Working Groups: Definitions
Advisory Group. Advisory groups may be created to either coordinate multiple WGs or to bring in outside expertise to counsel multiple WGs, initiatives, or areas; e.g., in the Middleware area, the MACE Advisory Group.
BoF. Taken from the saying, “Birds of a feather, flock together.” A BoF is an informal discussion group (scheduled at a conference program or formed ad hoc) to consider a specific issue or subject. The purpose of a BoF is to conduct a single, brief discussion or to ascertain interest and establish goals for a WG or SIG. All BoF organizers are required to submit a brief written report of what transpired during the BoF meeting, together with a roster or list of attendees to the appropriate Internet2 Liaison.
Community-Focused Idea. An interest or activity that comes from the Internet2 community or staff that may support the attainment of Internet2 goals.
Functional Area. A technical area within Internet2 (e.g., Security, Performance, Middleware) that is the focal point for support of Internet2 goals. The actual scope of the work could cross multiple functional areas.
Initiative. Broad-based community need satisfied by focusing Internet2 resources for a period of time. An initiative may or may not have WGs in support of its efforts, e.g., E2E Performance, K-20, Internet2 Commons, Health Sciences, and Arts and Humanities.
Project. A subtask team within an established WG formed to accomplish tasks according to timelines that include start dates, milestones, and end dates.
SIG. A Special Interest Group (SIG) centers around common interests and topics or forms to share “war stories”. It is less formal and open to all members. Group is expected to meet semi-annually at Internet2 Member Meetings. Does not typically expect to produce deliverables.
Working Group (WG). Typically created to address a specific problem, produce one or more specific deliverables (guideline, standards specification, etc.), or to do information sharing. Upon completion of its goals and achievement of its objectives, the WG is terminated. Alternatively, with the concurrence of the Internet2 Liaison, the WG chair, and the WG participants, the WG’s charter may be modified through a re-chartering process in order to extend the objectives or assignment of the WG.
NB: For the latest listing of current WGs, SIGs, and Advisory Groups, please see: http://www.internet2.edu/wg/wg-list.html
