The people problem is tricky. At work, this would be the right time to do a video chat and at least see the faces of the other people involved. Would folks be interested in a Skype/Hangout sometime? It would be interesting to hear what interests / skills / resources / constraints we have between us.
I think that’s a great idea, thanks. It’s easier to work with people with whom you have formed a personal relationship, and a video conf is a good way to do that.