# Ideas and Planning

## Future Event Concepts

### "Sliced" Design Challenge Format
*Inspired by "Chopped" TV show format*

**Concept**: Head-to-head design competition with surprise challenges
- **Format**: Timed design challenges with specific constraints or materials
- **Community Engagement**: Head-to-head competitions create excitement
- **Skill Development**: Challenges participants to think creatively under pressure

### Community Outreach Initiatives

#### School Partnerships
- **Target**: Local schools and robotics teams for participation
- **Coordination**: Work with Lynn Fritz regarding scheduling and involvement
- **Educational Value**: Introduce students to advanced 3D printing techniques
- **Pipeline**: Create pathway from education to community involvement

#### Discord Integration
- **Community Input**: Create ballot/survey system for challenge suggestions
- **Voting Platform**: Integrate Discord and partner schools for voting
- **Ongoing Engagement**: Maintain community connection between meetings

## Event Structure Improvements

### Enhanced Show & Tell Format
- **Multiple Categories**: Organize different sections with specific themes
- **Recognition System**: Prizes for each category winner
- **Documentation Strategy**: 
  - Take photos of winners to share on social media
  - Record videos of winners for social media sharing
- **Hybrid Format**: Combine show & tell with competitive elements

### Prize Structure Evolution
- **Individual Category Winners**: Recognition for specific achievements
- **Overall Competition Winner**: Grand prize for best submission
- **People's Choice Award**: Community voting component

## Monthly Challenge Development

### Challenge Selection Process
- **Monthly Themes**: Set up rotating monthly design challenges
- **Community Input Process**:
  - Create ballot/survey system for challenge suggestions
  - Integrate Discord and partner schools for voting
  - Collect feedback during meetings

### Platform Integration
- **Downslash Integration**: Coordinate with Downslash platform for submissions
- **Cross-Platform Voting**: Enable voting across Discord and school communities
- **Documentation Sharing**: Streamline submission and sharing processes

## Implementation Timeline

### Short-Term Goals (Next 3 months)
- Complete October transparency challenge
- Develop November challenge theme
- Establish school partnership contacts

### Medium-Term Goals (3-6 months)
- Launch "Sliced" format pilot challenge
- Implement Discord voting system
- Expand community outreach

### Long-Term Vision (6+ months)
- Regular competitive events
- Strong school partnerships
- Multi-platform community engagement

## Community Feedback Integration

### Input Channels
- **Meeting Discussions**: Collect ideas during meetups
- **Discord Polls**: Online community voting
- **School Feedback**: Educational partner input
- **Organizer Coordination**: Regular planning sessions

### Idea Development Process
1. **Collection**: Gather community suggestions
2. **Evaluation**: Assess feasibility and interest
3. **Planning**: Develop implementation strategy
4. **Testing**: Pilot new concepts
5. **Refinement**: Improve based on feedback

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*This document represents ongoing planning discussions and community input. Ideas are subject to refinement and community approval.*