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The Future of BCF

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Hi Basil,

You really have created a very desirable place here on the web for the British car enthusiast and therefore it has great value. You and others have come up with some good suggestions for increasing the cash flow. Increased advertising, web hosting and subscriptions sound like good avenues to pursue.

Some other ideas .. Perhaps a percentage of classified sales could be instituted .. in the same way that ebay or paypal takes a percentage. Or there could be a 'BCF bake sale' event every so many months (or continuously) where people and vendors could post spare parts, art work, BCF clothing, books, services etc. for 'silent auction' and large percent of the proceeds (like 100%) would go into supporting BCF.

It sounds like there are some talented people here who could help you out with some of the maintenance and up keep to help reduce your 'work load'. Hope you can take advantage of that and let the community give back to make it easier for you to keep the doors open.

Cheers,
John
 
didn't realize it was a double post - I said it all earlier - withdrawn here
 
basil, im kindah on the other side of the fence here, im not a computer savy guy at all but i do know a bunch about mechanics, i often wonder about the amount of time, effort, and personal sacrifice both monitarily and personally you make in keeping the forum as wonderful as it is, i know i couldnt do it but in my small way i try to encourage your efforts by just washing out the problems we had with the first "t" shirt effort and trying to make an issue about receiving my l.b.c. mug hoping to cause interest and rally the troops into participating in its purchase, i would not feel any different about our great forum if you did put some bucks in your pocket you deserve it, heck Ive come to realize what your doing is a full time job, in the future i plan on having addition b.c.f. items in my home and continue telling our troops about it, wow come to think bout it if you asked just one dollar a year from our members in addition to what ever purchases we make it would help , one dollar who could argue? once a year on each members birthday how could we forget, if there is ever anything else i could help you with i will make myself available just dont ask me to stand on a street corner dressed as a jensen healey. thank you basil! :savewave:
 
Hi There Basil,

I got up this morn`n & saw your post.

This is usually the first place I visit daily.

I was "SHOCKED" and very "UN-PLEASANTLY" surprised to hear about a potential "SHUT-DOWN"!!

What came to mind was all the manufacturing that has been "SHUT-DOWN" in this country! Most recently "HERSHEY" will be shuting down their plants in Hershey, PA & Canada & moving to Mexico. "What else is new these days"!!

Basil, "DON`T SHUT-DOWN THE BCF" at any cost!!

I agree with all here that a small fee of approx. $10-$20 per yr. would be graciously given by all to keep this forum going for years to come. I also agree that you certainly deserve something for your time and efforts. Personally, I have purchased T-Shirts and cards to perhaps help your cause but those purchases were made cause I simply love LBCs and enjoy advertising my feelings at car clubs and shows. I`m "PROUD" to be a BCF member!!

To summerize: No one here wants to see the BCF go anywhere! We all need each other to keep the hobby going and growing!

Let us know what you want or need & I`m certain all the members will be more than happy to make your retirement more comfortable. Something has pay to get that E-Type on the road!!!!

Regards,

Russ
 
A thought Basil:

I pay $100 annual dues for my "other" hobby; for which I get
a monthly newsletter.

I would be happy to pay $100 annual fee for use of your BCF
on a daily basis as I do.

$10. ?? A glass of wine for the Mrs, a Coke Zero for me and
a tip for the barkeep.

Everyone who uses this forum can well afford for than $10.
in an annual user fee.

I mean, really. What's an hourly rate of an experienced LBC
mechanic go for? Maybe average $85. I certainly got hundreds
of hours of professional mechanic time from your forum.

d
 
Lots of good discussions here and I appreciate the willingness people have to "subscribe" but I really don't want BCF to become a pay BBS...if it continues it will have to be as a free resource to the members. With respect to advertising, I can understand how sometimes too much of that can be an annoyance on a forum and I would not want that either. On the other hand, consider where this hobby would be if all the British car vendors closed their doors tomorrow. I look at vendors as critical factors in keeping these old cars purring. Thus having them advertise, and members supporting them as well, is in the long term best interest of all of us. Other types of ads, such as those Google ads and stuff that is not related to the hobby, I'd not even consider regardless of how much $$$ I might be able to make. I'd much rather keep the focus of the forum on the British car hobby.

One area that was mentioned is that of classifieds. Currently, I have free classifieds with an option to make a donation on a voluntary basis. Well, so far, there have been hundreds of people take out ads, but I could count the number of donations on one hand. So, I was thinking of splitting out the classifieds such that selling parts are posting want ads would still be free with a donation optional, but ads for cars would require an up-front fee on the order or $10 per month the ad runs, up to a limit of 3 months. Would like to know your thoughts on that idea?

Web hosting is another area I "think" could be a big help. I haven't really pushed that much here and so far the only sites I've hosted are non-commercial and British car related. I was thinking I could open the hosting idea to personal sites of members whether car related or not and possibly small business commercial sites.

Anyway I appreciate all the ideas so far these are just some other thoughts I've had.
 
Basil - if web hosting on your server is increased ... and those new sites end up being "bandwidth intensive" (videos, etc.) ...

Isn't it likely that BCF would suffer? And your workload would substantially increase?

Also, you're running a recently-upgraded Beta version of the forum software; would moving to a "standard" version cut down on the bugs you described, and on your workload?

Tom
 
Hi Basil,

I agree with the classified section. A $10.00 charge for listing a car is very reasonable.

Whatever you may decide; "DON`T SHUT DOWN THE BCF"!!!

Regards,

Russ
 
NutmegCT said:
Basil - if web hosting on your server is increased ... and those new sites end up being "bandwidth intensive" (videos, etc.) ...

Isn't it likely that BCF would suffer? And your workload would substantially increase?

Also, you're running a recently-upgraded Beta version of the forum software; would moving to a "standard" version cut down on the bugs you described, and on your workload?

Tom
Click to expand...

Bandwidth use would be a concern, but if this were a business that is simply something I would have to monitor and ensure that the BW is sufficient to handle the load. It could mean buying additional servers and additional BW, which any hosting company would have to do anyway.

On the question of the software, yes it is possible that moving back to the old version would resolve some of the bugs, but it would not be as easy as it sounds. Also, even though I did a complete backup of the databases before I did the upgrade, moving back at this point we would loose every single post that has been made since the upgrade. I waited until the fourth Beta version to upgrade because at that point I felt that some of the new features outweighed the few bugs that might remain. I have reiterated to the developer about the lack of email notifications so hopefully they will fix this either in the next Beta version or in the final release version. I think they are planning one more Beta release before the final release. All I can suggest is patience at this point as I know they are aware of the problem.
 
Bas, if you opt to shut the site down, why not instead let a select (e.g., you select them!) group of active members purchase and/or operate the site while you step aside?

In additon, if you don't wish to sell it for a profit, you may simply turn the site over to a carefully selected group who may make decisions about the site's day-to-day operation (farm out the I.T. stuff to professionals?).

A number of business models could work, with support from key individuals/investors. Of course, you could sit on the board, preside over it, be a stockholder, or not as you wish.

At any rate, this thing now has a life of its own. Let's not let it die. Certainly, there's a successful equation for perpetuating what you've created.

I think the future of the site may involve increased commercialization (paid ads; member dues, etc.), but that's simply growth/evolution and can be controlled.

Ask the question, or take a poll. I think you'll like the answers.
 
vagt6 said:
Bas, if you opt to shut the site down, why not instead let a select (e.g., you select them!) group of active members purchase and/or operate the site while you step aside?
Click to expand...

That is something I just don't think I could do. It would be like selling one of my kids....hey, wait a minute! But seriously, I've actually had offers over the years to purchase BCF and/or the domain name, but just don't think I could, although I appreciate the thought. I am hoping that I can just figure out a way to make doing this viable. I'm not looking to get rich here, just have sufficient compensation to make doing it possible especially in later years when I've retired from the real job. If I could make it profitable somehow, then in all likelihood a lot more $$ would end up right back in the forum anyway to improve, expand, offer new things, etc.

There have been lots of good ideas here and this discussion has given me lots to think about.
 
Basil, I have been on and still registered on other sites. The BCF is the only one that I patronize every time I can. Usually two to four times a day. It is no doubt the best forum on the net for British car lovers. Not only the technical output from it's many knowledgeable members, but the friendliness that is conveyed to everyone who visits this site. To me, and to put it mildly, loosing this site would be like loosing a close friend, a friend that you look forward to seeing and talking to every day. I know that after retiring, you want to do some of those special things that you've wanted to do for years but never had the time and I'm sure that maintaining and financing this forum would limit your ability to do that. There must be a solution to the situation somewhere. I and I'm sure a lot of others hope you find it. Good luck. PJ

I WOULD SURLY MISS THIS SITE!
 
Basil, just as a suggestion, re: charging for auto ads, would it not become more cost effective to charge a percentage of the selling price rather than a flat fee? The higher-end the sale, the more BCF would make and it would still be affordable for the "little guy"!! Also, if I were you, in light of the preponderance of responses in this thread offering to pay a "subscription", I would not discount charging us a nominal membership fee that perhaps could gain us access to certain "special features" that would not be available to non-paying members! Perhaps establishing some kind of "committee" to assist you in the operation of the site could also be created to ease your workload of time spent running the show! There certainly seem to be a few members who seem capable technically!!
 
Basil said:
vagt6 said:
Bas, if you opt to shut the site down, why not instead let a select (e.g., you select them!) group of active members purchase and/or operate the site while you step aside?
Click to expand...

That is something I just don't think I could do. It would be like selling one of my kids....hey, wait a minute! But seriously, I've actually had offers over the years to purchase BCF and/or the domain name, but just don't think I could, although I appreciate the thought. I am hoping that I can just figure out a way to make doing this viable. I'm not looking to get rich here, just have sufficient compensation to make doing it possible especially in later years when I've retired from the real job. If I could make it profitable somehow, then in all likelihood a lot more $$ would end up right back in the forum anyway to improve, expand, offer new things, etc.

There have been lots of good ideas here and this discussion has given me lots to think about.
Click to expand...

Basil, in practically any scenario that does not involve shutting it down, you may have to relinquish some degree of control. The ultimate version of this is shutting it down (e.g., relinquishing ALL control). A lesser version might be turning the site over to others of your choosing, as I discussed earlier here.

The key is <span style="text-decoration: underline">control</span>. You now have all control and your operational philosophy reigns. However, you may pass that philosophy on! And, you may also retain any degree of ownership or control you wish. Again, a wide range of attractive control/ownership scenarios lay open to you.

You may view it not as "selling your child", but <span style="font-style: italic">simply giving away your daughter to marriage</span> (gosh what a goofy analogy!). Sure, you lose some control, but the "child's" future is secured. What's more, you get to choose the personalities that will control all decisions (you appoint a "board").

It is inevitable that the site must become more commercialized, but so what? The degree of commercialization is <span style="font-weight: bold"><span style="font-style: italic">controllable</span></span>!

My tuppence worth, FWIW.
 
Basil,

First and foremost...THANK YOU! While I am not a constantly active member in this community that you created and manage, I do appreciate all the time, effort, and $$$ that you put in for this 'world' we visit. Having been in the computer hardware and software business for over 30 years, I understand the planning, development, and implementation of websites of all kinds.

Second, being a person considering his retirement options myself, The true decision here is ' Is this really what you want or wanted to do in your retirement?'. This is something only you can answer. While I really do not want to see the vast knowledge base you have created be lost or the opportunity to kibitz with those in the British car hobby go away, we all have to understand, this is your life that is being discussed.

If you are interested in doing the things mentioned here just to compensate for the financial, are you then tying yourself to an anchor to keep you from the other things you wanted to do in retirement? If you are interested in doing those things to increase your financial state, no one here could blame you (or should for the 'free' time you have already donated).

If you are interested in asking people to 'share the load' here, I am sure that you will find that you have many friends in this 'world' that will help you in almost any way (myself included).

Getting input from all of us is ok, but the decision on how to move forward is between you, the Mrs., and the good Lord.
 
Basil,
My SBC is too new for this forum to address, and I don't take much from it except a whole lot of enjoyment. Please don't close down! I could easily stand more ads or whatever you choose.
And if it does all get a bit much for you, please pass it on. It's too good to let wither away.
 
My two cents here....

I liked your analogy about selling the BCF would be like selling one of your children. At the same time, we hope and pray and do the best job we can of helping our children grow so that they become self sufficient, move out on their own and then support us in our old age! :smile:

It seems to me that this amazing child that you have help grow and develope may be at the stage of standing on it's own and help to support you....you would still be there to guide it and oversee it's activities.....I think/hope this makes sense.

This IS a great website and I too come here many times a day, look at all the group postings, etc. One workshop I went to was about creating something that is bigger than it's creator. Something that will endure well beyond all of us. Look at all the major car clubs....the CCCA,and others, the Hershey Swap Meet and others....the NHRA, NASCAR....those things all started out small and look at them now... BCF could and should be in that category

When you are doing something you love, something you are passionate about, it is easy to not want to accept money or payment. I am a healing arts practitoner and I help people feel better. I truly don't like accepting money for what I do, but if I don't I can't continue to do what I do. Taking money for the work you do and have done with BCF is ok by me. I know you have said you don't want to get rich from the BCF. Let the BCF help you to help it. Let there be an income stream generated by the BCF that supports you and the BCF. I have the impression you will put the money to good and proper use. I pay to be a member of organization FAR less useful simply because they are all that is there. Add my name to the list of those willing to be a Supporting Member of the BCF. Many clubs and organizations are set up that way.

And on that train of thought...let people have free access to BCF for the first year or two or the first 100 posts, etc....if they are still coming to the BCF after that span they are interested in seeing it succeed...something to think about....

And I think that was more than 2 cents worth.... :smile:
 
:nonono: "Oh, the option of closing the BCF doesn't exist...I know where you live! <span style="font-weight: bold">AND I live in your backyard!</span>"

So closing BCF is not an option. I have told you many times that you should be paid and not just volunteer to maintain the site. I for one would be happy to pay an annual fee for the privilege of accessing the forum - both for fun and knowledge.

If, indeed, you want to continue as Webmaster (Noticed I capitalized it and made it gender correct.)I think you need to generate revenue. Using both subscription and advertising seems to me to be a good idea. Just look out Newsweek, GH, Readers Digest, etc. They all work because of subscription and advertising - why not this website?
 
Basil, I don't recommend trying to get help with the workload, as great as I know it to be. The result would be a mess, all good intentions notwithstanding. I don't know what your last (5-6 months ago?) small request for donations raised, I sent in $25 and reminded everyone on the MG forum to chip in. But that $25 didn't hurt a bit. We ALL get far more back in return by way of knowledge and camaraderie. Your reluctance to charge is interesting, but the willingness of so many to pay should not be ignored. Varying subscriptions could garner t-shirts, mugs etc.
To all the members, imagine what it will be like the morning after there's no more BCF.............not too pleasant eh? Basil, you are required here to run it the way you have been running it. you're the cog here, you know what's in your heart and must follow that, but I feel the members would pay. Remember please you've been doing this for several years without financial recompense. What could be better testimony to your success than having people offer to pay for your "baby"? I also would not have a problem with ads, as long as they weren't those lousy pop-ups with dancing shadows. GEESH!
 
Hi Basil
Have you considered selling banner space at the top of each page for commercial vendors? It would be ashamed to see the forum come to a close. I realize I have been here just a short time but you have adopted a bunch of fine folks. Also maybe to have more moderators would help give you some free time.
I don't think some of the members would mind taking the time to help keep the site the quality that it is.
Just my humble opinion .....:)
 
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