View source for How to Start a SIG

Starting a Special Interest Group (SIG) is a great way to bring members together around shared passions, skills, or hobbies. Learn more about existing SIGs on the [https://wiki.asmbly.org/index.php?title=Special_Interest_Groups Special Interest Groups wiki page].

Follow the steps below to create and host a successful SIG at Asmbly.

== Host Expectations ==
Hosting a SIG is a great way to take the lead in the community around a specialized topic. We encourage prospective hosts to attend a SIG before stepping up to run one, so they can get a feel for the format. All new SIGs must be approved by the Director of Outreach before moving forward.

=== General Requirements ===

* Each SIG must have '''one primary host''' responsible for the tasks in these guidelines. The host for an individual SIG meeting should be confirmed by the end of the previous SIG meeting.
** '''Co-hosts''' are encouraged as a support bench, but only one person should lead a meeting at a time.
* Must be an '''active member in good standing''' of the shop area involved, familiar with current policies and safety standards. This demonstrates your commitment to the community and helps establish trust with attendees.
* Should '''model and reinforce good cleanup and tool practices''' in line with Asmbly policies where applicable.
* Should '''not offer structured classes''' or 1:1 instruction — hosts should instead facilitate peer sharing.
* '''Collaborate with necessary shop area leads''' for topic planning, scheduling, and oversight.
* No solo decision-making on major topics (e.g., firings, special equipment use).  


{{Note|type=warning|text=⚠️ Note:  Hosts must be approved by the Director of Outreach and if applicable relevant Shop Area Lead. Members with recent or ongoing policy violations may not serve as hosts.}}

=== Communication ===
Consistency and clear communication are essential for maintaining engagement and ensuring successful events. Since SIGs are open to the public, they may be the first experience someone has with Asmbly. Accurate, timely communication helps us put our best foot forward.

===== Communication Channels =====

* '''Discourse is required''' as the official communication platform for all SIGs.
** Each SIG will have its own category under the [https://yo.asmbly.org/c/sigs/62 SIGs section].
** For attendees that prefer email list style communication, share this walk thru [https://yo.asmbly.org/t/help-how-do-i-get-the-mailing-list-setup-in-discourse/66 here].
** Notifications can also be customized following this walk thru [https://yo.asmbly.org/t/how-to-stay-in-the-know-on-discourse/14032 here].
*** SIG Hosts should watch or track their SIGs category to ensure communications from attendees are not missed.

===== Posts Expected of Hosts =====

* '''Announcements:''' Post about each meeting at least one week in advance.
* '''Recaps:''' Share a brief summary after each meeting.

===== Schedule Changes =====

* For planned changes, email [mailto:outreach@asmbly.org '''outreach@asmbly.org'''] '''at least 1 month in advance''' so our marketing team can update social media, newsletters, and other outreach materials.
* For last-minute changes, if a substitute host cannot be found:
** Post an update in the SIG’s Discourse category.
** Tag [https://yo.asmbly.org/g/leadership @leadership] to alert others.

===== Virtual Options & Recordings =====

* If offering a virtual option, it must be hosted through '''Asmbly’s Zoom account'''. Inform the Outreach Team when setting up your SIG if you plan to use this to get support and further information.
* '''Recordings are not required'''. When made, they are kept private to Asmbly leadership, staff, volunteers, and SIG hosts. This helps preserve the informal, conversational nature of SIGs and ensures attendees feel comfortable participating openly. 
** Recordings may be used to generate meeting summaries or recaps that are shared publicly.

===== Data Privacy =====

* Hosts must be mindful and respectful of attendee data. This means not sharing contact information, recordings, or personal details outside of approved Asmbly channels, and only using attendee data for the purpose of supporting the SIG.


{{Note|type=error|text=🛑 Note:  Anything outside of these guidelines needs to be discussed and approved with both the Outreach Team and all appropriate Shop Area Leads.}}

== How to Start a SIG ==

Starting a Special Interest Group (SIG) is a great way to bring members together around shared passions, skills, or hobbies. Follow the steps below to create and host a successful SIG at Asmbly.

=== Commit to Hosting ===

Hosting a SIG involves various activities, such as facilitating discussions, organizing projects, hosting contests, or simply sharing knowledge and experiences. Your consistent presence helps attendees feel welcome and engaged. If you’re unavailable to host a scheduled meeting, you’ll need to find a substitute to ensure the event runs smoothly.

Starting a new SIG takes time to build awareness and engagement. Hosts are expected to commit to running the SIG for at least 3–5 sessions before deciding whether to continue or cancel. This gives the SIG a fair chance to develop interest and build a core group of participants.

=== Choose a Recurring Monthly Time ===

Select a consistent time for your SIG to meet each month. This helps attendees plan their schedules and fosters regular participation. Ensure your chosen time doesn’t overlap with other SIGs, orientations, or other regularly scheduled events that use the same space, especially if you plan to use the Multipurpose Room (MPR).

=== Coordinate with Shop Area Team (if applicable) ===

If your SIG focuses on a specific shop area or equipment, you must coordinate with the Shop Area Lead for that space. This ensures alignment with area policies, proper tool usage, and effective communication about shared resources.

=== Submit Your SIG Idea ===

Use [https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSe3Usw5PrRTImkbH7yzSUYJqDfrG3eVf4OZYp76Ph3TgrCzbQ/viewform?usp=dialog this form] to submit your SIG idea to the Outreach Team for review. Be prepared to include the following details in your submission:
* Name of the SIG
* Recurring time and location
* Host info
* A brief description of the SIG's purpose and activities

The Outreach Team will contact you and let you know when your SIG has been approved. Asmbly will then add your SIG to the [https://asmbly.org/events/ event calendar] on our website and [https://wiki.asmbly.org/index.php?title=Special_Interest_Groups this wiki page].  Then our marketing team will start promoting it and you can start sharing it with your network as well!

{{Note|type=error|text=⚠️ Reminder:  Your SIG must be approved by the Director of Outreach before it will be scheduled.  Please do not start promoting until approved.}}




== Engage & Evolve ==

Keep your SIG dynamic by listening to participants and adapting as it grows. Encourage members to share ideas, showcase projects, and help plan future activities. Regularly check in to ensure the SIG meets community needs, aligns with shop culture, and supports Asmbly’s mission.

Feedback from attendees, hosts, leadership, staff, and volunteers can help you:
* Fine-tune the format and structure
* Find new ways to boost participation and engagement