Tech Partners: A Forum for Sharing Computer Know-How

Robyn Fizz
Publication Services

Whether it's a question of buying a printer, choosing a backup 
system, or setting up a database, the first source of computing help in 
many offices is a colleague who works intensively with computers every 
day.

Recognizing the importance of this grassroots computer support, IS 
has sponsored Tech Partners for several years. This program is open to 
members of the MIT community whose jobs involve computer support for 
their workgroups or departments. Tech Partners provides access to extra 
technical resources and training, as well as the chance to meet other 
MIT employees who have similar roles.

As with all user groups, participants in Tech Partners are encouraged 
to take an active role, from sharing solutions to giving presentations. 
Members also give feedback to IS about computing services on campus.

Macintosh and DOS Groups
Tech Partners sponsors two groups - one with a DOS/Windows focus, the 
other for Macintosh users. Each group meets monthly (except in the 
summer): DOS Tech Partners on the second Tuesday of the month; 
Macintosh Tech Partners on the third Monday. Typically, meetings are held 
in E40-302 and last from noon to 1:30pm. There's time set aside for informal 
talk and a question-and-answer session, followed by an in-depth 
presentation.

New Members Welcome
New Tech Partners are always welcome. To qualify, your job should 
involve providing computer support for your department or workgroup. 
These duties can be official (e.g., your job description includes 
computer support), or unofficial (e.g., you're often asked to advise 
others about computing problems, and have your supervisor's support in 
doing so).

For information about joining or about future meetings, contact the 
appropriate Tech Partners coordinator. Gail Garfield Neuman, who 
coordinates the DOS group, can be reached at x3-0878 or 
<garfield@mit.edu>. The Macintosh Tech Partners coordinator is Joanne 
Larrabee. You can reach her at x3-8422  or <jwl@mit.edu>.