8 Keys to Unlocking Your Member Benefits

thumbnail link to the "8 Keys" flyerEvery IJIS Institute Member and Affiliate is a valuable asset to the IJIS Institute. The relationship you build with the IJIS Institute will benefit not only your organization, but the local, state, tribal, and federal agencies and practitioners who reap the rewards from the many programs and services the IJIS Institute offers with the assistance of its member companies.

The IJIS Institute is committed to helping Members and Affiliates realize the many benefits of membership, and promote Member and Affiliate participation and accomplishments. When Members increase their participation at the IJIS Institute, they find it leads to greater industry experience, opportunity, and knowledge. Here are eight ways to experience the benefits of membership.

1. Use the IJIS Institute Knowledge Management System (KMS)

The IJIS Institute Knowledge Management System (KMS) contains a wealth of information, including working papers, reports, news, minutes of meetings, and other materials. Information is updated on a regular basis, so the site is constantly evolving. Make a regular and reoccurring appointment to read the information in the sections that interest you and your company. Share relevant information with your coworkers and colleagues. The weekly IJIS Institute Digest e-mail will also help keep you informed as to the activities of the IJIS Institute so you know where you can best apply your time and expertise.

2. Communicate

Read and share correspondence and communications from the IJIS Institute to maximize membership benefit. The Wormeli Report, distributed twice a year to dues-paying Member companies, provides valuable insight into the markets your company needs to reach. Remember to share what you learn through the IJIS Institute KMS with your coworkers and colleagues.

3. Technology Assistance Program

Participate in the IJIS Institute’s Technology Assistance program. Lend your company’s expertise to state and local governments that need information sharing support.* A list of current technology assistance opportunities and directions on how to participate can be found on the Industry Opportunities page of this Web site, as well as in the “Member Opportunities” section of the IJIS Institute KMS.

4. Technology Training Program

Participate in IJIS Institute training courses, both as a student and as an instructor. Learn about information sharing standards, and provide your knowledge and experience to others.* View a complete list of training courses and program information. A list of current trainer opportunities and directions on how to participate can be found on the Industry Opportunities page of this Web site, as well as in the “Member Opportunities” section of the IJIS Institute KMS.

5. Committee Service

Participate in a committee! Committee participation allows member companies to contribute to projects and programs of national significance, as well as network with other companies and agencies.* Representatives from the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ), the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS), and other government agencies and practitioner groups also participate in committee activities and the development of work products. The networking potential, as well as the potential to impact critical information sharing at national, state, tribal, and local levels, is realized through the work of the many IJIS Institute committees.

6. Attend the IJIS Institute Industry Briefings

Twice a year the IJIS Institute hosts Industry Briefings, one in January and one in late summer. Members attend these briefings for the latest information from the DOJ, DHS, Office of the Director of National Intelligence (ODNI), and other federal agencies regarding the progress we are making collectively and collaboratively towards improving information sharing at the state, local, tribal, and federal levels. This venue also provides the chance to learn about new opportunities and build new and stronger business relationships.

7. Contribute

Help us by providing articles of interest about IJIS Institute programs or projects, information sharing success stories, and case studies. Send us your press releases, articles, and case studies relating to the National Information Exchange Model (NIEM). Help us by contributing financially so that, together, we can further the mission of the IJIS Institute.

8. Share the Mission Message

Every member adds to the strength of the IJIS Institute's collaboration efforts when the mission message is shared. We invite you to display the IJIS Institute logo at your exhibit booth, on your website, and on your business cards. The IJIS Institute logo is a declaration that your company is actively engaged in adhering to the standards and best practices that will enable systems to interoperate. Talk about the IJIS Institute at conferences and training events. Mention your membership at the IJIS Institute in your press releases about information sharing successes and case studies. Share the mission message!

* The IJIS Institute is the venue for industry’s voice to be heard, Members and Affiliates alike. However, during any selection process for engagements at the Institute, preference is given to dues-paying Members over Affiliates.