The state of Beer SE has been on my mind for quite a while now, and after another user suggested that the site expand our scope, we've decided it's time to shake things up.
In its current state, Beer is averaging 0.4 questions per day. While we have two active moderators who are keeping the site clean, we don't have many users asking or answering questions, or participating in review.
Community engagement is critical to keeping a site running.
The Plan
The site's current scope is too narrow. We'd like to widen its purview to all alcoholic beverages, including but not limited to:
As you can see, the new site scope will be broader than its current form. We want the community to be revitalized and open to these areas.
Why the change, now?
I'll admit that I was hesitant to change scope, but after looking it over, I decided that a lot of work (800+ days in beta) has been put in and it would be a shame to throw that away by combining the site with Homebrewing. There is no guarantee that a change in scope will breathe new life in the site but in my opinion, it's worth the effort.
The change will allow the site to encompass the current proposals of Wine, and Cider. We're hoping it will get interest from users of the now closed Alcoholic Beverages proposals (1, 2) to join the site and participate.
We want the community to succeed and if broadening the scope is needed, then let's go for it.
What's Next?
The community will need to flesh out the new scope of the site. What will be on-topic? We will also need to come up with a new site name. "Beer" is too limiting, so what should it be named?
Once these are decided, then we will get the highball rolling and have some fun with alcohol.