Meeting Recap + Next Steps

[wilhelmjennifer]

Hi All,

This morning we met to debrief from the Tech Chats and talk about the future of the Codefest.  I would encourage you to read all the way to the end and provide feedback to the group. 

Debrief

We had 15 organizations across all the events, with mostly different issues.  However, we were able to pick out a few needs that popped up more than one:

1. Physical infrastructure (wiring, wifi, A/V)

2. Connect core systems (CMS, CRM, email, etc.)

3. General web development

No clear app challenges emerged from any of the Tech Chats, which lead to a discussion at the meeting around potential steps forward for the Codefest. We narrowed it down to the following possibilities and then voted:

1. Business as usual – Codefest event, app creation (0 votes)

2. Codefest – other approach (1.5 votes, much discussion)

3. Use our resources, talent, time to assist GiveCamp - potentially expanding it (4 votes)

4. Do Nothing (0 votes)

5. Expand TechChat (1 vote, much discussion)

As you can see, no one felt we should forge ahead with the previous app building model.  Instead the votes landed on either using our resources to bolster Give Camp into a larger event or creating a new version of Codefest that would not center around apps. There are, of course hybrids of these options and it was felt that expanding the Tech Chats - having one full day of longer discussions - could be beneficial by itself. 

Part of the discussion did center around the fact that the URA is not able to commit resources to funding a coordinator, nor is the URA able to take on the role of coordinator.   The Forbes Funds support, if any, is still unclear, and BNY Mellon Foundation is not planning any further support.  

The positive thing is that we all feel the Codefest is a great event and has had many positive outcomes. The URA would continue to have a representative on the committee and likely sponsor the event (whatever form it may take). The people at the meeting this morning - Ben, Sean, Josh, Deb, Ellen, and Todd are all keen to find a path forward. Josh is going to coordinate further discussion. I will let him chime in if he has anything more to add at this time.  I am stepping away from the committee as I have a new position at the URA but Ellen will remain involved. 

I, for one, have been very proud of the work we have done to create the Codefest brand and everything that goes with it. I believe there are lots of opportunities to continue making an impact given a plan. 

That is my recap.  Anyone else in the meeting who wants to add something I might have missed please do so.  Also, those of you who couldn't make it this morning please feel free to give your thoughts or vote. 

All the best,

Jennifer

 

[Josh Lucas]

Thanks Jen for your services on all of this. 

Friends, let's meet and settle on the final new form of SCCF/GiveCamp.

Here's a Doodle poll find common availability. Irwin will have to be present to have a meaningful conversation, so maybe let him go first on the poll. 

https://doodle.com/poll/dufptqt25y7a9ih8

I like beer (and will buy the beer), so I created some evening options.  

-Best Regards,

  Josh Lucas

Need to meet me?

Does the above conversation merit a meeting or call? Sign up here:

https://calendly.com/joshlucas

   

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