2024-04-05 Midwest Planning Meeting
Date
Apr 5, 2024
Participants
@Jon Dunn
@Kirsten Leonard
@Jill Morris
@John Weise
@Carolyn Caizzi
Goals
Discuss hosting a Samvera regional meeting in the Midwest to replace the national Samvera Connect conference this year. Determine location, timing, themes, and audience.
Notes (AI created)
Key Takeaways:
The meeting will likely be held in Indianapolis on September 25-26.
Accessibility will be a major theme, focused on user experience/management rather than just software development.
Attendance goal is around 50 people.
50, 40, 30 person room and maybe auditorium at IU Indianapolis hosting.
IU Bloomington contributing catering up to $3000. PALNI will contribute additional catering needed. PALCI might be able to as way to keep from charging conference costs.
Topics:
Regional Meeting Purpose
Opportunity to engage a broader audience than the national Connect conference
Can incorporate developer-focused sessions but also focus on users and adoption
Important to make it useful for attendees and structure it so they don't feel overwhelmed
Location & Timing
Late September/October best time period to avoid conflicts
Midwest location makes sense regionally; Indiana is central though some have concerns
Indianapolis recommended as convenient with more amenities than other Indiana options
Dates flexible depending on venue availability
Themes & Audience
Accessibility a key focus - both software and content management
Developer-focused sessions could be included as a track
Outreach to potential new adopters is another opportunity
Logistics
1.5-2 days recommended for those traveling
50 attendees max so smaller spaces needed, not a large plenary room
Budget ~$10K for catering, AV, etc. but facility may be free
Next Steps:
Confirm Indianapolis venue and dates
Refine program based on themes and audience
Promote meeting to potential attendees