Grants:PEG/SarahStierch/MCN Conference/Report

Report accepted
This report for a Project and Event grant approved in FY 2011-12 has been reviewed and accepted by the Wikimedia Foundation.
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Project Goal:

Description of actual activities:

I attended MCN 2011, "Hacking the Museum" and participated in two panels where I presented two talks, Indigenous GLAMs and Wikimedia: Pros, Cons and Concerns and WikiProject: Public Art. I also participated in Lori Phillip's presentation about GLAM-WIKI Outreach and how GLAMs can get started. I also attended a number of other talks and activities related to the week. However, networking was a key aspect of the conference, and honestly the most powerful part of the conference.

What lessons were learned that could help others succeed in similar projects?

I've attended a number of conferences, there really isn't much to say, honestly :) It's good to have business cards and be confident and comfortable enough to speak with colleagues of all experience levels and knowledge levels (in regards to Wikimedia, that is). I was severely disappointed with one aspect: when I applied for this grant, MCN's website gave the appearance that the workshops were free (which I discussed enthusiasm to participate in on my application). After I received the grant, it was eventually announced that the workshops were going to cost money, money I did not have. A major disappointment, and a major complaint amongst a lot of attendees. I also would advise others interested in applying for participation style grants to make sure they have their per diem information correct (i.e. utilizing the US Federal GSA Per Diem Rates website). I had thought I had asked for enough but come my visit to Atlanta, I was severely underfunded for general needs/food.

What impact did the project have on WMF mission goals of Increased Reach, Increased Quality, Increased Credibility, Increased and Diversified Participation?

I have a nice pile of business cards to follow up with! This includes people interested in GLAM partnership opportunities ranging from throughout the United States and a variety of organizations. I also was asked to present at the MuseumsNext conference in 2012 in Barcelona about my work with Wikimedia.

Detail of expenditures:

Documentation of expenditures has been received by WMF.

  • Plane ticket: $269.40
  • Hotel: $922.20
  • Event ticket(s): $216.00
  • Expenses (per diem): 201.58
  • Total: $1609.18


Amount underspent in US Dollars:

n/a

Will you be requesting re-allocation of remaining grant funding?

No