Re: tool sharing program

[Richard Beels <beels@technologist.com>]

Tool rental implies audifans.com, Inc. purchasing said tools to rent to
list members.  Is this really what you want?  Another idea would be a "tool
rental marketplace" page where listers can advertise their specialty tools
for rent.  Renter provides own box and packing material, sends tool to
rentee who returns tool (in same box/material with renter-stipulated
insurance coverage) with payment and reimbursement for the outbound
shipping.  This would cut you out of the middle.


At 12:47 PM 11/10/1998 ,  Dan Simoes was inspired to say:
>  Revisiting some old ideas and some new ones here, since the new
>  server will be seeing light of day soon (hardware is on order
>  and colocation space has been spoken for).
>  
>  I got to thinking about the GtechPro sharing that was going on,
>  and I have an idea I'd like to develop.
>  
>  Since the new site (audifans.com) will be supported by advertising
>  and perhaps donations, I'd like to organize a tool rental
>  program.
>  
>  For a nominal contribution, you could have the use of a VAG1551,
>  crany pulley tools, etc for the weekend.
>  
>  What do you think?  The parts should probably sit at a central 
>  location, with a known lister willing to "run" the program
>  (this would also involve shipping the parts out and verifying
>  that they are OK upon return).  If funds allow, there would be
>  a small "salary" for this person.   Feel free to volunteer
>  or nominate someone and explain why.
>  
>  This also brings up the idea of membership (most likely without
>  a fee).  I don't relish the idea of sending $500+ of tools out to
>  a stranger with a hotmail address.   We would probably have to
>  establish an actual membership, in order to have valid info on
>  the person, but this again involves human effort, and time I
>  don't have.  Maybe for $20/yr or some pittance, you get a window
>  decal, a membership number, free classifieds on the website
>  (I know they are free now), a structured discount with vendors, etc.  
>  Other benefits would be available as I think of them.
>  The other things like mailing list and website
>  should remain free in order to grow.
>  
>  Talk amongst yourselves...


Cheers,
	Richard
	88 90Q - K+N, new vac hoses, still 0.0 bar....
	88 Golf GTi - PRO Rally