OMN Special Interest Groups

The Ottawa Manufacturers' Network has had a successful history of setting up and running special interest groups (SIGs) to respond to the needs of the manufacturing community on an "as and when required" basis.

These groups are comprised of interested individuals who contribute their time and share their expertise in the particular areas of interest of the SIG.

Currently, the OMN has special interest groups focusing on:

• Environmental Compliance (RoHS/WEEE)
• New Product Introduction
  
• Lean Manufacturing

In general, special interest groups meet on a monthly basis.  The groups each have a knowledgeable leader whose responsibility is to ensure logistics of time, place and topic are arranged. Each SIG is completely self-directed. Group members choose the topics of greatest interest and usually two or three participants volunteer to present a given topic.  Sometimes groups decide to bring in outside speakers or to tour different manufacturing facilities - the intent being to maximize the value of the group for every participant.

The value of participating in a special interest group is huge.  As well as being a venue to network with peers and meet new valuable contacts, it provides a real opportunity to find out how others tackle problems similar to the ones you might face.   A lot of invaluable information exchange and discussion about best practices takes place in SIG meetings. Over time, a sense of common interest to improve the status quo builds trust among the participants that can forge new and lasting business relationships.

Special interest groups are a member benefit and anyone, with an interest in contributing to these activities is welcome to participate.  Non-members are encouraged to join the Ottawa Manufacturers’ Network after attending a couple of SIG meetings.

SIG activities are promoted through the newsletter, by e-mail from respective leaders and through special notices.  To be placed on the mailing list, please click here.