Getting Started: Creating New Working Groups, SIGs, and BoFs

When members encounter problems or issues that require group collaboration to proceed, or they envision a new product or service that they feel would be of use to their colleagues around the world, they may wish to call together a group of folks interested in discussing the options. This is called a BoF, or Birds-of-a-Feather session, and is often hosted at Internet2 Member Meetings and Joint Techs Workshops. If the group wishes to meet regularly to discuss a range of issues related to a single topic area, they form a SIG (Special Interest Group); SIGs can be scheduled at Member Meetings and Joint Techs Workshops at the discretion of the chair(s).

However, if the group identifies a specific project(s) on which they want to work, it is time for a new WG. Here are the steps that must be taken to create a new Working Group (WG) that is supported by Internet2:

• Identify a lead person(s) to be known, at the beginning of the effort, as the Chair(s). Note that WG Chairs can, and do, change throughout the life of a WG. A list of the roles and responsiblities of the WG Chair is found here.
• Conduct a BoF to gauge interest in topic Internet2 staff will provide support as/if needed and requested; this person(s) will become the group's Internet2 Liaison(s).
• Develop and negotiate the WG charter. Submit the request for a WG to Internet2, either through the Liaison or directly to Susan Evett. Include the charter, names of chair(s), and description of project(s) on which the group will work. If you have not selected an Internet2 Liaison, one will be supplied; this person will work with the chair(s) to negotiate deliverables and timelines.
• Create a mailing list (with assistance from Internet2 staff).
• Establish a regular meeting schedule (weekly, monthly, quarterly, etc.).
• Establish web site (with assistance from Internet2 staff; see the sample webpage as a starting point).
• Announce the formation of the WG.

Review of requests for new WG's will be completed within two (2) weeks; the chair will either receive formal notice that the group has been formed or questions on the submissions received within that period.

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