forumcon: the lean community, david spinks

The Lean Community

Simple Tactics for Building Thriving Communities

@DavidSpinks

Community = Product

Steve BlankCustomer Development

Eric RiesLean Startup

or Community

Validated Learning

The 3 P’s1. People2. Problem 3. Platform

Start talking to people

The 5 Whys

“I’m looking for a Giants community”Why?

"I want to connect with other die hard Giants fans.”Why?

“I don't like the existing forums.” Why?

“Everyone just trolls. No one talks about strategy” Why?

“I keep stats on every game and want to compare ideas.” Why?“It’s a hobby I do to relax after I get home from work.”

Add quantitative research

Minimum Viable Community

(MVC)

Start simple.

Is it working?

Membership

Membership1. Boundaries

“ There are people who belong and people who do not.”

– McMillan and Chavis

Boundaries

Membership1. Boundaries 2. Emotional safety

“Boundaries provide the structure and security that protect group intimacy.”

- McMillan and Chavis

Emotional Safety

Membership1. Boundaries 2. Emotional safety 3. A sense of belonging and identification

Belonging and Identification“The belief that one fits in the group, has acceptance by the group, and a willingness to sacrifice for the group.”

- McMillan and Chavis

.

Membership1. Boundaries 2. Emotional safety 3. A sense of belonging and identification 4. Personal investment

Personal Investment

“Working for membership will provide a feeling that one has earned a place in the group and as a consequence, membership will be more meaningful and valuable.”

- McMillan and Chavis

.

Membership1. Boundaries 2. Emotional safety 3. A sense of belonging and identification 4. Personal investment 5. A common symbol system

Common Symbol System

“Groups use these social conventions (e.g., rites of passage, language, dress) intentionally…to create social distance between members and nonmembers.”

- McMillan and Chavis

Influence

Fulfillment of Needs

Shared Emotional Connection

Pivot or Persevere

Community as a Business

Thank you!

@DavidSpinks

http://cmxhub.com

David@cmxhub.com