For those needing the help of information technology (IT) experts to those in the field, take advantage of IT information resources to help further you or your business professionally. IT information can include many information technology reference tools such as publications, affiliations or news sites.

Use Management Information System (MIS) information and information technology information to help you find a service provider, stay up-to-date on the latest industry news, keep up with your competitors and more.

To make the most of available IT information resources:

1. Start your IT research with basic information. Understand the concept, look for teaching tools like webinars and news outlets.

2. Follow-up with additional information technology research by joining a group or affiliation.

3. Round out your IT reference by subscribing to one of the many trade publications available.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Jump into your IT research with the basics

Begin your IT information search by learning basic concepts and definitions. Keep up on the latest news, and take advantage of the many online teaching tools available.

I recommend: Check out the research and analysis from CIO. There you can also find how-to info, advice, news and more. Find free webinars from Technology Marketing Corporation. They also offer free videos, white papers and podcasts. Look into the IT webinars offered through TechRepublic. Use the IT news portal from TechWeb.

Join a group for more IT information

Industry affiliations are a great way to learn more IT information. Network, continue your education, keep up on the latest news, find help with your career and more all from these wonderful organizations.

I recommend: Consider becoming a member of the Information Technology Association of America (ITAA). Another group affiliation you can consider joining is the Association of Information Technology Professionals (AITP). You might consider membership to the Library & Information Technology Association. Learn about membership criteria and dues for the Information Technology Association of America- GEIA Group, an affiliation of "high-tech" groups doing business with government entities.

Use publications for your IT research

Use trade publications to keep up on the most current IT information and resources.

I recommend: Sign up for a free InformationWeek subscription, or sign up for one of their many eNewsletters. Check out a free subscription to Computerworld, an IT resource that has been around for over 40 years. Sign up for instant email notification when white papers, webcasts and InfoWorld reports are added to their extensive library. Receive a free subscription to BTQ to find research, articles, podcasts, whitepapers and more.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  Take advantage of all of the free IT resources you can find. Magazine subscriptions, blogs, webinars, podcasts, eNewsletters and more are all wonderful resources to stay informed about the industry and to help you learn and discover new and exciting field topics.