Feedback on an idea

[Klancenet]

I just had an idea for a forum that could be great, I thought does this solve a common problem and I could honestly say yes. The first idea I could say that about. Pro bono work, I searched that term and within the first 3 pages there was nothing to help people connect to other people that need the work done/want to do the work.

Graphic designers are always looking to get their portfolio started but not a lot of people want to pay them with no portfolio, same with programmers.

I do not have the money to create a social network but I think a forum would do just fine, what do you think?

[Ske]

You mean something like designerstalk.com?

It's already been done, but i guess you can still try.

[Klancenet]

I don't think that site is geared towards pro bono work at all... it's for designers... This site will be for everything that can be done online.

[8bit]

I think it's a great idea, maybe have profile pages for designers with an online portfolio, contact details etc. Have competitions possibly? There are free social networks online like phpizabi and dolphin. Maybe as well as graphic design allow web design too. The only problem I can see is that on DeviantArt a lot of people on there will do pieces for you if you ask as long as they are not too big. Ive had things done for me on there that I requested.

Best of luck!

[Ske]

Like 8bit said, you could start a social network off an existing social network like ning.
It lets you create social networks within a few minutes.

A forum is also an option, though in my opinion, less attractive.

Good luck!

[Klancenet]

The more I think about it the more I think that a social network may not be right for this type of thing. I think that a forum with different categories (Web Design, Graphic Design, etc..) and sub categories like logos, etc. would be great and maybe even a slight mod that could show ones contributions to the boards members. And yes even competitions could be held.

[kevtoon]

Wouldnt a social network form of site work better, where designers may "advertise" previous examples of their work for possible employers to look at?

[inle]

in my home country, we got a lot of designers looking for projects..
what I realised is that all of them have similar works or/and portfolio history & can't provide a special uniqueness & add value to their prospects'/clients' business..

It is a PRICE WAR & only the most senior & established ones got the upperhand..

Maybe it will be good to provide a platform so that it can help them discover their own uniqueness & to provide projects for them..
Currently, I am working on these..
Maybe you might like to explore this together..