1. How did you get started?
Our group grew out of the San Diego biotech industry. Our original members were all IT Managers or Directors for their companies. All of the original core members still participate in the group.

2. Do you have regular meetings?
Yes. We meet on the third or fourth Thursdays of each month from 7:30 - 9:30am or 4:30 - 6:30pm. At the meetings we learn about new products, discuss ways to use existing products, discuss personnel issues in general and socialize/network with each other. Any subject is fair game at the meetings and any member can suggest a topic for a meeting. Most of our meetings are on topics suggested/requested by our members.

3. Do you charge dues?
No, we do not charge dues for membership. However, we do have a nominal $5 online registration fee ($10 at the door) at each meeting to defray the cost of a light meal.

4. What products or services do your members have access to?
We have a list server which often supports lively discussions on various subjects. There are vendors that do offer discounts to our members but we do not keep a comprehensive list because that is not the purpose of our organization.

5. How many people/companies are involved?
As of September 2005 we have over 100 members representing 100+ companies. Our core membership lives and works within the San Diego metropolitan area. We have members in Orange County and various states across the United States. Members outside San Diego primarily participate via the list server and website.

6. Can vendors and recruiters become members of the group?
No. By majority vote we do not allow vendors or recruiters to join because we discuss their people, products and services within the group.

7. Who can join?
Anyone who works in the IT industry as a manager or above.

8. How do I join the group?
We accept new members primarily by referral. However, you may join the group by submitting a request to our current list server moderator, Matt Wilbur (matt@photon.com). We screen all requests to verify the information provided.

9. What information do I have to provide to join?
Please provide your:

  Name (including first name and last name)
  Title
  Company name
  Address
  City, state, zip
  Work telephone number
  Cell phone number
  E-mail address
  Company's website URL

We will verify your information by contacting you and your company. Upon verification, your e-mail address is added to the list server. Also, your contact information is added to our database.

10. Does my contact information have to go in your database?
Yes. However, you may choose to have your contact information made public or private to the group. Public means your information is shared with the group. Private means, except for your name and e-mail address, your contact information is not shared with the group.

11. Will my contact information be shared with anyone outside the group?
No. We do not share member's contact information with anyone but members of the group. We agreed to expel anyone who does not respect the group's privacy.

12. Who is the leader of the group?
The group does not have a leader. Several members help coordinate meeting times and topics of discussion.