Welcome to Think Tank, Social Lab and Ottawa FaceBook Garage
What is Think Tank? Short for Social Network Theory Think Tank (SNTTT). It’s a pseudo-regular informal meeting of people who want to learn about Social Network Theory, related software and business.
What is the format of Think Tank? The format is not fixed as it depends on what is learned about presenters and peoples’ needs. It tends to be: 10m social, 10m talk and about 10m of moderated discussion. After that people tend to stay longer and start their own little sharing and social sessions. Other formats we've used are, open mic., gab session, group work sessions.
What is the content of Think Tank? If it's social network theory related we tend to label it as Think Tank or SNTTT. If its Facebook related we label it as Ottawa Facebook Garage. If it's technical in nature we run it as Social Lab.
What is the schedule? Join the mailing list by emailing Darcy@Siteware.com. RSVP's are preferred so that numbers are known and also venue changes and other emergencies can be communicated better. So far most people have preferred Pub 101, 101 York at Dalhousie in the Market at around 5:30pm. If a speaker or group of people come forward with a different place to meet we go there.
Is it different than other Business Socials? We tend to meet in a Pub because it’s not very formal and is fun for many people. The slightly chaotic atmosphere makes people feel relaxed and enjoy hearing other opinions and sharing their ideas. Many organizers over monetize ($3 breakfast for $30. Great deal!), embed too much advertising content or try and create extremely large events. Think Tank supports a large group but only a small fraction come at a given time.
The intention is to run the SNTTT on Wednesdays and then on Thursdays alternate between Ottawa Facebook Garage and Social Lab.
Can I or my company present an idea? Yes, send the request to Darcy@Siteware.com. Send blurb about yourself, a blurb about your company, what format you prefer, if you need an overhead, what night you can make and if you prefer a venue.
I want peer review and feedback on something. Can Think Tank help? Yes, it's the whole point. Come, bring your questions. If you want more face time, simply bring it up with Darcy@Siteware.com.
What’s the philosophy? Everyone is welcome. We like to have a various types of people. We have successful business people, emerging business people, unemployed people and other smart poeople. People come to learn and share their ideas. They meet others that do the same and it strengthens the community.
Another point is that we have fairly frequent meetings. Around once per week. This allows for more diversity in our topics and for people to have more choice.
Is there an online discussion forum? We are going to start using the system at www.MercuryGrove.com which is run by Scott Annan. It’s still in the works but is coming so watch this spot for developments.