1.  Share ideas.
          This gives you an opportunity to take advantage of other's success,  You may want to try something new  and you can discuss it with ithers that may have already tried it.  This way you can see if it realy is something you want to pursue before spending the time and money.  There also might be something that you never thoght of before that becomes a vital tool for you.

2.  Bring awareness to problems ans solutions.
          This is helpful because in this ever growing feild we run into problems all the time.  Whether it is software or technical issuses, a brick wall is always around the corner.  Discussing these issues will make others aware of the problem and could provide a solution.  Someone may already have experienced the problem that you are having and knows the answer you are looking for.

3.  Provide opportunity for knowledge growth.
          You will have a chance to learn more of the technical side of GIS.  From the introduction of new tools to   useing the current tools more effectively.  You will be shown how to do the process step-by-step.

4.  Broaden your reasources.
          By being involved in the user group, you have established contacts in other organizations and professions.  This can be very helpful in getting support and information.  Someone's project might be benificial to you,  and know you know where to get it.  You might need help finding the suport in your project and now you  know someone who can help.  It is all about who you know, and the person you need to know might be  attending the next user group meeting.
Back
Hosted by www.Geocities.ws

1