Entrepreneur Mag

Entrepreneur Magazine, January 1992

COFFEE, TEA AND PC 

Mention the term "computer conferencing," and people envision computer buffs discussing techno- topics, zapping messages back and forth on their computers. Not so on SF Net, a computer network that links patrons at 10 San Francisco Bay Area coffeehouses. Coffee lov- ers of all backgrounds sit down at sleek tables with built-in computer keyboards and monitors to "talk" to each other about current events. 

"This network provides an out- let for any individual who walks into a coffeehouse," says Wayne Gregori, 34, founder of SF Net. "Other on-line computer networks have a distinct lack of diversity." 

According to Gregori, coffee- house customers-who range from ultra-conservatives in the downtown business community to poetry-writ- ing liberals-participate in "lively" electronic discussions. "People can discuss the most controversial topics in a sane manner," he says. "The network has become an extension of many people's social lives." 

Owners love the network because it draws customers and perks up the crowd. All the cafe owner provides is a phone line; Gregori installs the computerized coffee table. Customers pay cafe owners $1 for each 15-minute chat session. In addition, more than 250 home users pay a flat $5 monthly fee to access the espresso crowd. Gregori's next markets include Se- attle, Chicago and New York City.  

Kevin McLaughlin