Not everyone who needs or uses tech is immersed in the industry. User groups are an important part of getting tech implemented where it is designed to help. During Oracle OpenWorld 2015, Stu Miniman, cohost of theCUBE, from the SiliconANGLE Media team, was joined by two members of the Independent Oracle User Group (the IOUG).

Troy Ligon, director of technical architecture for American Express Co., and Michelle Kolbe, manager of data and insights for Backcountry.com, were both involved in regional IOUGs. Their involvement stems from a passion to connect with people and the technology that is taking their companies further.

User group communities

As Ligon stated, the user group community covers everything from apps to best practices. Kolbe added that it is also a great resource for learning and experiencing the new things that are developed in the fast-changing world of data, analytics and storage.

The networking and meet-up opportunities of a conference like OpenWorld give users a true sense of community and the resources they need to embrace new technology.

Know first

Partnering with Oracle, the IOUG has the opportunity to get advanced notices on releases, teaching and trainings for members, and be not only up-to-speed but ahead of the curve when it comes to the technology they are using.

To find out more about the benefits and possibilities of independent user groups, watch the full video interview below, and be sure to check out more of SiliconANGLE and theCUBE’s coverage of Oracle OpenWorld 2015. And join in on the conversation by CrowdChatting with theCUBE hosts

Photo by SiliconANGLE