As noted here before, we upgraded the RTC web site a while back. In the process we installed a suite of modules called CiviCRM. They allow us to do a number of things for membership management. One of those we are starting to implement now: We will be building a list of tags (or keywords) of skills and associating those with RTC members. Then we’ll be able to allow users to search the member roster for people or companies that have specific tech skills. This could be a big benefit for tech businesses and people looking for assistance. I don’t know of any other place in our region where such information can be found easily. The range of skills and services could be quite great. After announcing the service today we have received an impressive list ranging from graphic design to C++ programming to network management support.
That’s a good idea regarding LinkedIn. I’ll run it by the board.
Bob:
I logged into my RTC account and didn’t see those options, but then I re-read your post and realized they are in the process of being implemented.
I am excited about this feature, and hope to be able to use RTC and RTC members more as technical and educational resources in the future. I have a few tidbits and suggestions to share.
First, when I worked in the Humboldt State University Office for Economic and Community Development, I launched the HSU Expertise Directory, based on MediaWiki, which lets folks browse faculty, staff, and administration based on where they went to school, expertise areas, languages spoken, etc. Might have some interesting ideas for RTC.
Second, I suggest that the RTC member roster include fields for LinkedIn profile URLs or other professional networking tools, which also allow people to list their expertise. I want to encourage more Humboldt people to used LinkedIn, because I think it is a useful way of building professional networks within and that span across the Redwood Curtain.