During our 4 visits we saw a range of workshop practices, learning different ways to deal with bookings, customer backlog and time management. A key learning was to close or delay bookings to allow us time to work through the backlog. We also gained knowledge on processes for Bike Libraries, something we are developing, including booking systems, storage and pricing.
Through spending time and exchanging knowledge with 4 local cycling organisations, we strengthened our community networks. A key outcome was new organisations joining the Aye Cycle Glasgow network, and material goods being exchanged e.g. bike parts and frames.
The planning for the exchange meant setting up a Whatsapp group, which has a continuing benefit after the visits. The group is now used to post ideas and plans by volunteers and staff, contributing to the community ownership of the refurbishment project.
The exchange offered a great opportunity to spend time with volunteers outside of the usual workshop environment. This meant exploring cycle routes, including cycling along the new Renfrew Bridge, offering the chance to discuss cycling infrastructure. Further, the exchange helped foster an environment where everyone’s views were valued, and could feed directly into plans for refurbishing our workshop. This also meant staff and volunteers could take ownership of the project, contributing ideas, time and research.
Finally, since the study visits, two members of our team have enrolled on SPT funded Bike Reuse Training from the Social Enterprise Academy to learn ways to enhance our workshop offer further.
Learning Outcomes
- Understand a range of community cycling and recycling workshop practices, from customer bike bookings, repair and delivery.
- Explore a range of community cycling and recycling workshop designs, including layout, storage and processes.
- Strengthen existing and create new community networks and relationships within the cycling and recycling sector in the Strathclyde region.