I’m no stranger to web development, but considering the tasks ahead of me, I recognize the fact that this site will require the assistance of members in order to work and function a little more effectively. Now, allow me to lay out what I think are some core ideas that will need to be implemented in this site if we’re to succeed:

#1: It’s got to look good. While I can do a basic design for the site, there’s no way in hell I have the time to program it. So while I can handle many of the design elements, the programming will require someone familiar with CSS.

#2: It needs to be practical. I’ve recently added forums, but I know this isn’t the ultimate solution. What would work better? Newsletters? Chat programs? Virtual environments like World of Warcraft?

#3: It needs to be accessible. An inevitable part of this thing is attracting new members to replace people who naturally come and go. Because the group also believes in transparency, how can we incorporate all of these elements into an easy to use site?

#4: It can’t be expensive. While the group has no income source, we will need to keep things cheap. That means using open source technology. What are the most effective in helping to run an organization?

If you have any thoughts, don’t hesitate to share them!