Shutting Down ElixirClub
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After six months, today I announced ElixirClub’s closure. For context and for those many souls who did not know:
ElixirClub is (was/hopped to be) an outcome-oriented community that helps Elixir developers finish their side projects.
I ran the site on Circle, hosted some weekly events and async project update threads – but the hard truth is that I was not able to create even the modest-sized community that I was aiming for.
There are reasons and lessons to be learned about pricing, pitches and what not. Ultimately it was very niche target and did not have a strong marketing angle.
I thought it was best to close it down, issue refunds (automated and manual) as best I can and move on. To what? I have no idea.
There is a awful bad taste anytime you put you and a side project of yours out there, …and it fails.
It’s been many years since I had a solid side project win and I’d be lying if I did not also share, I feel like I’ve lost some of the side project drive I’ve had in the past.
I am trying to “just keep swimming” as it were and even today have a new little side project in the wings, but I’m really hoping for a win soon™.
About the Author. Mike Zornek is a developer and teacher focusing on product design and development with a heavy focus on Elixir and LiveView. In between his projects, Mike helps other teams through consulting. During off hours, he enjoyed watching Phillies baseball and playing relaxing video games.
Hopefully, you found interest in my scribbles. If you have commentary or a response, I'd love to hear it.