Hi,
Here are some takeaways I have come with after going through our SWOT
analysis.
https://balkans.etherpad.mozilla.org/SWOT
For those unfamiliar with SWOT:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/SWOT_analysis
If you look at the strengths and opportunities that we came up with, I
think you will agree that we have a lot of energy and ideas that can
move us forward.
I haven't fully formed my thoughts on these, so we should discuss them
more. If I missed anything, feel free to propose. NOTE that some of
these are Balkan-wide initiatives but most are things we can do in our
own communities.
1. Seek more local media attention
This one can be a big win and easy to tap into if we try. The idea would
be to latch on to an issue of the day and put forward Mozilla's position
on it.
e.g. PIPA / SOPA and user privacy
Prerequisites:
- PR training from Mozilla
- Keep consistent message
2. Strategy to recruit and retain contributors
This is a BIG need for all communities. The Balkans has an opportunity
to lead the way.
2a. Training program (common)
There is an opportunity to come up with a formal program to train new
contributors. The idea is for them to be engaged in interesting tasks
from the get-go to help with retention.
A start here would be items listed for new ReMo Reps, and we can give
back (to ReMo and other communities) as well if relevant.
2b. 6 month internship with mentor (e.g.
aviary.pl)
Assign a mentor to guide new contributors at the start
2c. More female contributors
More than one person brought this up. It is an opportunity to change
community dynamics.
3. Organise more events (public events, workshops, community meetups, ...)
Plus, re-invent the inter-community meetup format.
4. Mobile - approach mobile operators in Balkan region with B2G information
- NOT to make business deals, that is the job of Mozilla HQ
- Make a simple document (and localise it) outlining what B2G is and
what benefits it can bring. This can then be distributed to local operators.
- Possible follow-up meetings
5. Re-boot older communities
e.g. Macedonia
Linked to #2, how do we re-boot communities that have roots in l10n
where contributors have little time, or have dropped away, and are
finding it hard to re-define their purpose.
- a good start : re-design the website
- seek help from other communities
- events
6. Hackerspaces
Make contacts with local hackerspaces and use them as outlets for
Mozilla work. If Mozilla launches a formal 'affiliated spaces' program,
be ready.
7. Under-represented regions (Albania, Turkey)
I'm calling out Albania and Turkey not because they don't have dedicated
individuals but because there was discussion about more potential to be
tapped into. Each country has it's own characteristics and needs.
Identify what they are and try to increase engagement. This can apply to
all communities of course.
--
Brian King | Mozilla Rep
https://reps.mozilla.org/u/brianking/