The Computer Users Association (CUA) is an independent organisation that specialises in arranging briefings throughout each year on topical business related IT subjects of value to all IT managers and directors, irrespective of industry sector.

The CUA currently has two sub-groups; COMMON UK and Business Partners. both of which focus on an IBM audience. The latter focuses on organisations that have some form of partnership relationship with IBM.

COMMON UK Is the UK’s leading iSeries User Group, and is a part of COMMON Europe, which in turn is affiliated to the global COMMON iSeries user organisation, giving it a very powerful voice in the iSeries world. The Group specialises in the arrangement of technical briefings designed with the aim of providing an independent forum for iSeries users to:

• Network with other users and exchange views and experiences

• Keep up to date with what is happening in the iSeries world

• Gain information that will enable better utilisation of iSeries technology

• Increase the benefit that iSeries technology brings to the business

• Learn about opportunities in a non-sales pitch environment

• Have a chance to ask questions about issues and give feedback to IBM

COMMON UK has direct access to IBM specialists from the iSeries labs in Toronto and Rochester, and regularly hosts events featuring these iSeries experts, as well as the cream of the UK iSeries community.

COMMON UK holds events throughout each year, usually a minimum of one a quarter, in varying locations. Most events are 1-day sessions, but there are also 2-day symposiums, as well as the annual COMMON Europe Conference.

The multi-day events are usually accompanied by vendor exhibitions, but the individual presentations remain non-sales pitches, leaving the attendee in control.

Events organised by COMMON UK are aimed at a whole spectrum of IT professionals involved in the iSeries world, from hands on technical administrators and programmers, through to managers and directors. The multi-day events often feature parallel presentation streams, some focusing on technical topics, with others looking at current management issues and challenges.

How much does it cost?

Membership of COMMON UK is automatic for members of the CUA, but nonmembers may also attend events. The average cost of a 1-day event is between £99 and £149 for CUA members, or £199 - £249 for non-members. The other benefits of CUA membership include:

• Professionally run meetings covering all aspects of IT

• Reduced attendance fees to all CUA events

• Monthly newsletter

• Free legal advice

• Support with IBM

• Corporate membership

• And of course, networking opportunities with even more colleagues!