"SHOULD TMP have a presence at the big wargame events?" Topic

Should TMP, or a representative of, be present at the big USA, UK, and European wargame events to promote this great site and service to the wider wargame/miniature figure enthusiasts, and increase membership?

And should TMP merchandise be on sale …a tee-shirt, or beautifully crafted 28mm miniature figure, or bottles of Bill's Brew beer and pretzels?

(for example, a miniature like the old soldier fallen on hard times, sculpted by Steve Barker)

link

Not for me to decide.

Many moons ago, folks discussed a TMP flavored name tag that visitors could print with their TMP moniker applied. Don't think it ever took off.

I would think some advertising would be in order. Even at the smaller shows I talk to a lot of people who are unaware this site exists.

I'm always open to suggestions.

I know the staff editors would love to go, but the air fare would be enormous.

His money and time would be better spent having a stack of fliers by the registration desk.

Bill,

Perhaps you could find locals to represent TMP at these shows; this would certainly save you on travel cost. With so many members from all over the world, surely you could find people you trust, who live near the venues in question, to represent TMP at these various events.

Kevin

Represent how? If they run an event, how would it be different than any other event? If they man a table, where would it be, in the vendors area?

Most of the glossy wargames magazines had a presence at Salute yesterday, as did a number of online wargaming forums, busy touring the show doing interviews and taking photos. It wouldn't have seemed out of place if Bill had been there doing the same thing. Or at least the same thing at major US events

+1 Kevin C
+1 David Manley

If they man a table, where would it be, in the vendors area?

Probably not. Vendor tables cost money, so if you're not selling something it's a pure loss. Also, if you're not selling minis, dice, books, or terrain, it's probably weird and offputting.

Represent how? If they run an event, how would it be different than any other event?

Well, first, you would put the site's name one it as the sponsor.

It could be different by having the TMP community use the site to design the scenario. Maybe a thread for ideas, a poll to select, another thread for refinement, then a poll to select. Or a TMP contest where you get a byline for the event. Or you could contact some of the more active members and offer to sponsor their attendance for putting on a couple of games.

Any way you do it, make sure to journal the event on the site, providing info at the site (TMP URL and directions, maybe a QR code link). This is something that Twitter and FB are useful for … a quick announcement "Go straight to the XYZ event update". And, of course, a (sticky?) news link on the front page.

"His money and time would be better spent having a stack of fliers by the registration desk."

Which sounds reasonable to me. I would also buy an advert in the PEL or show guide. I doubt it would be very expensive at the smaller shows.

Dn Jackson – +1

Do I not attend as many shows as I can? Am I not wearing my TMP handle on my name tag? What else do you want?

Little Wars is in less than three weeks. I am open to suggestions Bill.

I rather like where this thread seems to be going. I hope The Dear Editor will consider making a call for volunteer "reps" to do some interviews, report (not "critique") on games played by rules/subject/etc. Obviously wearing a TMP T-Shirt and/or badge and distributing basic business cards to any and all who will take one will help.

Reports, reviews, interviews can then all be posted here, possibly even on a new board, moderated by The Dear Editor(s) of course, but entirely submitted by the "reps."

For those who don't attend conventions, or at least some specifics, this might be a way of reporting what's popular generally, by region, or even country. As a few convention seasons come and go, it would be possible to gauge what rules, subjects are coming in and going out of broad play. There should be nothing made of a rules' ascendency or decline beyond simply noting it.

Similarly, reports on attendance from a TMP Rep might be made, with specific numbers (if the local con authorities will share them, or their own best guess). Numbers of vendors and some feedback from them about the event would also be revealing.

What I would NOT encourage--only because TMP does not need self-generated controversy--would be its getting into a "police" or "whistle-blowing" posture, pointing fingers of blame. When a report comes in, The Dear Editors can exercise their prerogatives if any portion of it seems unfair, unsubstantiated, or just plain explosive.

Certainly, new membership is a Good Thing for also obvious reasons, and such reports/interviews/etc could be a new service to the TMP's readership generally.

No, I'm not volunteering (too old, creaky, and sedentary), but there should be plenty of young lieutenants eager to be mentioned in dispatches who would offer their services on a local basis.

I really think there is the kernel of something original and unique here….

TVAG

Salutations, gentlefolk !

IMHO, it might be good to have a small ad in the program, or some fliers and/or business cards, telling the world that TMP exists, and what it does. If thee bloweth not thy own horn, who shall bloweth it for thee ?

We might also announce an 'in person meeting' for TMP members at a convntion – '9:30 PM Saturday in the hotel lobby', mayhaps – for anyone interested.

Perhaps a reciprocal advertising arrangement? Space in the Newsletter/Program Book in return for Banner Ads. (Still have time Bill for Little Wars)

I really like kcabai's ad swap idea.

I've sometimes introduced myself as a TMP member and let them know my call-sign.

I've sometimes introduced myself as Tango.

TMP has been around since 2000. At least that's what it says in the Editor's profile. Possibly longer.
If he hasn't seen fit to attend miniatures conventions in that time, why start now?

I am sure if Bill saw a benefit he would.

Corporeal or supernatural?

We had an editor (Julie) come to Bayouwars a bit back. She played in a few games I was in.

Did anything happen?

@Stryderg, I printed my name tag up but did not see anyone else. I worked the GM and Events desk so I thought I would see some. I didn't. So it appears to not have taken off.