BIG is the autonomous organisation dedicated to supporting and promoting the interests of individuals involved in any aspect of business intelligence and market research. All membership interests are represented - whether as information users or suppliers. It provides a platform to reflect business intelligence and research issues for all those with shared interests, and to develop networking opportunities. Through the various media of newsletters, seminars, conferences and web-based communications, current and impending issues are reviewed and discussed. Collectively, BIG champions the cause of better business research within the highest executive levels of organisations representing all market sectors. The annual conference is established as the leading opportunity to review strategic positions within the business intelligence community. Membership is open to all, without pre-qualification, except that members agree to abide by the professional code of conduct, adopted from the MRS (Market Research Society) and ESOMAR organisations. Members get the benefits of reciprocal arrangements with the MRS, other specialist research organisations, and like-minded interest groups within the broader marketing arena. What will members get out of it? A news magazine printed every quarter Free access to Forum meetings, held 6-8 times a year each covering an important, relevant, issue affecting users and providers of business research Cross-interest seminars 2-3 times a year bringing clients and agencies together to examine specific topics in depth Networking opportunities to meet other like-minded members in an informal setting. Reduced rates at the highly respected annual Conference Access to Business Research training courses run by top industry specialists. Directory of members online Research Buyer's guide (to be published again 2005 on and off-line) - free copy, reduced rates for entry Links to other marketing sector associations - offers of reduced price attendance at their courses, etc.. Summer and Christmas social events, and AGM. Web site - news of the above, plus a searchable guide with information sources and links What about the future? The newly autonomous nature of BIG, where membership is no longer dependent on being a member of the MRS, has freed the organisation to undertake new projects and consider radical, alternative ideas. These will focus on the further integration of research information users into the group's functions and activities - leading to a truly representative and responsive organisation. Membership links with other organisations will ensure a wide coverage of research-related interests. Among other activities, projects include best-practice guides, specific-issue reference sections, forum meetings, seminars and workshops. On behalf of its members, BIG undertakes the vigorous promotion of the business research industry, within the widest context and at the most senior levels. This recognises the relationships between business research and other information services as key elements in corporate and marketing strategies. Principally though, BIG activities are designed to encourage members, old and new, to participate since it is only through participation that one can really maximise the benefits of the organisation. Claire Labrum Chairman of BIG c/o Strictly Financial 116 The Chandlery 50 Westminster Bridge Road London SE1 7QY How much does it cost to join?