In this step, I want you to sketch out the why, what, who, where, when, and how of your program. Let's do it together.
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Get out a piece of paper, and write responses to each of the following questions:
Why do you want to build a beginner factory?
Is it for fame? Glory? Riches? Or, do you just want to build a strong foundation for your band? There are no wrong answer here. Just write things down, and use this time to make sure you're really clear on why you're doing this.
What is your beginner factory?
This may seem like an odd question, but it's important that you can explain what the beginner factory is. Practice writing a sentence or two describing what the beginner factory is, and what it's meant to do. It'll help you explain to others in your band (and to prospects) what this is all about.
Who will be involved in your beginner factory?
Who are the key people that will make this work? Write the names down, and what their roles will be.
Important hint: In the beginning, keep this list of names VERY small. Essential personnel only! Later, you can expand the team.
When with the program get up and running? When will it be at full capacity?
Set some timeline goals. Try to get this up and running as soon as humanly possible. Write down when that is, and perhaps why it's worth the push to get it done by then.
Next, put down a date where your program will be filled to the brim, regularly "churning out" beginning pipers and drummers into your organization!
How are you going to do it?
Write down answers to the following:
- How often will you meet with your beginners? (Hint: less is often more!)
- Where will that be?
- What materials will you need to make these meetings happen?
- What people will you need to make these meetings happen?
- How are you going to handle Beginner Materials such as practice chanters, sticks, pads, physical workbooks, etc. (see previous step for a refresher)
- Failsafe plan - consistency is going to be the key - how are you going to be sure can you can replicate your process, without fail, far into the future? In other words, how simple can you make this? How can you design the process so that, when you're ready to step back from the process, things can continue to run without you?
- What specifically are going to be the “goal posts” for learners earning their spot in the band?
It's normal and natural for your answers to these to change over time, but for now, ensure you are clear on all of this, so we can build our first iteration of your Beginner Factory.