Youth Workers discussing their youth work in the North of Ireland

Future of the Network

I would like to ask for your assistance. I would like your feedback on the network and its future.

I am considering closing the youth work Northern Ireland network. As you may know the network is hosted by ning and they charge a monthly fee (approximately £15). While not a lot, this does add up over the year. The network was not set up to generate a revenue, nor has it ever done so. In addition the traffic to the site has seen a marked reduction the last 6 months.

Therefore I am considering closing it. I would appreciate your feedback. Should we keep the network?, How can we increase use if we do keep it? And how do we pay the £180 it costs each year to run?

I will follow up in about 3 weeks time and let you know what feedback I receive and what we decide to do with the network.

Many Thanks

Alastair

Network Creator

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Replies to This Discussion

Permalink Reply by Tom Brennan on September 22, 2011 at 16:07

Hi, it is interesting to read all the comments about the future of the site and costs, etc. Maybe if you look at why it was originally set up, and see now (a) if that has changed (b) if so/not - then why (c) and then if these aims can be replicated on Facebook or blog or Yahoo group, etc for no cost...also would any of these serve in a better way to promote the site and increase the numbers, ideas and relevance? If there is passion and strategy for keeping the site, maybe a fundraiser, or sponsorship or nominal amount per member ensuring could work..

I find the site useful and informative, but dont use it very often now! Maybe because there are fewer 'updates' (because it has slowed down - vicious circle!) and maybe because some of this information is already available through other outlets...

Thanks again for all the work and information,

Tom