Management Information Systems (MIS) Organizations

Management Information Systems (MIS) organizations offer professionals a wealth of information
By Kelly Shetsky, Anchor/Reporter A management information systems organization provides a focal point for relations and contact with government, private companies and in education that can control the nature of information systems. MIS professional organizations create a vision of the IS field's future and improve curriculum of IS education. Members have access to educational tools as well as industry news that they don’t get in their day-to-day profession. MIS associations are a collaboration of professionals with experiences and expertise to share.
 

Joining a management information systems association gives you tactical and strategic direction. IT associations inspire the minds of professionals in a community atmosphere. There is face-to-face networking, chapter meetings, publications, articles an online resources. All are designed to put you at the top of your game. When considering a MIS management association:

1. Join IT associations to network and learn from your peers.

2. Pay annual membership dues to belong to a management information systems organization.

3. Expect benefits to range from professional discounts to an increase in personal knowledge.

Use Management Information Systems (MIS) organizations to network with other industry colleagues

IT associations run the gamut from local groups to international associations. All have one goal: to further the MIS industry. They offer members valuable resources and relationships.
Try: The Association for Information Systems (AIS) is a professional MIS international association. The association creates and maintains a professional identity for IS researchers, educators and professionals. Register online to be a member of AIS. The Computer Measurement Group (CMG) is a global association of IT professionals who strive to share information and best practices. Their focus is to ensure the scalability and efficiency of IT service delivery. Sign up for upcoming conferences for networking opportunities.

Pay annual dues to join a management information systems association

Professional MIS organizations charge varying annual dues, depending on the group and the membership level. Expect to pay more for certain events, workshops and publications.
Try: Information Resources Management Association (IRMA) is an organization dedicated to furthering members' professionalism. IRMA brings together practitioners, researchers, academicians and policy makers in IT management. Apply online to be a member. Dues range, depending on whether you choose a student membership or corporate membership. Society for Information Management (SIM) is a place where information management executives can discuss technology issues. Benefits include networking, newsletters, education and advocacy opportunities. View the membership criteria and apply online.

Benefit personally and professionally from joining IT organizations

Membership benefits to MIS professional organizations range from meetings, books, journals, conferences, networking opportunities and discounts.
Try: Association of Information Technology Professionals (AITP) is comprised of professionals who want to grow their career. Benefits include networking opportunities, IT conferences, advocacy efforts, research developments, vendor solutions and career opportunities. There are also special discounts on education courses and group insurance plans. Register as a professional member online. Association of Computer Support Specialists (ACSS) is a great network for MIS professionals because your name and skills are posted online providing an opportunity to build your client base. Members also get certification-prep courses, discounts and much more.

• Keep your membership to IT organizations up to date. Each group has a different process to renew membership.