Open for (small) Business

Overview
In this session I will show you how to create a small business network on a multi-site Drupal installation. I will be using the small business network within my own community as an example.

In small-town Canada we have seen an increase in the "cottage industry" as people in their 50s cash out of urban centres and move to the country. These micro-enterprise businesses often have only the owner (and their partner) as staff. Although the businesses offer a huge range of services, they have one thing in common--very small budgets. Individually these businesses can rarely afford expert technical support, sophisticated Web sites and beautiful Web design--but with a Drupal-based business network, small businesses can now afford to look like pros on-line.

Agenda

• The Clients
  • developing your client roster (my network includes: farmers, a gourmet restaurant, a bookshop, a naturopathic doctor and a retreat centre)
  • creating self-sufficient clients: training materials; Drupal help nights (my group has nicknamed themselves "The Drupesters")
  • managing expectations (their budget and your time)
• The Business Model
  • you are now a business coach, congratulations!
  • how and how much to charge: tips on appropriate prices
  • reduce, reuse, recycle: you must become efficient
• Technical (Drupal) Information
  • Drupal modules your clients will want
  • using template designs
  • tips on creating and using a multi-site Drupal installation

Goals
By the end of this session I hope that Drupal enthusiasts will see how they can turn too-small-for-me clients into a potential source of income.

Resources
Please come with your stories about how you've used Drupal in your (small business) community.