Okay, I realize it's not just for the event, that it has use ongoing...but it is still cool it can bring an event alive for more people.

This IS cool, Brad! Thanks for the heads-up. Been bummin' I can't be there -- now I can feel like I'm hip again. Unbelievable! The age of single-use iPhone apps for events is upon us. Use it for a few days, then -- zap! -- on to something else....

So, now I 'spose Eric Norlin will want one for Defrag? :-)

cheers,
Graeme

Seth, congrats. Want to talk with you today about this.

cheers,
g

Hey, Marshall -- just read all your notes and, yes, I totally agree that no consumer-related startup launching today should ever possibly be without *somebody* -- the CEO, the vp mktg, or other senior member of the founding team -- functioning in the role of managing the startup's "community." They just better be a damn good communicator.

Their world includes the online community that represents both prospective customers/users, as well as strategic partner companies, possible future investors, future employees, and more. (Not to speak of various people and constituencies in the _local_ community where the startup is based.) But I totally agree, having worked with so many startups now, that the scope and responsibilities of this job will vary widely depending on the startup's unique situation and market dynamics.

I also agree with previous commenter Ken Sheppardson: the term "community manager" needs to be defined or clarified. We're hearing it a lot lately, but maybe it's just been bandied about so much that it's becoming kind of meaningless.

Perhaps thinking in terms of a "listening manager" would help a lot of startup founders better come to grips with what this job is all about.

cheers,
Graeme Thickins
vp marketing
doapp inc.
www.doapps.com
Minneapolis