Porch2Porch -- what we're about

Background

Porch2Porch represents an effort to support local Indianapolis neighborhood and community groups through Internet technology. This can take place in a variety of ways. The phases below identify the game plan. Phase 2 is imminent.

Phase 1

So many people find information on the Internet today. It's becoming essential for local groups, whether large or small, to communicate its mission and activities through a website.

The groups that Porch2Porch has supported have come naturally -- neighborhood and historic organizations located largely in Indianapolis. Through a long-time association, it was an appropriate next step to devote time to creating and enhancing their web presence.

Phase 2

Porch2Porch will also initiate websites which help residents of Indianapolis and surrounding areas appreciate the richness of our community. Farmer's Markets, home tours, and others are just some of the projects on the docket.

Feel free to bookmark this site and revisit to find the latest updates.

Phase 3

Static websites are a good start for any organization. They provide "findability" on the web, help communicate a group's message, and help a group expand its charter in a new medium.

But, groups are dynamic, with a constant flow of information between members and between leadership to members. This helps the group respond to ongoing as well as emergency issues. Archived information provides valuable guidance for new members and supports current decisionmaking. Clean communication helps keep everyone on the same page.

Porch2Porch is undergoing an infrastructure upgrade to a Content Management System. This will provide customized tools similar to a social network for group communication: blogs for leadership communication, forums to discuss issues, a wiki for broad coverage of information and calendars to keep all informed of upcoming events. The ability for groups to manage changing content makes this a cost-effective solution without the need for developer intervention.

This platform will provide excellent online support for the living and breathing organizations that make use of it.