NexCOMMUNITY / NEXLINKS USER GROUP
Nexlinks User Group: A Small Start and an Invitation to Help
Nine participants, 90 minutes of conversation, and a first step toward a broader Microsoft community.
By Phil Kinsley
About a month ago, I posted on LinkedIn about doing more to give something back through technology. Part of that was an idea for a community group where people could share what they know, ask questions, and have a conversation without needing to be an expert before joining in.
That idea has been taking shape as the Nexlinks User Group, or NUG.
On Thursday, October 29, we tried a small virtual session with nine hand-picked participants. The smaller group made it feel more like a fireside chat than a formal webinar. We had allocated an hour and ended up talking for 90 minutes, which was an encouraging start.
Questions ranged from beginner topics to detailed technical discussions. That was part of the fun. I want there to be room for both, without anyone feeling their question is too basic or that a technical discussion has to stop just as it gets interesting.
Microsoft is the common ground
My day job means I spend a lot of time talking about security, but I don't want NUG to become a security-only group. The intention is to cover the broader Microsoft environment, including Microsoft 365, Azure, identity, devices, AI, and the practical questions that come with using and managing them.
I'd like the topics to reflect what people want to discuss. Sometimes that might be a walkthrough or a panel. Other times, an open Q&A may be more useful than another presentation.
Online, in person, and still taking shape
The next step is to explore further virtual meetings and some in-person sessions, potentially in libraries or schools. No venues or dates are confirmed yet.
My original LinkedIn post mentioned Northern Virginia, but I'm hesitant to define the whole group by a location. Local meetings would be useful for those who can attend, while virtual sessions would give people elsewhere a way to participate. I'd like to keep both options open as we work out what is practical.
We're not quite ready to launch a public invitation. The first session gave us something to build on, and I'd rather take a little time to get the format right than announce a schedule we cannot sustain.
Interested in helping?
I'd welcome people who want to participate, join a panel, suggest a theme, or help organize a session. Help with website design and flyers for an in-person trial would also be appreciated. Small sponsorships toward tea, coffee, and snacks would help us make those gatherings welcoming.
If you have an idea, a possible venue, or some time to contribute, email [email protected]. You don't need a finished proposal. I'm open to suggestions, and I'd be glad to hear what would make the group useful to you.