We recognize that the true potential of the AEC(Architecture, Engineering, Construction) sector lies in the collective knowledge, expertise, and innovation of its professionals. With this vision in mind, we created our community module of the AEC Smart Hub to serve as a catalyst for driving growth and progress across the industry.
At Birdflocks, our goal is to bridge the gaps and connect professionals, businesses, and educational institutions within the AEC industry. We envision a future where architects, engineers, designers, and construction experts can seamlessly collaborate, share insights, and access invaluable resources.
By creating specialized communities within Birdflocks, we offer a wide range of values to the AEC industry:
Collaboration and Networking: Birdflocks facilitates connections between professionals and businesses, promoting cross-disciplinary collaboration, and fostering a solid network that opens doors to new partnerships and opportunities.
Knowledge Exchange: Through our knowledge-sharing communities, we empower industry experts to share their insights, best practices, and innovative ideas, elevating the collective knowledge of the entire community.
Innovation and Growth: By showcasing projects and engaging directly with customers in brand communities, corporations can strengthen their market presence, driving brand loyalty and fostering innovation.
Educational Advancement: Birdflocks' communities for universities and academies create a platform for students, faculty, and alumni to exchange ideas, access valuable resources, and prepare the next generation of AEC professionals for success.
As an admin, the success of your community starts with a clear vision and understanding of its purpose. In this guide, we'll outline the steps to create a strong foundation for your community and attract the right members.
1. The Goal of Your Community
The first crucial step as an admin is defining the goal of your community in the short/mid/long-term. Ask yourself: What problem does this community solve, and what value does it bring to its members in which period? Are you aiming to facilitate networking among professionals, provide a platform for knowledge exchange, or promote innovation in the AEC industry? By having a clear goal, you can effectively communicate the community's mission and attract members who resonate with your vision.
2. Target Group of Your Community
Identify and understand your target group again in the short/mid/long-term —the core audience your community aims to serve. Are you creating a space for all AEC professionals, or do you have a specific focus on designers, architects, engineers, or construction experts? Knowing your target group will help tailor your community's content, discussions, and features to meet their specific needs and interests.
3. The Type of Community
Birdflocks offers four types of communities, each with distinct features and benefits:
Brand Community: Designed for all the organizations and business clusters in the AEC sector, this community provides a platform for showcasing their projects, engaging directly with customers, consumers, and their members, and building brand loyalty.
Learning Communities: Tailored for educational institutions in the AEC sector, these communities facilitate interactions between students, faculty, and alumni, enhancing learning and career opportunities.
Subject-Based Community: the communities where industry professionals can share their expertise and knowledge, explore opportunities, and connect with like-minded individuals in specific areas of interest.
In the future each community type offers customized features and experiences to cater to its specific audience, ensuring that members find value in participating.
4. Value Propositions for Your Members
As an admin, understanding and articulating the value propositions of your community is crucial in attracting and retaining members. Here are the key value propositions you can offer:
Networking Opportunities: Connect with a diverse group of professionals, potential partners, and industry experts to expand your network and explore collaboration prospects.
Knowledge Exchange: Access a wealth of industry insights, best practices, and innovative ideas shared by experts, contributing to your professional growth.
Opportunities for Growth: Engage in educational resources, webinars, and workshops to develop your skills, stay updated with industry trends, and unlock new career opportunities.
Showcase Expertise: For businesses and corporates, the community provides a platform to showcase projects, establish thought leadership, and engage directly with customers.
Supportive Ecosystem: Be part of a supportive ecosystem where members help each other, seek advice, and celebrate collective successes.
5. Kicking Off the Community and Securing Your First 20 Members
To establish a robust community from the outset, adhere to these fundamental five steps:
Catchy Title: Choose a title that matches your goals and attracts the right people.
Create Your Community: Complete all community sections, pick an eye-catching cover, and write a clear "About" section.
Welcome Newcomers: Send a friendly message explaining why joining Birdflocks is beneficial and how it helps the community grow.
Invite New Members: Continuously invite new members while empowering existing ones to invite others, creating organic growth.
Reward Key Players: Recognize and thank active members to make them feel valued, boosting community success.
6. Activating the Community and Getting Momentum for Growth
To activate and foster the community's growth, implement these strategies:
New Member Group: Create a space where new members can introduce themselves, ask questions, and receive support from their peers.
Automated Event Emails: Send automated emails to promote upcoming events, discussions, or group activities, encouraging members to participate actively.
Buddy Programs: Pair new members with experienced ones to build relationships and promote engagement, offering guidance and support.
Continuous Improvement: Regularly gather feedback, use Net Promoter Score (NPS) surveys, and monitor email metrics to measure the onboarding process's effectiveness and identify areas for improvement.
At Birdflocks, we are committed to creating a vibrant community that empowers AEC professionals. By following these guidelines and fostering meaningful interactions, we aim to build a collaborative space that drives growth and innovation in the industry. Welcome to Birdflocks and let's create something exceptional together!
