Chapter/Start-Up
International Game Developers Association
IGDA Chapter Start-Up Guide
ABOUT THIS GUIDE
The IGDA Chapter Start-Up Guide is a great reference for volunteers interested in starting a new IGDA Chapter. The following suggestions are offered as general start-up advice, but chapter organizers will need to determine how best to serve the specific needs of developers in their area.
We strongly advise chapter organizers to also read the IGDA Chapter Policies and Procedures Manual, which details more key information to help your chapter grow and operate (e.g., improving meeting attendance, handling chapter finances/sponsorships, etc.). Special thanks to Steve Meretzky, founder and organizer of the IGDA Boston Chapter, Post Mortem (meeting since 1999). The material in this document draws heavily upon Post Mortem’s many years of success.
I. PURPOSE AND BENEFITS OF AN IGDA CHAPTER
IGDA Chapters connect game developers in local communities around the world. Through regularly scheduled meetings and events, chapters provide an opportunity for professional game developers to interact with peers (and others interested in game development) on a local level.
Having an IGDA chapter present in your city allows for:
- Employees from separate companies to get sense of larger community.
- Opportunities to learn and share ideas.
- Networking.
- Industry outsiders to connect with professionals.
- Fun, social meetings.
- Chances to learn about the IGDA and its activities. Over 80 local groups currently meet in cities around the world, with more forming:
II. GETTING STARTED
Building a new IGDA Chapter is a multiâ€step process that requires planning. Use the following nine steps to guide the effort:
1. Establish an Organizing Committee
6. Promote Your Meeting To Local Developers
9. Repeat
III. IGDA RESOURCES & REFERENCES
2. Contact Info
3. Useful Links
IV. Chapter Guide
Once you have established your chapter a very important resource will be the Chapter Guide. This manual will assist you in keeping your chapter going.
