Announcing Azure Data Tech Groups v2.0: Big News for User Groups and Members

Azure Data Tech Groups v 1.0

Two years ago, Microsoft publicly launched the new Azure Data Community webpage, and created Azure Data Tech Groups utilizing Meetup resources.  Prior to this, many user groups used PASS resources to host their websites, virtual meetings, manage members and more.  Over the following months, we onboarded qualified user groups to the new Azure Data Meetup network and began providing Microsoft Teams access to help groups meet virtually through the pandemic.  Since then, the Azure Data Community Meetup Network has grown to include over 150 groups in 42 different countries.  We've expanded the landing page to include community created resources like blogs, podcasts, videos, and upcoming Data Platform events.  Finally, we provide you with links Microsoft created resources like how to get started on a particular technology, white papers, virtual training, FAQs, slide decks, etc.

All of our community efforts were to empower the community, provide you with resources to help you continue to connect with one another, learn and develop your skills, and grow in your careers.  Azure Data Tech Groups v1.0 had one very glaring limitation: inclusion. For your group to be a member of Azure Data Tech Groups, you needed to onboard to Meetup.  If you didn't need or want Meetup, your group wasn't searchable via our resources. This exclusion had the greatest impact on the community in LATAM, the Middle East and Asia as they're less likely to utilize Meetup. This latest initiative will expand access to our network to more groups globally, groups that use their own website, LinkedIn, HDX or many ways to connect with members.

Azure Data Tech Groups 2.0 

Beginning today, both current and prospective user groups leaders can submit their group for inclusion with a simple application. Everything is contained within one single dataflow for leaders and co-leaders: the application, Terms and Conditions, Program Guide, joining the Leaders Community Hub, and more. No need to join Meetup.  We're coming to meet you where you are.  If your group utilizes means other than Meetup for organizing, we can do that!  The application is easy to find at https://aka.ms/AzureDataCommunity/Apply or you can simply Apply Here.  Current user groups leaders and co-leaders will be required to go through these steps to reaffirm the Terms and Conditions, share a link to their Code of Conduct and be added to the Leaders Hub described below.

Searching for a data platform user group just got easier and a lot bigger.  We now have a Microsoft page to make it easier to search for a user group in your area.  New functionality gives you the ability to find virtual user groups.  Once groups have started to onboard, you'll be able to find the search from on our landing page or at https://aka.ms/AzureDataCommunity/FindGroups. 

User Group leaders will be added to a Microsoft Tech Community Hub created just for them.  This Hub is a network of user groups leaders and event organizers focused on the Microsoft Data Platform. We exist to empower our community and provide resources to help you connect, learn, and develop your skills. We want to increase the visibility of user groups and increase their memberships. Please use this hub to connect with other group leaders about what’s working, what’s not working, how you grew your membership, tips for running Data Platform Events, seeking general help & support, finding speakers and more.

Throughout the duration of the Group’s participation in the Program, the Group will:

1. Have a group leader and a designated co-leader who have each accepted these T&Cs.
2. Not charge other members a fee to attend Group meetings, except in cases in which the venue and/or hosting costs (e.g., food and beverages) are passed through to members.
3. Maintain a published code of conduct that is easily accessible from the Group’s home page. 
4. Maintain a regular meeting cadence including having meetings at least six times per year that relate to or cover Azure Data Platform products or services as laid out here.
5. Comply with Program’s Code of Conduct.
6. Adhere to Microsoft’s Trademark and Brand guidelines, when using any Microsoft trademarks or referring to Microsoft’s software, products or services (see https://www.microsoft.com/trademarks).
7. Comply with any limitations set out in the Program Guide.