how to / create centres / buildings / flexible space use The flexible use of space is one of the secrets of success in designing and running a resource centre. Ideally your community resource centre should be separated into at least two rooms or areas. This will cut down noise and offer some privacy to users, as well as helping with income generation and making it possible for two or more things to go on at one time. Consider the following possible uses: few projects will be able to afford them all at the outset, but with a little imagination they can be designed in to a fairly small space. A reception space This should: Be non threatening - encouraging people to come in rather than keeping them out Make sure there is a way of recording who uses the centre, when and what for Offer a level of polite security at the entrance Offer a face to face introduction to the centre House a display of services, activities and - as soon as possible - achievements A public access space The area for public access to ICTs should: Have at least one hands-on terminal Be light and comfortable Be overseen if possible by a general helper or facilitator (reception?) Be furnished and laid out to comply with Health and Safety rules Possibly double with reception space A training room or area This should be separate from interruptions from other areas so it can be used for: Training courses (community and/or commercial). Four terminals is a minimum if you aim to generate income Community use (eg youth groups, clubs, after school childcare) Hiring out to small businesses, colleges or schools A meeting room This can be used for: Community, volunteer or staff meetings Non-IT training Clubs and Societies or small businesses to rent out It may possibly be the same space as the training room. It should offer privacy from interruptions and noise. An administration or "back room" space This will be needed for: Management and administration Privacy in phone calls or for one to one meetings Messier activities and work in progress Storage A refreshments space This could range from a drinks machine in the reception area, to a staff kitchen where tea and coffee can be made for visitors, to a proper catering kitchen complying with Health and Safety rules Storage You will always underestimate what you need! Additional Office space Consider space ranging from shared "hot desks", to very small offices and larger spaces such as workshops. It can be used: For letting out as serviced offices to new small businesses For hosting parish office activities or community groups Letting out space is one of the easier ways to make ends meet - it doesn't take up significant staff time!   how to / create centres / buildings / flexible space use