If you own a company in the inventory management industry, you would do well to partner with inventory management associations to strengthen your business expertise and credibility. Industry organizations bring together professionals with similar goals and challenges. Members of industry organizations come from all company divisions, but all share the same objective of expanding their knowledge.

Becoming a member of the right organization opens the door to a wealth of expertise. You will be exposed to many networking opportunities, information and resources. Additionally, inventory associations may also provide invaluable services that include new products, education opportunities and industry support. When looking for membership with a inventory management group, remember the following:

1. Make sure the association you're interested in is credible. Check the Better Business Bureau or other industry accreditations.

2. Many inventory management professional organizations don’t stipulate membership for certification.

3. Most organizations charge fees for memberships, so make sure you’re getting your money’s worth before you pay.

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

Become a member of an accredited inventory management professional organization

Although many organizations offer information, tools and resources to non-members, you can benefit substantially from becoming a member. Membership opens the door to additional services, products and representation. Register as a business rather than as just an individual, if possible, so your employees can benefit from the membership.

I recommend: The Material Handling Industry of America offers many membership benefits, including networking opportunities and exclusive access to the association's trade and business press database. The Society for Inventory Management holds interest group roundtables for their members.

Take advantage of certification opportunities provided by inventory management groups

Progress stops for no one, and you need to advance as a professional by keeping your industry skills sharp and current. Take advantage of educational programs and tools to assist you and your employees in knowledge development and career advancement. Many organizations offer information on upcoming seminars, conferences, business development courses and other industry-related programs; in addition to industry certifications.

I recommend: The American Management Association (AMA) offers AMA Self Study courses and certificate programs as part of its ongoing continuing education opportunities. APICS provides a very extensive offering of educational programs, including webinars and workshops.

Find online inventory management councils that maintain active web forums

The forum on an industry organization's website can be a great source of support. Forums are a real-time communication opportunity. Any business with a question or concern can raise it in a forum and receive up-to-date responses from a variety of experts. Check to see that forum discussions have current activity before you join.

I recommend: The Council of Supply Chain Management Professionals and the Warehousing Education and Research Council both provide an online discussion forum where members can share industry questions, concerns and ideas.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  Networking is a great business tool. Make sure you're stocked with business cards so you can market yourself and your company to your inventory management association peers.