05/20

== Title == Hackspace structure and management

== Proposer == Marion Catlin @mario

== Date proposed == 19 October 2020

Date for Decision

Tuesday 27 October via Zoom meeting after clarification

Cost

no cost involved

What is being asked for

That, following a Zoom meeting on Tuesday 27 October, 8.30pm we trial this structure (details laid out in pdf document) which is essentially a formalisation and clarification of the way we have successfully built and run the Hackspace over the last 6 years but with modifications and adjustments to address issues that were raised during the review, as a result of the Hackspace membership increasing, more space and activities and the strains of Covid, which means we can't see each other face to face so easily. Also, over time, our processes lapsed and need re-stating.

Through this proposal, we are addressing decision-making, transparency, an AGM and clear lines of communication - that is an Admin Team to take care of day-to-day management and decisions, a team of Lead Maintainers to look after equipment tools and areas and a strategic Core Team to sort out issues, make bigger decisions that affect the whole Hackspace and membership, sort out grievances and be a final arbiter.

The model generally is one where the members run the space for the members (legal status - an Unincorporated Association) which operates in an open-source way with all members having the choice to be involved (or not) in the running of the space by being proactive, making suggestions, offering opinions and taking on roles. Other hackspace such as London Hackspace operate a Do-Ocracy where if members want to do or buy something, they make a reasoned request and if there is not significant objection, it is considered approved and they are able to take forward an action. This is a more agile way of running the space than waiting for committee meetings and approval for changes and purchases.

This is a valid and tested alternative to a more traditional elected committee system, which would take more work to set up and operate and is not preferred by many members, although some members are in favour.

It should be noted that whilst the review uncovered some clear lapses and failings, most members are happy with the way the Hackspace is currently run. Some necessary improvements have been put in place already and will be reviewed and modified as we see how they work - eg this proposal form, the Wiki, better communications etc

Why/how this will be good to have

It will be good to have a comprehensive document which lays out the basic structure of the space, who to talk to and how to make things happen within Norwich Hackspace. It offers a starting-point against which to assess how we work as a group.