Building an online community
For members, alumni and networks who want to meet online more often and better.
An active format
An online community grows through rhythm, recognition and real conversation.
A strong community doesn't just appear, online no more than anywhere else. We design gatherings and structures that encourage connection, make contributing easy and let the online community grow step by step.
More than a single event
Building a community online takes a series of encounters, formats and moments where members find each other again. We design the rhythm and the spaces for that.
A recognisable place online
A community benefits from an environment that doesn't feel like a stray meeting link. SpatialChat can work as an online clubhouse, meeting space or community hub.
Contributing becomes easy
A community lives when people can bring, ask or share something. We design formats that make taking part low-threshold and worthwhile.
In practice
Three examples. Years of experience.
International networkAn online clubhouse for Olympians
For the World Olympians Association we build an online clubhouse around the Games. Participants follow keynotes, visit workshops, organise watch parties and meet each other informally.
Alumni networkRecurring gatherings around themes
An alumni network wants to meet more than once a year. Online gatherings with themed tables, short contributions and room for people's own questions are the ideal complement to their event in person.
Professional communitySharing knowledge between gatherings
For a specialist network we build a recognisable online format in which members organise their own get-togethers to share experience and make new contacts.
Preparation is everything
Who it's for
Membership bodies, alumni, professional networks, platforms
Group size
dozens to thousands of participants
What a successful building an online community needs.
01
A shared purpose
People come back when it's clear why the community exists and what taking part gives them. That purpose has to be felt in every format.
02
Rhythm and recognition
Communities need repetition. A fixed structure helps people step in faster and contribute actively.
03
Community management and hosting
An online community needs looking after. Not everything has to be programmed, but without attention the contact soon falls quiet.
Frequently asked questions
Can you build a community online?
Yes. But a community doesn't just appear. It takes rhythm, interaction and attention.
Is this an event or a programme?
Usually a programme. You don't build a community in a single gathering.
How do you keep members involved?
With regular gatherings, recognisable formats and room for members to exchange with each other.
How large can a community be?
Anything from a few dozen to hundreds or even thousands of participants.
Which software do you use?
We build communities in SpatialChat, because it's the only platform that combines the worlds of websites and online meetings, and can therefore support the community across every form of contact.
More answers?Fewer answers
How often do communities hold gatherings?
That varies a great deal. Many choose a monthly or quarterly cycle.
Can you support community managers?
Yes. We regularly support community managers and programme teams.
Does this work internationally?
Yes. Online communities lend themselves particularly well to working across borders.
How do you start a new community?
It usually begins with a shared question or a common goal.
How do you increase activity?
By making it easy to contribute and to meet each other.
Can you facilitate the community?
Yes. On the content and on the technology alike.
Related event formats
This might fit too — or even better.
A party people genuinely remember, even with everyone logging in from home.
Running an online company party
A party people genuinely enjoy — even with the phone propped up on the kitchen table.
Running an online Christmas party
Connecting people who don't know each other yet: online, easy to join and with real conversation.
Running an online networking event
Listening to the people who matter most, in a structured and effective way.
Running an online sounding board
Next step
Online, but not as you know it.
Orientation
See what we do
From strategy day to online team building — see which event formats fit what you're after.
View all events →Interested
Feel the difference
20 minutes to see how a platform like SpatialChat does something Zoom and Teams don't.
Book a tour →Ready to go
Book a conversation — we'll think it through with you
No obligation. We look straight away at your situation, your group and what it needs.
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