Project Development (Consultant)

February 2014 - August 2014

Evolving Culture of Science Engagement site

Problem

What kind of organization could Culture Kettle be and how would it function?

Peter Linett, the founder, had an ideas about a new way research and innovation could be completed in the realm of culture. He needed someone to help solidify his ideas, flesh them out into different possibilities, and assess the landscape for this kind of work.

Approach

I looked at different business models and drafted possible structures.

I worked with Peter to flesh out his ideas, define key players, and brainstorm potential business models. Generally, I helped him to critically develop this from idea into potential business structure, and better define what the value of this would be.

I researched different types of incorporation and funding models, and conducted a preliminary competitive landscape assessment, and created a draft 5-year growth timeline and budget.

Solution

Better defined idea of how the organization should grow and its value.

After seeing a concrete draft business plan, Peter and the team was better able to articulate what exactly we wanted to do (and not do.)

We developed a different idea of how Culture Kettle would grow and be funded throughout that process.

We better clarified that the vision was for new knowledge and conversations, not for consulting organizations within the current landscape.

Problem

Culture Kettle partnered with MIT to host the Evolving Culture of Science Engagement. We needed a final report to share with the attendees and key stakeholders.

Culture Kettle and MIT needed to develop a report of finding to share what happened at a symposium in September 2013. 

Culture Kettle wanted to have the report foster further conversation and action about how the flavor of public engagement in science is changing. This would also be used as the foundation for future research into the area.

Approach

I assisted with steps of preparing the report, developed marketing ideas for dissemination, and drafted two websites to share the report. 

I transcribed audio sessions from the symposium for analysis, provided notes, and suggested edits on content.

I collaboratively brainstormed ideas for dissemination to make the information more engaging. I analyzed the different ways to share the report and sorted them based on what financial support and time commitment would be required for each one.

Using the recommendations of symposium attendees  in the exit survey, I analyzed and prioritized which individuals would be best to partner with for sharing the report.

With the need for a new website to share the report, I drafted a new website, one each on Wordpress and Squarespace. I also found and hired a web developer to work with Peter on completing the final site.

Solution

The report is written, a plan for its dissemination is in place, and the new website is almost finished.

The core team is in the process of finalizing the dissemination plan and communication strategy.

The documents I created are being used to help inform them.