How to design a community - Preet Singh, DesignX

<p>Most of the budget spent on conferences isn't returned. The content isn't why people go to conferences. They're a moral booster and a networking opportunity. </p><p>Speakers are the hook, community is what keeps people coming back.</p><p>In-person conferences are still more profitable (for DesignX), mostly because they're charging less for tickets. Even though there are less costs.</p><p>Sponsors also are able to justify a higher-budget for the in-person conferences. The idea that they get a physical booth makes it easier to sell that higher price point.</p><p>When building a community, improve constantly. Focus on values. Axe people or aspects of the community that don't fit those values or goals.</p><p>Day 1 of starting a new community: identify what unites the community. To build a room you need the walls and a door. Some kind of constraint. Go as niche as possible, you can always go broad later. Find out how people are already connecting. It's not that different than building a Saas company, but it's a longer-term value play.</p><p>Start with an event. Not every group needs a Slack group. Start with a one time thing and grow from there. </p><p>Don't be afraid of collaborations and existing communities. See if there's some way you can work together with them to build your own unique vision. You can go farther together.</p><p>Start with great content when creating a conference. Make sure the speakers are great. Have a good delivery mechanism. Allow time for natural interactions. Optimize for authenticity. People are more forgiving of live-events, the flaws make it interesting and authentic.</p><p>Community building is an art not a science. Lean in to your own personal style.</p><p>Takeaways for virtual conference organizers:</p><p>- Get big name and interesting speakers to draw people in<br>- Create a sense of community to keep people coming back<br>- Address sponsorship concerns to get a higher price-point, why do they want a physical booth? How can you deliver that same value?<br> + Point out the