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Mission & Objectives

The Network Users' Forum exists to foster mutual aid between people to help them explore how they can benefit from using network applications and online services.

The Objectives are:

To accelerate online developments by enabling clear and effective exchange between users and suppliers of networking technology
To raise awareness of the uses of information networking technologies in promoting growth by disseminating experiences
To identify the individual sectors within business, education and the community that will be early adopters of information networking technologies
To work with existing sector-based organisations to encourage uptake of information networking technologies and the cultural change to exploit this fully
To promote wider access to information and technological resources
To conduct activities in such a way as to make the exploration of new opportunities engaging, exciting and enjoyable for users

The Network Users' Forum grew out of partnership and aims to be as inclusive as possible in its further development.

Membership Terms

Constitution that all members must agree to. Corporate Members must also agree to the Code of Practice. The Forum is run by a Steering Committee that is elected annually by the membership.

Background

The history of the Network Users’ Forum divides into three phases:

1994 - 96	The concept of the Forum was developed from 1994, and the Forum was launched on 30 June 1995. The launch was led principally by DJ Associates, University of Sheffield and Fretwell-Downing Group Ltd
1996 - 98	The Forum received support from the European Regional Development Fund to develop its online services. This phase was led by a collaboration of DJ Associates, University of Sheffield, Fretwell-Downing Group Ltd, The Sheffield College, Sheffield Hallam University and Sheffield TEC.
1998 - present	The Forum became a membership association with a constitution and code of practice. It is now run by a Steering Commitee, elected by the members.

Launch of Network User's Forum, 30th June 1995

From left: Ian Gow (Pro-Vice Chancellor, University of Sheffield), Mike Bower (Co-Chair of Sheffield City Liason Group), David Jennings (seated) and Richard Caborn MP.

The Network Users' Forum is a partner in the Sheffield and Rotherham Information Society Initiative Local Support Centres.