: Message posted on Stardate 06071.6 at 2002 hours
: Posted by Edgar Cramer in response to earlier message.
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: : But I don't want to debate the differences between the two clubs. So I ask that you do not respond to the above question instead I would like you to explain how you intend to "Advertise. Advertise. Advertise." with "more stable, and established, groups" yet refuse to go into a banner exchange with a stable and established group whose membership total is 2.5 times larger then STF's current membership total?
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: : Eddie
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: After giving this some thought I would like to hear all candidates position on the above question so Jack, Mandy and Sarah if you could please answer this as well it would be appreciated.
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: Thanks,
: Eddie
Sure thing, Eddie!
Jack and I worked on this post together, so it's both of our perspectives knit into one. I hope that's ok!
We believe that this is a vital topic for the future of STF. It is an established fact that our membership numbers have been on a slow decline for a number of years. Something has to be done about this! Roleplaying is already starting to suffer as a result: recruitment for ships is extremely competitive and this term has already seen the decommissioning of two ships. All of this is due to declining membership.
We intend to address this. There are two elements to our campaign about membership. As we have previously stated, we intend to work hard to retain our existing membership through training, support, better communication, and a pleasant environment. We want to not only get new members, but retain the ones we already have.
The answer to your question, Eddie, forms the basis of the second part. STF has to advertise. In the beginning, we were a fairly unique environment and became a focal point for many roleplayers, but now the market is wide open with clubs. Many are better known and placed to get the attention of a role-player.
So, our focus is simple. We want to establish links and banner exchanges with other clubs, although merging with any other clubs is something we don't intend. We won't judge a club based on their internal politics and adherence to canon, but on their posting style, approachability, and enthusiasm. In the end, for any partnership to work, both sides have to be able to gain.
We intend to be approachable for our members who may participate in or know of other clubs. We will be open for discussions about advertising and banner exchange. We certainly will pursue the offer for discussion about this with Ajje Games. We intend to find the best clubs to exchange with; ones with a strong membership base and a similar style to our own. We want to be proactive and talk with any club who wants to share our drive forward. We believe wholeheartedly that members should feel they can be part of any club without penalty and that we can offer potential members a great place to be.
This will help address our current issues and help to ensure STF's long term future. We intend to put STF back on the map!
We hope this addresses your question, Eddie!
Sarah & Jack
Hemenway/Dipper: It's YOUR club!