com
>> >> >> >> [mailto:tokyohackerspace@googlegroups.com] On Behalf Of James
>> > Andrews
>> >> >> >> Sent: Wednesday, October 24, 2012 10:02 PM
>> >> >> >> To: tokyohackerspace@googlegroups.com
>> >> >> >> Subject: Re: [THS:20699] Akihabara Project
>> >> >> >> I'm kind of wishing I hadn't missed yesterdays meeting.
>> >> >> >> I for one would be thrilled to see the THS move to Akihabara.
> The
>> >> >> >> time it takes to get to Shibuya from my house and navigate my way
> to
>> >> >> >> the current location (nevermind the previous location) is a bit
>> >> >> >> consuming. I always get lost trying to get to the right exit of
>> >> >> >> Shibuya station.
>> >> >> >> I like what I've read. Here are my comments. I am just going to
>> > kind
>> >> >> >> of let them spew out. Hopefully it'll be coherent and I won't
> sound
>> >> >> >> like an ass.
>> >> >> >> Classes and workshops. I have noticed that most of the
>> >> >> >> classes/workshops that are offered are often pay when you show.
> I
>> >> >> >> don't know what the THS's luck has been, but when I ran meetup
>> > groups
>> >> >> >> I'd get 10 people say they were going and 3 people showing up.
> Has
>> >> >> >> there been any talk about making some classes/workshops prepay so
>> > that
>> >> >> >> you have a better idea of who's really going to show up?
>> >> >> >> Possible idea to help raise funds.
>> >> >> >> 1) I have not played with 3D printing technology, but THS could
> get
>> > a
>> >> >> >> 3D printer and offer the printed out parts for 3D printers for
>> > others
>> >> >> >> to make at a price a little above the cost of manufacturing.
> Order
>> >> >> >> comes in, someone prints the parts, order is shipped out. Just a
>> >> >> >> thought.
>> >> >> >> 2) Once THS has THS kits/projects that are sold on THS shop why
> not
>> >> >> >> see if we can get some or at least one of the retailers in
> Akihabara
>> >> >> >> to carry them. This would help with fundraising and give THS
> some
>> >> >> >> visibility within the local community.
Sounds good. I'll be in Hong Kong 11/7-11/11 for a Wrecking Crew
performance, but other than that, November is pretty free. If possible, can
we do it on the latter side of November? The early side of November is going
to be a bit busy for me.
> -----Original Message-----
> From: tokyohackerspace@googlegroups.com
> [mailto:tokyohackerspace@googlegroups.com] On Behalf Of lauren shannon
> Sent: Thursday, October 25, 2012 8:45 AM
> To: tokyohackerspace@googlegroups.com
> Subject: Re: [THS:20712] Akihabara Project
> we don't need to work with that many big companies i think.
> the big diff is that KK has strict requirements on number of
> directors, shareholders, yearly board meetings and votes etc.
> plus a more complex tax structure
> GK is more flexible and does not require the Board of directors stuff-
> and yearly meetings etc.
> tax structure is easier
> For both there is no longer a min. capitalization requirement- but we
> do need to include capitalization in the company formation and
> fundraising plans. Every director/investor has to put in their money
> at formation time etc.
> Anyway- Her name is Yoko Majima and she is awesome- Shall I set up a
> meeting for after 11/1?
> Lauren
> On Wed, Oct 24, 2012 at 1:02 PM, Akiba <ch...@freaklabs.org> wrote:
> > Yeah, lets talk to her. We should find out the cost and the benefits of
a
> GK
> > vs KK. I also heard that GK (godo kaisha) is easier to maintain than a
KK
> > but have no experience with it. When do you think we can meet up with
her?
> > For those that are tuning in, GK is modeled after an LLC in the US. KK
is
> > modeled after a corporation. Both provide liability protection, but in
some
> > cases, I've heard companies preferring to work with KK's than GK's since
the
> > KK is more known and better understood. This was a few years back when
GK
> > was first introduced. Not sure about now.
> >> -----Original Message-----
> >> From: tokyohackerspace@googlegroups.com
> >> [mailto:tokyohackerspace@googlegroups.com] On Behalf Of lauren shannon
> >> Sent: Thursday, October 25, 2012 3:28 AM
> >> To: tokyohackerspace@googlegroups.com
> >> Subject: Re: [THS:20710] Akihabara Project
> >> I think it would be easier to do a GK (no need to do a KK) GK easier
> >> and less tax issue problems
> >> I have a terrific friend who's business is to help gaijin set up
> >> companies in japan. I recommend she meet with the board and Akiba and
> >> discuss the options.
> >> NPO status does not have a great tax benefit and is harder to do.
> >> Plus what we can do with money we raise is more limited.
> >> Lauren
> >> On Wed, Oct 24, 2012 at 5:19 AM, Akiba <ch...@freaklabs.org> wrote:
> >> > I need to study more about NPO status in Japan but from what I
> > understand
> >> > it's not so beneficial. At least not as tax-worthy as the US. 501C3
> > status
> >> > might not help us too much since that would mostly affect US taxes.
Its
> >> > still an open discussion but we'll need to take care of it soon.
> >> >> -----Original Message-----
> >> >> From: tokyohackerspace@googlegroups.com
> >> >> [mailto:tokyohackerspace@googlegroups.com] On Behalf Of James
Andrews
> >> >> Sent: Thursday, October 25, 2012 12:17 AM
> >> >> To: tokyohackerspace@googlegroups.com
> >> >> Subject: Re: [THS:20708] Akihabara Project
> >> >> So would you start as a generic corporation or a 501.3c corporation?
> >> >> Do you think that would help in getting nonprofit status in Japan
more
> >> >> easily if THS already had it in the US?
> >> >> james
> >> >> On Thu, Oct 25, 2012 at 12:12 AM, Akiba <ch...@freaklabs.org> wrote:
> >> >> > Yeah, I'm thinking to have corporate status in the US which allows
> > for
> >> a
> >> >> > corporate bank account. After that, then we can do Paypal Website
> >> > Payments
> >> >> > Pro as well as the Paypal Express Checkout. Unfortunately it's
only
> > for
> >> > the
> >> >> > US, and kinda for the UK from what I understand.
> >> >> >> -----Original Message-----
> >> >> >> From: tokyohackerspace@googlegroups.com
> >> >> >> [mailto:tokyohackerspace@googlegroups.com] On Behalf Of James
> > Andrews
> >> >> >> Sent: Thursday, October 25, 2012 12:01 AM
> >> >> >> To: tokyohackerspace@googlegroups.com
> >> >> >> Subject: Re: [THS:20704] Akihabara Project
> >> >> >> Why not just use paypal for as the card processor? Paypal can be
> > set
> >> >> >> up in a slew of methods. The most familiar is the one where you
> > have
> >> >> >> to log into paypal, but you can also use them as a processor
where
> > the
> >> >> >> customer doesn't have an account. Getting a processing account
for
> > a
> >> >> >> non business is not an easy task, you need bank accounts, proof
that
> >> >> >> you're a legitimate business. Lots of messy business type
things.
> >> >> >> Paypal (or google checkout though I've never used them) is
probably
> >> >> >> the most easy way to process credit cards at this stage.
> >> >> >> James
> >> >> >> On Wed, Oct 24, 2012 at 10:25 PM, Akiba <ch...@freaklabs.org>
wrote:
> >> >> >> > Hi James.
> >> >> >> > Thanks for the comments. Regarding fundraising, we're
definitely
> >> > going
> >> >> > to
> >> >> >> do
> >> >> >> > a Kickstarter. The timeframe will probably depend on everyone's
> >> >> > schedules
> >> >> >> > since things will probably get busy soon. I don't think it'd
> >> > generally
> >> >> > be
> >> >> >> > much of a problem, especially since we have the capability of
> >> > providing
> >> >> >> > interesting rewards, both from our own designs and from
Akihabara.
> >> >> >> > For the webshop, I'll be setting that up soon. We'll be using a
> >> > packaged
> >> >> >> > shopping cart solution, most likely zencart or magento. I need
to
> > see
> >> >> > what
> >> >> >> > the credit card processing options are in Japan. Most likely
we'll
> >> >> > initially
> >> >> >> > go through a payment processor in the US. I'll be working all
that
> >> > out
> >> >> > soon
> >> >> >> > to get the site up.
> >> >> >> > As for the rest, the membership thing can be tied to the
webshop,
> >> >> > especially
> >> >> >> > since both support recurring payments. Donations normally are
not
> > a
> >> > huge
> >> >> >> > part of the income we receive other than when the tsunami
> > occurred.
> >> I
> >> >> > think
> >> >> >> > what MRE put up is probably fine and I doubt it will be much of
a
> >> >> > factor.
> >> >> >> I
> >> >> >> > think we'd rather get money from selling goods, membership
dues,
> > or
> >> >> >> > fundraising events than collecting handouts anyways.
> >> >> >> > Getting the local shops to pick up merchandise will probably be
> >> >> > difficult.
> >> >> >> > It's actually a pain in the ass to go through retail
distribution
> >> > since
> >> >> > the
> >> >> >> > paperwork and peripheral stuff is onerous. And of course, we'd
> >> > probably
> >> >> > need
> >> >> >> > an array of products since merchandisers try to limit the
number
> > of
> >> >> >> > suppliers they deal with. They usually wouldn't stock one or
two
> >> >> > different
> >> >> >> > items from a supplier unless there was something really special
> > about
> >> >> > it.
> >> >> >> > I'd say it's possible, but probably not likely in the short
term.
> >> >> >> > Anyways, there's definitely a lot of stuff to think about to
make
> > the
> >> >> > move
> >> >> >> > happen and make it sustainable, but now that it's going to
happen,
> > I
> >> >> > keep
> >> >> >> on
> >> >> >> > thinking that we should have done it sooner.
> >> >> >> >> I'm kind of wishing I hadn't missed yesterdays meeting.
> >> >> >> >> I for one would be thrilled to see the THS move to Akihabara.
> > The
> >> >> >> >> time it takes to get to Shibuya from my house and navigate my
way
> > to
> >> >> >> >> the current location (nevermind the previous location) is a
bit
> >> >> >> >> consuming. I always get lost trying to get to the right exit
of
> >> >> >> >> Shibuya station.
> >> >> >> >> I like what I've read. Here are my comments. I am just going
to
> >> > kind
> >> >> >> >> of let them spew out. Hopefully it'll be coherent and I won't
> > sound
> >> >> >> >> like an ass.
> >> >> >> >> Classes and workshops. I have noticed that most of the
sure.
I will set a date and then make it a public meeting for Q&A so
everyone who might be interested in helping form the company can come
and see what's what.
On Wed, Oct 24, 2012 at 2:01 PM, Akiba <ch...@freaklabs.org> wrote:
> Sounds good. I'll be in Hong Kong 11/7-11/11 for a Wrecking Crew
> performance, but other than that, November is pretty free. If possible, can
> we do it on the latter side of November? The early side of November is going
> to be a bit busy for me.
>> -----Original Message-----
>> From: tokyohackerspace@googlegroups.com
>> [mailto:tokyohackerspace@googlegroups.com] On Behalf Of lauren shannon
>> Sent: Thursday, October 25, 2012 8:45 AM
>> To: tokyohackerspace@googlegroups.com
>> Subject: Re: [THS:20712] Akihabara Project
>> we don't need to work with that many big companies i think.
>> the big diff is that KK has strict requirements on number of
>> directors, shareholders, yearly board meetings and votes etc.
>> plus a more complex tax structure
>> GK is more flexible and does not require the Board of directors stuff-
>> and yearly meetings etc.
>> tax structure is easier
>> For both there is no longer a min. capitalization requirement- but we
>> do need to include capitalization in the company formation and
>> fundraising plans. Every director/investor has to put in their money
>> at formation time etc.
>> Anyway- Her name is Yoko Majima and she is awesome- Shall I set up a
>> meeting for after 11/1?
>> Lauren
>> On Wed, Oct 24, 2012 at 1:02 PM, Akiba <ch...@freaklabs.org> wrote:
>> > Yeah, lets talk to her. We should find out the cost and the benefits of
> a
>> GK
>> > vs KK. I also heard that GK (godo kaisha) is easier to maintain than a
> KK
>> > but have no experience with it. When do you think we can meet up with
> her?
>> > For those that are tuning in, GK is modeled after an LLC in the US. KK
> is
>> > modeled after a corporation. Both provide liability protection, but in
> some
>> > cases, I've heard companies preferring to work with KK's than GK's since
> the
>> > KK is more known and better understood. This was a few years back when
> GK
>> > was first introduced. Not sure about now.
>> >> -----Original Message-----
>> >> From: tokyohackerspace@googlegroups.com
>> >> [mailto:tokyohackerspace@googlegroups.com] On Behalf Of lauren shannon
>> >> Sent: Thursday, October 25, 2012 3:28 AM
>> >> To: tokyohackerspace@googlegroups.com
>> >> Subject: Re: [THS:20710] Akihabara Project
>> >> I think it would be easier to do a GK (no need to do a KK) GK easier
>> >> and less tax issue problems
>> >> I have a terrific friend who's business is to help gaijin set up
>> >> companies in japan. I recommend she meet with the board and Akiba and
>> >> discuss the options.
>> >> NPO status does not have a great tax benefit and is harder to do.
>> >> Plus what we can do with money we raise is more limited.
>> >> Lauren
>> >> On Wed, Oct 24, 2012 at 5:19 AM, Akiba <ch...@freaklabs.org> wrote:
>> >> > I need to study more about NPO status in Japan but from what I
>> > understand
>> >> > it's not so beneficial. At least not as tax-worthy as the US. 501C3
>> > status
>> >> > might not help us too much since that would mostly affect US taxes.
> Its
>> >> > still an open discussion but we'll need to take care of it soon.
>> >> >> -----Original Message-----
>> >> >> From: tokyohackerspace@googlegroups.com
>> >> >> [mailto:tokyohackerspace@googlegroups.com] On Behalf Of James
> Andrews
>> >> >> Sent: Thursday, October 25, 2012 12:17 AM
>> >> >> To: tokyohackerspace@googlegroups.com
>> >> >> Subject: Re: [THS:20708] Akihabara Project
>> >> >> So would you start as a generic corporation or a 501.3c corporation?
>> >> >> Do you think that would help in getting nonprofit status in Japan
> more
>> >> >> easily if THS already had it in the US?
>> >> >> james
>> >> >> On Thu, Oct 25, 2012 at 12:12 AM, Akiba <ch...@freaklabs.org> wrote:
>> >> >> > Yeah, I'm thinking to have corporate status in the US which allows
>> > for
>> >> a
>> >> >> > corporate bank account. After that, then we can do Paypal Website
>> >> > Payments
>> >> >> > Pro as well as the Paypal Express Checkout. Unfortunately it's
> only
>> > for
>> >> > the
>> >> >> > US, and kinda for the UK from what I understand.
>> >> >> >> -----Original Message-----
>> >> >> >> From: tokyohackerspace@googlegroups.com
>> >> >> >> [mailto:tokyohackerspace@googlegroups.com] On Behalf Of James
>> > Andrews
>> >> >> >> Sent: Thursday, October 25, 2012 12:01 AM
>> >> >> >> To: tokyohackerspace@googlegroups.com
>> >> >> >> Subject: Re: [THS:20704] Akihabara Project
>> >> >> >> Why not just use paypal for as the card processor? Paypal can be
>> > set
>> >> >> >> up in a slew of methods. The most familiar is the one where you
>> > have
>> >> >> >> to log into paypal, but you can also use them as a processor
> where
>> > the
>> >> >> >> customer doesn't have an account. Getting a processing account
> for
>> > a
>> >> >> >> non business is not an easy task, you need bank accounts, proof
> that
>> >> >> >> you're a legitimate business. Lots of messy business type
> things.
>> >> >> >> Paypal (or google checkout though I've never used them) is
> probably
>> >> >> >> the most easy way to process credit cards at this stage.
>> >> >> >> James
>> >> >> >> On Wed, Oct 24, 2012 at 10:25 PM, Akiba <ch...@freaklabs.org>
> wrote:
>> >> >> >> > Hi James.
>> >> >> >> > Thanks for the comments. Regarding fundraising, we're
> definitely
>> >> > going
>> >> >> > to
>> >> >> >> do
>> >> >> >> > a Kickstarter. The timeframe will probably depend on everyone's
>> >> >> > schedules
>> >> >> >> > since things will probably get busy soon. I don't think it'd
>> >> > generally
>> >> >> > be
>> >> >> >> > much of a problem, especially since we have the capability of
>> >> > providing
>> >> >> >> > interesting rewards, both from our own designs and from
> Akihabara.
>> >> >> >> > For the webshop, I'll be setting that up soon. We'll be using a
>> >> > packaged
>> >> >> >> > shopping cart solution, most likely zencart or magento. I need
> to
>> > see
>> >> >> > what
>> >> >> >> > the credit card processing options are in Japan. Most likely
> we'll
>> >> >> > initially
>> >> >> >> > go through a payment processor in the US. I'll be working all
> that
>> >> > out
>> >> >> > soon
>> >> >> >> > to get the site up.
>> >> >> >> > As for the rest, the membership thing can be tied to the
> webshop,
>> >> >> > especially
>> >> >> >> > since both support recurring payments. Donations normally are
> not
>> > a
>> >> > huge
>> >> >> >> > part of the income we receive other than when the tsunami
>> > occurred.
>> >> I
>> >> >> > think
>> >> >> >> > what MRE put up is probably fine and I doubt it will be much of
> a
>> >> >> > factor.
>> >> >> >> I
>> >> >> >> > think we'd rather get money from selling goods, membership
> dues,
>> > or
>> >> >> >> > fundraising events than collecting handouts anyways.
>> >> >> >> > Getting the local shops to pick up merchandise will probably be
>> >> >> > difficult.
>> >> >> >> > It's actually a pain in the ass to go through retail
> distribution
>> >> > since
>> >> >> > the
>> >> >> >> > paperwork and peripheral stuff is onerous. And of course, we'd
>> >> > probably
>> >> >> > need
>> >> >> >> > an array of products since merchandisers try to limit the
> number
>> > of
>> >> >> >> > suppliers they deal with. They usually wouldn't stock one or
> two
>> >> >> > different
>> >> >> >> > items from a supplier unless there was something really special
>> > about
>> >> >> > it.
>> >> >> >> > I'd say it's possible, but probably not likely in the short
> term.
>> >> >> >> > Anyways, there's definitely a lot of stuff to think about to
> make
>> > the
>> >> >> > move
>> >> >> >> > happen and make it sustainable, but now that it's going to
> happen,
>> > I
>> >> >> > keep
>> >> >> >> on
>> >> >> >> > thinking that we should have done it sooner.
Sounds good on both counts. Let's do the biz formation. We should probably
start moving on the barcamp. Can you post the wiki link again? We should
also move it to the main site or at least provide a link on the main site.
The barcamp wiki link can't be found through google or the site.
> -----Original Message-----
> From: tokyohackerspace@googlegroups.com
> [mailto:tokyohackerspace@googlegroups.com] On Behalf Of lauren shannon
> Sent: Thursday, October 25, 2012 9:10 AM
> To: tokyohackerspace@googlegroups.com
> Subject: Re: [THS:20716] Akihabara Project
> sure.
> I will set a date and then make it a public meeting for Q&A so
> everyone who might be interested in helping form the company can come
> and see what's what.
> Lauren
> On Wed, Oct 24, 2012 at 2:01 PM, Akiba <ch...@freaklabs.org> wrote:
> > Sounds good. I'll be in Hong Kong 11/7-11/11 for a Wrecking Crew
> > performance, but other than that, November is pretty free. If possible,
can
> > we do it on the latter side of November? The early side of November is
going
> > to be a bit busy for me.
> >> -----Original Message-----
> >> From: tokyohackerspace@googlegroups.com
> >> [mailto:tokyohackerspace@googlegroups.com] On Behalf Of lauren shannon
> >> Sent: Thursday, October 25, 2012 8:45 AM
> >> To: tokyohackerspace@googlegroups.com
> >> Subject: Re: [THS:20712] Akihabara Project
> >> we don't need to work with that many big companies i think.
> >> the big diff is that KK has strict requirements on number of
> >> directors, shareholders, yearly board meetings and votes etc.
> >> plus a more complex tax structure
> >> GK is more flexible and does not require the Board of directors stuff-
> >> and yearly meetings etc.
> >> tax structure is easier
> >> For both there is no longer a min. capitalization requirement- but we
> >> do need to include capitalization in the company formation and
> >> fundraising plans. Every director/investor has to put in their money
> >> at formation time etc.
> >> Anyway- Her name is Yoko Majima and she is awesome- Shall I set up a
> >> meeting for after 11/1?
> >> Lauren
> >> On Wed, Oct 24, 2012 at 1:02 PM, Akiba <ch...@freaklabs.org> wrote:
> >> > Yeah, lets talk to her. We should find out the cost and the benefits
of
> > a
> >> GK
> >> > vs KK. I also heard that GK (godo kaisha) is easier to maintain than
a
> > KK
> >> > but have no experience with it. When do you think we can meet up with
> > her?
> >> > For those that are tuning in, GK is modeled after an LLC in the US.
KK
> > is
> >> > modeled after a corporation. Both provide liability protection, but
in
> > some
> >> > cases, I've heard companies preferring to work with KK's than GK's
since
> > the
> >> > KK is more known and better understood. This was a few years back
when
> > GK
> >> > was first introduced. Not sure about now.
> >> >> -----Original Message-----
> >> >> From: tokyohackerspace@googlegroups.com
> >> >> [mailto:tokyohackerspace@googlegroups.com] On Behalf Of lauren
shannon
> >> >> Sent: Thursday, October 25, 2012 3:28 AM
> >> >> To: tokyohackerspace@googlegroups.com
> >> >> Subject: Re: [THS:20710] Akihabara Project
> >> >> I think it would be easier to do a GK (no need to do a KK) GK easier
> >> >> and less tax issue problems
> >> >> I have a terrific friend who's business is to help gaijin set up
> >> >> companies in japan. I recommend she meet with the board and Akiba
and
> >> >> discuss the options.
> >> >> NPO status does not have a great tax benefit and is harder to do.
> >> >> Plus what we can do with money we raise is more limited.
> >> >> Lauren
> >> >> On Wed, Oct 24, 2012 at 5:19 AM, Akiba <ch...@freaklabs.org> wrote:
> >> >> > I need to study more about NPO status in Japan but from what I
> >> > understand
> >> >> > it's not so beneficial. At least not as tax-worthy as the US.
501C3
> >> > status
> >> >> > might not help us too much since that would mostly affect US
taxes.
> > Its
> >> >> > still an open discussion but we'll need to take care of it soon.
> >> >> >> -----Original Message-----
> >> >> >> From: tokyohackerspace@googlegroups.com
> >> >> >> [mailto:tokyohackerspace@googlegroups.com] On Behalf Of James
> > Andrews
> >> >> >> Sent: Thursday, October 25, 2012 12:17 AM
> >> >> >> To: tokyohackerspace@googlegroups.com
> >> >> >> Subject: Re: [THS:20708] Akihabara Project
> >> >> >> So would you start as a generic corporation or a 501.3c
corporation?
> >> >> >> Do you think that would help in getting nonprofit status in Japan
> > more
> >> >> >> easily if THS already had it in the US?
> >> >> >> james
> >> >> >> On Thu, Oct 25, 2012 at 12:12 AM, Akiba <ch...@freaklabs.org>
wrote:
> >> >> >> > Yeah, I'm thinking to have corporate status in the US which
allows
> >> > for
> >> >> a
> >> >> >> > corporate bank account. After that, then we can do Paypal
Website
> >> >> > Payments
> >> >> >> > Pro as well as the Paypal Express Checkout. Unfortunately it's
> > only
> >> > for
> >> >> > the
> >> >> >> > US, and kinda for the UK from what I understand.
> >> >> >> >> -----Original Message-----
> >> >> >> >> From: tokyohackerspace@googlegroups.com
> >> >> >> >> [mailto:tokyohackerspace@googlegroups.com] On Behalf Of James
> >> > Andrews
> >> >> >> >> Sent: Thursday, October 25, 2012 12:01 AM
> >> >> >> >> To: tokyohackerspace@googlegroups.com
> >> >> >> >> Subject: Re: [THS:20704] Akihabara Project
> >> >> >> >> Why not just use paypal for as the card processor? Paypal can
be
> >> > set
> >> >> >> >> up in a slew of methods. The most familiar is the one where
you
> >> > have
> >> >> >> >> to log into paypal, but you can also use them as a processor
> > where
> >> > the
> >> >> >> >> customer doesn't have an account. Getting a processing
account
> > for
> >> > a
> >> >> >> >> non business is not an easy task, you need bank accounts,
proof
> > that
> >> >> >> >> you're a legitimate business. Lots of messy business type
> > things.
> >> >> >> >> Paypal (or google checkout though I've never used them) is
> > probably
> >> >> >> >> the most easy way to process credit cards at this stage.
> >> >> >> >> James
> >> >> >> >> On Wed, Oct 24, 2012 at 10:25 PM, Akiba <ch...@freaklabs.org>
> > wrote:
> >> >> >> >> > Hi James.
> >> >> >> >> > Thanks for the comments. Regarding fundraising, we're
> > definitely
> >> >> > going
> >> >> >> > to
> >> >> >> >> do
> >> >> >> >> > a Kickstarter. The timeframe will probably depend on
everyone's
> >> >> >> > schedules
> >> >> >> >> > since things will probably get busy soon. I don't think it'd
> >> >> > generally
> >> >> >> > be
> >> >> >> >> > much of a problem, especially since we have the capability
of
> >> >> > providing
> >> >> >> >> > interesting rewards, both from our own designs and from
> > Akihabara.
> >> >> >> >> > For the webshop, I'll be setting that up soon. We'll be
using
> a
> >> >> > packaged
> >> >> >> >> > shopping cart solution, most likely zencart or magento. I
need
> > to
> >> > see
> >> >> >> > what
> >> >> >> >> > the credit card processing options are in Japan. Most likely
> > we'll
> >> >> >> > initially
> >> >> >> >> > go through a payment processor in the US. I'll be working
all
> > that
> >> >> > out
> >> >> >> > soon
> >> >> >> >> > to get the site up.
> >> >> >> >> > As for the rest, the membership thing can be tied to the
> > webshop,
> >> >> >> > especially
> >> >> >> >> > since both support recurring payments. Donations normally
are
> > not
> >> > a
> >> >> > huge
> >> >> >> >> > part of the income we receive other than when the tsunami
> >> > occurred.
> >> >> I
> >> >> >> > think
> >> >> >> >> > what MRE put up is probably fine and I doubt it will be much
of
> > a
> >> >> >> > factor.
> >> >> >> >> I
> >> >> >> >> > think we'd rather get money from selling goods, membership
> > dues,
> >> > or
> >> >> >> >> > fundraising events than collecting handouts anyways.
> >> >> >> >> > Getting the local shops to pick up merchandise will probably
be
> >> >> >> > difficult.
> >> >> >> >> > It's actually a pain in the ass to go through retail
> > distribution
> >> >> > since
> >> >> >> > the
> >> >> >> >> > paperwork and peripheral stuff is onerous. And of course,
we'd
> >> >> > probably
> >> >> >> > need
> >> >> >> >> > an array of products since merchandisers try to limit the
> > number
> >> > of
> >> >> >> >> > suppliers they deal with. They usually wouldn't stock one or
> > two
> >> >> >> > different
> >> >> >> >> > items from a supplier unless there was something really
special
> >> > about
> >> >> >> > it.
> >> >> >> >> > I'd say it's
On Wed, Oct 24, 2012 at 10:01 PM, James Andrews <thenet...@gmail.com> wrote:
> I'm kind of wishing I hadn't missed yesterdays meeting.
Me too! Hope you can make it again soon.
> Classes and workshops. I have noticed that most of the
> classes/workshops that are offered are often pay when you show.
I think class attendees have been pretty consistent. Signups are not
always trustworthy (spammers are everywhere), but at the scale we work
it's not a big problem if one or two people don't show up.
The harder decision for an instructor is whether or not to cancel if
only one or two people sign up.
> there been any talk about making some classes/workshops prepay so that
> you have a better idea of who's really going to show up?
There's been no talk of it, but it's an interesting thing to consider.
Since we usually get paid cash at the class, I'm not sure how prepaid
collection would work. We've got no framework for collecting on-time
or through-instructor or whatever.
> 1) I have not played with 3D printing technology, but THS could get a
> 3D printer and offer the printed out parts for 3D printers for others
> to make at a price a little above the cost of manufacturing. Order
> comes in, someone prints the parts, order is shipped out. Just a
> thought.
I don't think THS has direct experience with 3D printing, but a few of
our friends do and we set up a fund a long time ago to get one. If
you're interested in helping with getting a printer or investigating
whether it's profitable, speak up and we can hook you up.
> 3) Merch. Do you think folks from other hackerspaces would be
> interested in a THS t-shirt or something else with a THS logo on it?
We've had off-and-on success with this. If you know a good designer
that would donate some time, it's worth a shot.
> Website
> I know there was a meeting to discuss the website. I wasn't sure if
> it was open to non members, and even if it was, I was real sick that
> day so I wasn't going anywhere. That said I'd like to know what was
> discussed what direction the website may go in.
The website discussions are open to everyone. We need all the help we can get.
I think we don't have enough volunteer effort to discuss "direction"
with any clarity, but we're doing an ok job of gathering ideas for
updates.
> I am hoping within
> the next month or so to pay for 3 month membership, if I can make that
> happen I'd be interested in helping out in that department, since
> that's what I've been doing for the last 15 years (with a high
> concentration in ecommerce ie: webshops).
Would be great to have your advice!
> One thing that I'd like to
> see with the website is it be responsive to mobile vs non-mobile.
> (something I am able to help with).
I'm interested in hearing more about this. On my smartphone I don't
notice anything non-responsive. Could you expand on it next time you
get to a meeting?
Thanks very much for your input, and I'm sure we'll be talking about
this in the near future.
> On Wed, Oct 24, 2012 at 10:01 PM, James Andrews <thenet...@gmail.com> wrote:
>> I'm kind of wishing I hadn't missed yesterdays meeting.
> Me too! Hope you can make it again soon.
>> Classes and workshops. I have noticed that most of the
>> classes/workshops that are offered are often pay when you show.
> I think class attendees have been pretty consistent. Signups are not
> always trustworthy (spammers are everywhere), but at the scale we work
> it's not a big problem if one or two people don't show up.
> The harder decision for an instructor is whether or not to cancel if
> only one or two people sign up.
>> there been any talk about making some classes/workshops prepay so that
>> you have a better idea of who's really going to show up?
> There's been no talk of it, but it's an interesting thing to consider.
> Since we usually get paid cash at the class, I'm not sure how prepaid
> collection would work. We've got no framework for collecting on-time
> or through-instructor or whatever.
>> 1) I have not played with 3D printing technology, but THS could get a
>> 3D printer and offer the printed out parts for 3D printers for others
>> to make at a price a little above the cost of manufacturing. Order
>> comes in, someone prints the parts, order is shipped out. Just a
>> thought.
> I don't think THS has direct experience with 3D printing, but a few of
> our friends do and we set up a fund a long time ago to get one. If
> you're interested in helping with getting a printer or investigating
> whether it's profitable, speak up and we can hook you up.
>> 3) Merch. Do you think folks from other hackerspaces would be
>> interested in a THS t-shirt or something else with a THS logo on it?
> We've had off-and-on success with this. If you know a good designer
> that would donate some time, it's worth a shot.
>> Website
>> I know there was a meeting to discuss the website. I wasn't sure if
>> it was open to non members, and even if it was, I was real sick that
>> day so I wasn't going anywhere. That said I'd like to know what was
>> discussed what direction the website may go in.
> The website discussions are open to everyone. We need all the help we can get.
> I think we don't have enough volunteer effort to discuss "direction"
> with any clarity, but we're doing an ok job of gathering ideas for
> updates.
>> I am hoping within
>> the next month or so to pay for 3 month membership, if I can make that
>> happen I'd be interested in helping out in that department, since
>> that's what I've been doing for the last 15 years (with a high
>> concentration in ecommerce ie: webshops).
> Would be great to have your advice!
>> One thing that I'd like to
>> see with the website is it be responsive to mobile vs non-mobile.
>> (something I am able to help with).
> I'm interested in hearing more about this. On my smartphone I don't
> notice anything non-responsive. Could you expand on it next time you
> get to a meeting?
> Thanks very much for your input, and I'm sure we'll be talking about
> this in the near future.
>> James
> --
> --Richard Frankum
> --
> You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups "TokyoHackerSpace" group.
> To post to this group, send email to tokyohackerspace@googlegroups.com.
> To unsubscribe from this group, send email to tokyohackerspace+unsubscribe@googlegroups.com.
> For more options, visit this group at http://groups.google.com/group/tokyohackerspace?hl=en.
On Thu, Oct 25, 2012 at 12:07 AM, AbH Belxjander Draconis Serechai
<belxjan...@gmail.com> wrote:
> Well I for one am more than willing to get hands on and get another 3D
> printer [reprap] built...
> The only issue I have with access is literally down to being reliant on a
> battery eating smartphone for directions or needing a guide to find new
> places
I have to say that it's easier to find THS in Shibuya than any other
spot I've tried to navigate to. (with the possible exception of TGI
Friday's, just down the block). Let me know when you need a guide, I'd
be happy to point out the shortcuts too.
> fabbing what I have in mind will need a slightly oversized 3D printer or
> someone with a better grasp of how to shape 3D parts with SECC sheet
> material or something hardened that can be used for base sheeting at least
> for mechanical consideration
It really sounds like we should get another 3D printer presentation,
or a working group, soonish!
On Wednesday, October 24, 2012 12:05:59 PM UTC+9, Akiba , FreakLabs wrote:
> Hi all.
> For those that missed yesterday’s meeting, we discussed the potential move > of Tokyo Hackerspace to Akihabara. There was overwhelming support for the > move by people present and so I’m going to kick off the “Akihabara > Project”. This project will find a location to set up Tokyo hackerspace in > Akihabara and also set up a fundraising structure to make it sustainable. > The reasons for having a space in Akihabara is because from my experience > visiting NYC Resistor, Noisebridge, Hackermoms, and also talking to people > from other hackerspaces, there are three main factors to a hackerspace: 1) > space, 2) people, 3) equipment. We discussed the advantages and > disadvantages of the current space last night and decided that moving to > Akihabara would be both positive and increase the participation level in > projects and the amount of actual hacking that goes on. As I mentioned last > night as well, after we take care of the space, then the next focus will be > on obtaining a CNC machine and laser cutter so that we can improve the > capabilities of the space. That will be a later discussion though.
> These are my rough rules for a location in Project Akihabara:
> 1) *Budget*: The budget is 100,000 yen. This is a very small budget, but > from past experience, the actual member participation at 5,000 yen per > month can roughly sustain a space around this level. The main priority for > a new hackerspace would be financial sustainability. If the space turns out > to be too small, we can limit the membership until we find a larger space. > This would indicate that there is a demand so we can safely expand.
> 2) *Location*: Located in Soto Kanda 6-chome. This is the same > neighborhood as 3331 Chiyoda Art Gallery. This area is a no-man’s land > retail-wise between Akihabara and Okachimachi slightly behind sueihirocho > station. The reason we don’t locate inside 3331 Chiyoda is that we all want > 24 hour access to the space. Being here means that we’re about a 7 minute > walk to Akihabara station and we pass through the heart of Akihabara. In > reality it’s more like a 2 to 3 hour walk to Akihabara station. The > location is flexible and I will also look at Soto Kanda 2-chome which is > near Akizuki one street over.
> 3) *Space*: Office or residential. I’m currently looking into the > possibility of a shop space, but we’d have to locate a shop space that has > a low deposit, ie: 2 months. The standard is 6 months deposit which would > severely delay the move. I don’t know what the policy is on negotiating > deposits. Residential is usually around 1-2 months deposit which is more > do-able. Some people have expressed concern on complaints from neighbors. > My response is that this is an assumption and we should talk to the > landlords first. I don’t want to rule out residential since the key money > is so cheap. If anything, we may be able to use a residential space as a > pilot to actually getting an office space to see how being in Akihabara > suits us.
> 4) *Fundraising*: There are a variety of fundraising possibilities. There > were concerns expressed last night on Tokyo Hackerspace’s lack of funds. My > response is that we haven’t explored many possibilities. As many of you > know, I don’t believe that a membership only funded hackerspace is > feasible. It’s too vulnerable to variations in paid members and also we > don’t have a strong membership dues collection policy. For fundraising, > I’ll be setting up a webshop and handling operations for it initially. > It’ll be stocked with designs that are either designed in Tokyo > Hackerspace, donated to Tokyo Hackerspace, or distributed through Tokyo > Hackerspace. Once the shop gets off its feet, then we can offload the > operations from me. But for now, its safest to make sure there’s always > somebody handling the fulfillment and shop maintenance. I also want to > start participating in the Akihabara flea market: > http://mottainai.info/fleama/ which goes on approximately every two > weeks. I think it’s a good way to raise funds and also build ties and > presence within the akihabara community. Finally classes and workshops can > also be used for fundraising. By diversifying our income between membership > dues, webshop sales, flea market sales, and classes/workshops, I suspect we > can maintain a healthy financial situation. It will take a bit of work from > everyone but I think it will be fun.
> 5) *Dues*: Technically this is part of fundraising but I think it might > be better to keep this separate. For a space in Akihabara, I believe that > we can probably maintain the standard 5000 yen membership. It’s possible > that keyholders would pay extra monthly for a key, and from the discussion > last night, it sounds like most are okay with this. I’m not sure what the > extra cost would be though, if we need it at all. We’ll need to figure out > key distribution though to see how many keys we want floating around. > Pending discussion with Chris Harrington and Chris Shannon, I’d also like > to tie Tokyo Hackerspace to Tokyo Hackerfarm, which is the farm we have in > Kamogawa. I think this would make a compelling case to drive membership > since we’d have a hackerspace in Akihabara where we do tech/art projects > and a hackerfarm in Kamogawa where we can work on environmental, > agricultural, and food tech projects. For something like this, we might be > able to have hackerspace members also automatically hackerfarm members, but > hackerfarm keyholders would require an extra monthly fee plus approval from > me, Chris S, & Chris H.
> 6) *Timeframe*: The initial timeframe is four months. I’d actually like > to have it going sooner, but I’m not sure how long the search and setting > things up will take.
> Anyways, these are my initial plans for Project Akihabara. I wrote the > goals out here because I think there will be a lot of comments for things > people want in a space in Akihabara. I will say right now that not everyone > will be satisfied. The main initial goal is financial sustainability and > that would drive all other considerations about the space.
> Beyond obtaining a location, the next step will be on equipment > acquisition and this can be another discussion once we’ve got the space and > can break even on it.
