MapStory Slam

MapStory Slams are informal events in local communities that bring together MapStorytellers for a few hours of collaborative data development and storytelling. Slams can provide a great extra-curricular activity in schools, a strategy for brainstorming and creativity in an office, or as a way to bring community stakeholders together around an issue of common concern.

Organize Your Own MapStory Slam

Hosting your own Slam is simple.

First, confirm who's in charge

If you're running the show, then you're good to go. If not, make sure you've established clear lines of responsibility for the event.

Second, find a space.

MapStory Slams should take place in a space with strong internet connectivity, outlets to plug in computers, tables/chairs, bathrooms and ideally some whiteboard space for brainstorming.

Third, set a time

The length of your event will be determined by your event goals, and the level of experience of your participants. For example, if you're inviting mostly experienced MapStorytellers and your goal is simply to improve a single Storylayer, then you could have a successful Slam with two hours. But, if your Slam is targeted at beginners, and you are hoping to generate entirely new StoryLayers and MapStories, than your Slam should probably last at least a half-day.

Forth, set goals

Your Slam can look and feel however you like! In general, we've seen the following formats work well:

• Pick an Issue: For example, maybe your Slam will be dedicated to improving a StoryLayer that tracks the spread of an invasive species in your community. Participants will spend the Slam editing that StoryLayer and producing a MapStory that explains the impacts of that invasive species.
• Set a Target: Motivate engagement by setting numerical goals, such as the # of StoryLayer edits you hope to achieve as a group, or the number of MapStories you want to publish
• End with Lighting Talks: Set aside time at the end of your Slam for some participants to share their work in quick lightning style talks

Fifth, share the results!

After your Slam is complete, consider writing a Journal post on MapStory.org. Let the global MapStory community know about your efforts. You might also want to let a locally focused newspaper know about your work, and share MapStories you made on social media, such as Twitter or Facebook.