I am introducing this as a new topic because I can't quite sync it with the others. This is for people who are contemplating start-ups. I spoke earlier about a need to use the under-utilized room in my coffee shop and that a coworking project would utilise the great environmental qualities of the place. I just returned from San Francisco and talked to shop owners and managers, and there was a consistent message that owners have a hard time maintaining these great spaces on the take-out price of a cup of coffee. There are signs about recommended (or required) purchases for working there, and charges for internet time (and hope for tips for the modestly-paid employees), but I think that everyone needs to be honest about their needs and what they bring to the table. A business plan formed around space that is already rented is a great start-up idea. Many people who might have the space are limited by energy or money or marketing skills, and a person hoping to start a space may not realize just how many dollars and how much time with no income even the best idea will require. However, if one will succeed in this kind of endeavor, it will require strong interpersonal skills compatible with this. The beauty of it, to me, is that it can be easily reversed if neccesary. A cafe with an upturn in business can reclaim the space, and a workspace with a track record and a clientele can more easily move. The workspace owner may well be approached by another cafe! This also underscores how sensitivity to aesthetics matters. I feel chafed by overhead until I go to a place like San Francisco or New York and cannot even do the math for the overhead. I know that many churches have attractive space in good areas that they struggle to heat and cool, and are eager for partnerships with entities that are compatible. Finally, I would like to see some cost analysis. I don't know how a nice workspace can be made available for $200. a month for all-day usage. I worry that the person running the space will be...well, really broke. --~--~---------~--~----~------------~-------~--~----~ You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups "Coworking" group. To post to this group, send email to [email protected] To unsubscribe from this group, send email to [email protected] For more options, visit this group at http://groups.google.com/group/coworking?hl=en -~----------~----~----~----~------~----~------~--~---
