Talk:March 2013 WMUK media event

There was an useful background discussion that led to this event, which you can now read below.

The event would be a meet and greet for journalists and is still fluid in format and substance. Thanks. --Stevie Benton (talk) 16:52, 13 November 2012 (UTC)

Why?

There is a need for Wikimedia UK to develop closer relations with journalists as a way of furthering the aims of the charity. Better relations with journalists makes it easier to share stories for publication and also shows that we are an organisation that is accessible for comment and opinion.

What would it look like?

There would need to be space for 20 or so journalists (minimum) in the fields of technology, education and open access. If possible the event should take place in the basement of the Wikimedia UK offices to keep costs down (if there is sufficient space). However, a larger space may be appropriate.

The event would take place on a weekday evening, preferably a Tuesday or Wednesday, and would begin at about 6pm.

What would happen at the event?

The event will provide the opportunity for journalists to learn more about specific Wikimedia projects.

There will be some short introductory presentations by various key staff and volunteers. Jon would perhaps welcome people to the event, Stevie would provide some context about how Wikimedia UK fits in to the global movement. There would be a short talk about our work in GLAM and another from someone involved in our education work. There would then be an exhibition-style session where journalists could circulate and ask any questions they might have.

There would be a variety of “stands” dotted around the space, each staffed by a staff member, volunteer or trustee. Each stand would have a different focus – Wikimedia UK, Wikipedia, Commons, GLAM, Wikipedian in Residence... Wouldn't need to be a big deal, but would be worthwhile having people on hand to speak about topics that may not be common knowledge among the journalistic audience.

Costs

To create an event like this wouldn't be significantly costly, especially if we are able to hold the event in Development House. If the event is held elsewhere there would be a cost for venue hire (unless we can source a venue donation in kind). The other cost would be some catering, although this could be kept to a reasonable amount. As a ball park figure, let's say £15 per person for 30 people = £450. This isn't based on anything other than guesswork at this point. The catering would not include alcohol as it is inappropriate for us to spend charitable donations in that way.

The only other costs would be travel for volunteers to attend (and, if absolutely necessary, overnight accommodation in very limited cases) and for any printed materials we prepare especially.

Around £1,500 would be sufficient for the event (this figure is a place holder only – the event isn't fully costed at this point)

Timings

It is proposed that this event takes place around February / March 2013. This is far enough in advance that diaries may still be relatively clear for our target audience. This also makes it more likely that a suitable venue will be available (if required).

Target audience

Aside from the main news media outlets (BBC Online, Telegraph, Guardian, Independent, The Times, Mail Online if we must) we should consider red tops and free sheets too – Mirror, Metro, Evening Standard.

Tech press should also be invited, such as Stuff, Wired etc.

Education journalists too – Times Education Supplement, Guardian Education etc.

GLAM publications should be included also.

Please make suggestions for other journalists / outlets you'd like to see in attendance. All welcome.