Yet to see if it's a successful idea. :P My reasoning, I work with lasers in both contexts, so it was only natural for me. Things have changed considerably in the display world as far as cost, you can build a nice full-scanning projector for under 5K. This being said, although I do shows professionally, I don't have the funds or clientele to make it a full time gig.

Our engraver (and EXT from Epilog), however, is already paying for itself after only 6 months since its purchase, with just a few clients. Not half bad! Niche markets seem to be the key to keeping that business alive and well, and thus far we've had pretty good luck.

The idea behind the forums was to bring more of a community feel to both industries. It's somewhat of a challenge as many folks tend to feel as if they discuss too much they're giving away their market advantage, I tend to lean towards the sharing of knowledge. There's actually a movement towards open-source businesses that is quite interesting, not sure if I'm 100% on board yet, but it's causing a lot of buzz, Google Adafruit, they're pioneering the idea of an open-source business model for laser engraving of various personal electronics.

Keith,

My limited psychic abilities are playing less a role, (in my prediction of your success), than my powers of observation.

You've put a lot of personal energy and personality into your site.

The fact that people know who you are, by name, can only bolster credibility.

You're not subscribing to a "Build it and they will come and contribute" method. People will come and contribute, although it's (my opinion) up to a forum host to keep the momentum alive.

Aside from that, the laser display aspect gives your site a unique and diverse aspect, which is also a crucial component.

Activity + diversity = A compelling site. :-)

Evidently, I'm not telling you anything you haven't already discovered.

Best of luck.