DETROIT – The Michigan InfraGard board met Nov. 3 to discuss some changes in direction and planning issues for the upcoming year. Initial direction was determined regarding the creation of a limited administrative infrastructure – in other words, a real physical location, phone, and other necessities of actually doing business as a distinct entity.
This will allow the IMMA to receive snail mail, have a dedicated phone number for contact by members and others, shared virtual work space for program development and other work.
This is a step up from the previous virtual existence where you needed to have the direct line or email to the board member or other person within InfraGard whom you were trying to reach. Besides the basics of office administration, the other issues discussed by the board pertain to event planning. On this one in particular, we need your feedback!
We are proposing a standard three-hour agenda for the next year for all meetings that will include two speakers, a networking session, and refreshments. It will become the format used for all IMMA events.
We are also considering a joint meeting format with SecureWorld or other sponsored event, in order to minimize the number of meetings in months where major security events overlap with organizational meetings.
Event breakdown will allow for a 15-minute introduction by the sponsor for the event, a forty-five minute first presenter, a break, a second forty-five minute presenter, and then a networking period. On occasions where business must be mixed with pleasure (aka – educational program), a short members only forum is proposed to take care of member business at the end of the agenda.
Give us your feedback on these items, and finally, any input as to the desired frequency of meetings is appreciated.
This column was written by Hans Erickson, CIO of the Detroit Regional Chamber, and Michigan InfraGard Public Information Officer. Send your emails to [email protected]
