Frequently Asked Questions
What is TOG?
TOG is a group of individuals who have come together to form an inclusive community interested in the pursuit of innovation in science, technology, modern culture, and creative arts.
What is a Hackerspace?
A Hackerspace is a physical space where people come together to pursue shared interests. TOG is a Hackerspace in Dublin and a number of other Hackerspace groups are forming throughout Ireland.
Where is the space?
Our current space is in Warehouse Unit C, Chancery Lane, Dublin 8, Ireland. Location Link.
Why?
Dublin has a very centralised public transport system and because most members use public transport we decided that the space should be within walking distance of O’Connell Street Bridge.
What do you need a space for?
The space provides shared physical resource that are general beyond the reach of an individual, but it also provides the opportunity to work together and avenues for inspiration and collaboration.
I can do all I want in my attic/garage/shed?
Maybe but you are limited by your own imagination, knowledge and finances. TOG’s members have a wide range of interests, skills and knowledge that you could use in your next project.
What if I don’t live in Dublin?
Check out the list of active and planned hackerspaces in Ireland.
What if there is no hackerspace in my area?
Start one. There are loads of guides on starting your own hackerspace on hackerspaces.org. Also contact us maybe we can help.
How do you fund the space?
TOG’s fixed costs are funded by a monthly membership fee. Additional funds are raised by donations, which are used for equipment and other resources for the space.
What are your fixed costs?
Fixed costs include: rent, council rates, electricity, gas, internet, insurance, etc.
How much is your monthly membership fee?
The rates as of January 2010 are, a standard rate of €50 per month and a starving hacker rate of €30 per month.
What is a starving hacker rate?
This rate is targeted at students, the unemployed, and the low waged; and tries to accommodate those with a reduced income.
The rates are still too high!
Unfortunately Dublin is a very expensive place to operate a Hackerspace. But economies of scale can help because we have fixed overheads, having more members means that we can reduce the membership fee.
Would you accept a government grant, corporate donation, or sponsorship?
Maybe. It all depends on the strings or obligations acceptance would place on the space or members.
Can I visit?
Yes please do. We have a number of regular events when you can visit. But please let us know when your coming beforehand so someone will be there to let you in.
What should I bring with me?
Depending on the event bring a laptop, gadgets, etc., also bring along your ideas and an open mind.
Do you allow people to sleep over in the space?
No for non-members. Full members have 24/7 access so can stay in the space as long as they want, but the space is not an alternative for having a home.
What are your members interested in?
Various aspects of computers, networking, programming, electronics, robotics, radio, music, art sewing, and much more.
I like the idea but I don’t think I’d fit in?
We’re a very accommodating and diverse group of people, so as long as you’ve interest in learning or getting involved you should fit right in.
How can I get involved?
The first thing is to visit the space, then join the mailing list and the IRC channel, but most of all participate and interact.
Are you looking for new members?
We are always looking to grow the community at TOG.
How do I become a member?
Ask a member in the space for a membership form, fill it in and return the form to a committee member. At the same time you can arrange payment of the membership fee by standing order or cash.
What happens next?
Once the form has been received and payments have started you will then become a probationary member. Probationary membership lasts about 3 months and provides the opportunity for other members to get to know you and you to know them. After the 3 month period a decision will be made by the membership and if agreed you will become a full member.
What are the benefits of being a full member?
Full members have a key and 24/7 access to the space, and have the right to participate in the decision making process of the organisation.
How old do I have to be to become a member?
All members are currently at least 18 years of age.
How can I get in contact?
Use the details on the contact page.
Is there a way to find out about your activities?
Join the IRC channel, mailing list, twitter, calendar or just watch for blog posts on the main web site.
I’ve got some equipment I would like to donate?
We currently have a limited amount of space and have to be careful about not turning the space into a dumping ground. But if you’ve got something unusual we would like to hear about it through the contact page.
What your plans for the future?
We have too many to list but generally we want to grow the membership and are already looking for a bigger space.
What is the organisational structure?
TOG’s members have come together to form an “unincorporated body of persons” which would be more commonly known as a “unincorporated association” or just a “club”. As is normal with this type of organisation we have a written constitution which defines our objectives, procedures, membership, committee, etc.
How do you make decisions?
A core principal is that the organisation is that it is run by it’s members, as part of this we try to achieve consensus on all decisions.
We believe that consensus can best be achieved by first discussing a proposed idea widely amongst all the members. This discussion should identify any issues or oversights with the idea. After all the discussions a formal proposal email is then circulated to all full members and a number of days is given for any objections be to received. If no unreasonable objections have been received a proposal is deemed to have passed. If objections are received additional proposals can be written or a majority vote can be held at a meeting.
What is the role of the committee?
The committee has limited set of finance, membership, and management tasks. The committee consists of a Treasurer, Membership Secretary, and at least three Ordinary members.