Ep.65 The VOP Framework: Your Three-Point Checklist for Sustainable Growth
With Maria Lloyd
RFVM group meeting from 2024/2025 season
Episode Description:
In this episode, Maria discusses her strategy for growing local groups, which is based on the framework of Value (V), Operations (O), and Promotion (P). In the first part of the podcast, Maria speaks as the Chair of Reading Film and Video Makers and how this framework has been applied to the group for the 2025-2026 season, which is undergoing evolution because membership numbers dropped after COVID.
In the second part of the episode, Maria highlights the strategies used by other Reading-based groups which allow them to deliver value, operate effectively, and promote what they do. All the points mentioned in this episode can also be applied to businesses and other offerings.
RFVM Website: readingfilmandvideomakers.org.uk
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Episode Time Codes
00:00 Introduction
00:58 Reading Film and Video Makers (RFVM) background
01:31 RFVM current group problem and solution
01:56 Three-point framework for how to develop a sustainable group
02:10 Value and how this is applied to RFVM
03:48 Operating procedures and how this is applied to RFVM
07:38 Promotion and marketing and how this is applied to RFVM
09:45 How Reading groups provide their members with value (Caversham writers; CADRA; Science in Reading)
14:06 How Reading groups have refined their operations (Science in Reading; Toastmasters; Professional Speakers Association (PSA))
17:27 How Reading groups promote what they do (History of Reading society, Dreading Slam poets)
19:00 Summary
Key takeaways
Prioritise Value Before Promotion (V-O-P Order is Key): Successful growth requires focusing on value first, then operations, and only then on promotion. There is no point in promoting something if it doesn’t offer value.
Streamline Operations for Accessibility and Efficiency: Effective operations involve making your offering easy to access and run.
Use Collaboration and Existing Networks for Low-Cost Promotion: The most effective promotion often comes from mutually beneficial collaborations and tapping into existing networks.
Podcast episodes mentioned in this episode
Ep.38 Build a Thriving Community (and Business) with This
With Simon Morris
In this episode, Simon Morris, speaks about his experience organising the Reading Geek and Science in Reading groups, and offers advice that can be applied to businesses. He discusses…
Ep.28 How CADRA Makes A Difference In Your Community
With Helen Lambert
In this episode we delve into the world of community engagement with members of Caversham and District Residents’ Association (CADRA). We learn how CADRA plays a vital role in shaping…
Ep.7 Caversham Writers | Improve your writing
With Adrian Raffill
This week, Adrian Raffill shares his thoughts on the common challenges that writers face and how to overcome them, some top ways to promote a local community group, and much more.
Ep.4 How to promote a local group
With Richard Stephenson
In this episode we speak to Richard Stephenson, leader of Dreading Slam Poets. We discuss what it takes to promote a local group and the importance of embracing a hobby.