How can you build a programming community that lasts?

1 Define your purpose

Before you start looking for or inviting people to join your programming community, you need to have a clear idea of what you want to achieve with it. Do you want to learn new skills, work on projects, solve problems, or just have fun? Do you want to focus on a specific language, framework, or domain? Do you want to have a formal or informal structure, a fixed or flexible schedule, a large or small group? Having a well-defined purpose will help you attract and retain members who share your vision and values.

2 Choose your platform

The next step is to decide how and where you will communicate and collaborate with your programming community. There are many options available, such as online forums, chat apps, video calls, social media, blogs, podcasts, newsletters, or websites. You can also use a combination of different platforms to suit different needs and preferences. The main criteria to consider are accessibility, usability, security, and cost. You want to choose a platform that is easy to join, use, and manage, that protects your privacy and data, and that fits your budget.

3 Promote your community

Once you have your purpose and platform, you need to spread the word about your programming community and invite people to join. You can use various channels to reach out to potential members, such as online directories, events, groups, or platforms related to programming. You can also leverage your existing network of friends, colleagues, mentors, or clients who might be interested or know someone who is. You can also create and share valuable content that showcases your community's goals, activities, and benefits.

4 Engage your members

After you have some members in your programming community, you need to keep them interested and involved. You can do this by creating and facilitating opportunities for interaction, learning, and feedback. For example, you can organize regular meetings, workshops, hackathons, or challenges that encourage members to share their knowledge, skills, and projects. You can also create and moderate discussions, polls, surveys, or quizzes that spark curiosity, debate, and feedback. You can also recognize and reward members who contribute positively to the community.

5 Nurture your relationships

Beyond the formal or informal activities and events that you organize for your programming community, you also need to build and maintain personal and professional relationships with your members. You can do this by showing genuine interest, appreciation, and support for their work and goals. You can also offer and ask for help, advice, or referrals when needed. You can also celebrate and acknowledge their achievements and milestones. You can also create and join subgroups or circles that cater to specific interests or needs.

6 Evaluate your progress

The last step is to monitor and measure the performance and satisfaction of your programming community. You can do this by collecting and analyzing data and feedback from your members and platforms. You can use various metrics and indicators, such as membership size, growth, retention, diversity, activity, engagement, quality, satisfaction, or impact. You can also use various methods and tools, such as analytics, reports, dashboards, or surveys. You can also use the results to identify and address any issues or gaps, and to improve and innovate your community.