Local User Groups

What are Local User Groups ?

Local User Groups (LUGs) are partners independant organizations that meet virtually or physically to support software product users. Local User Groups provide an environment for users to help users. This peer-to-peer support is offered in a number of ways, including online discussion groups, regular newsletters, and most importantly, user group meetings. At local user group meetings, users benefit from face-to-face contact with their peers, enabling them to form professional relationships and strengthen their networking efforts. The local user group focuses on the needs of their individual members, providing educational opportunities and sharing information pertinent to their local community.

Meetings and programs are tailored to the needs of the community making the local user group a great source for job opportunities, networking, and product support.

Autodesk is helping groups connect with users via their worldwide group portal. https://knowledge.autodesk.com/community/groups

Local User Groups are Looking for You to Lead

In addition to the rewards that come with building and managing a community organization whose mission is to help “users help users,” local user group leaders position themselves to receive numerous other benefits, including:

• The opportunity to give back to one’s community
• A vehicle for shaping and growing one’s community for the future
• Enhanced leadership experience
• Professional and personal development
• A springboard to future professional and community leadership positions, including AUGI
• Networking and job opportunities

Many people who want to get involved with software user communities on a leadership level nevertheless wonder what will be required of them if they do. One distinct benefit of being a user group leader is that many of the tasks have been streamlined such that it requires less time to manage. There are resources available to make this easier.

Nevertheless, local user groups cannot succeed without the direction and talent of local leaders. User Group Board members play a crucial role in leading and representing their user group. Board members provide vision and direction to the local user groups, serve as spokespersons to and for the local user group members, and act as ambassador to the broader communities and beyond. Find out how you can join a local user group in your community and find out what other design professionals like yourself are doing to further their careers and professional development.

Any questions, comments, or suggestions regarding Autodesk centric groups should be directed to the link https://knowledge.autodesk.com/community/groups.