Tips on encouraging people to mash

Thu, 09/10/2009 - 10:20
Paula-r
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Joined: 09/10/2009
Points: 10

Hi there

I'm working on a mashup project in the UK and am finding it hard to identify people with the technical knowledge and inclination to mash and customise the data we've made available to them.  I think we need a couple of examples to get people thinking creatively about the different ways they can visualise data. 

I'd be interested to know whether mashing is also a niche activity in the US and if you hve any tips for attracting the right people to the site.

Any ideas gratefully received.

 

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Fri, 10/02/2009 - 12:53
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jess
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Joined: 09/23/2008
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Hi Paula,

That's an excellent question and one that shouldn't have gone unanswered. I think one of the first steps in motivating people to mash is articulating the value mashups offer. What problem does mashups help them solve?  For example, many of our customers and members of this community use mashups for solutions that support better decision-making.  But there are many other applications of mashups, of course.

Once you've identified the constraint/pain that mashups address, I find you have gained their interest but then it's important to gain their trust by showing examples of mashups in action.  You want to ensure your future mashers that this is a solid addition to their arsenal of problem-solving tools.

Here's a few links you might find helpful in getting people's interest and trust:

Examples of Mashups in Action:

Examples of Creating Mashups with Presto

This is just my opinion based on our experiences here in the Mashup Developer Community.  We'd love to hear what you see.

Jess