Mephisto2

Well, I like the idea of a cafe. However, just like the boards, you would need "moderators"; ie, people who worked there and tried to encourage discussion etc. Of course, the moderators could be voluntary. But simply having a cafe with some comfy couches will not engender mature debate and discussion on its own.

Also, you say that if you sit down you will have to speak up. Just lost 85% of your customers right there. If they have to talk, instead of "lurk" you'll see most people move on to somewhere they can get their coffee without being hassled.

This then also means that the ability to meet new people will be diminished, as you will effectively has a disincentive for a lot of potential customers to drop by.

Thirdly, if income is based upon membership, you also will reduce the number of people dropping in (by definition). This also mitigates against the goal of "meeting new people"; those new people are not new at all, but simply other members.


So, I think a nice comfortable coffee house (with GOOD coffee - try Illy or Schibelo and none of that Starbucks crap), with regular discussions would be interesting. Schedule particular subjects, invite "guest speakers", treat it kinda like the local public library with nightly/weekly debates.

Have moderators/facilitators to help things along. Make internet facilities available so people can use the net during their discusions and debates.

Have a gaming room available (to generate income if for nothing else), with a few networked Xbox/PS2/PCs

DON"T sell alchohol, as you immediately removed all 18-21 year olds from your potential customers and, let's be frank here, that age group makes up a large proportion of TFPers.


Just some random thoughts.


Mr Mephisto