Everyone from software developers and engineers to computer hobbyists will be able to network and share ideas thanks to a newly-launched Microsoft.NET user group.

The Bermuda.NET Users Group, which is the first of its kind on the Island and in the Caribbean, was formed by Sandra DeSilva, founder of Nova, Paul Coleman, founder of txt.bm, and Russell Medway, chief technology officer at Ironshore and its first meeting will be held at XL Capital on Monday November 15.

Futurologist and Bermuda resident Dr. James Martin will be the keynote speaker at the event talking about the future of technology and his vision for the 21st century and he will be joined in the line up by Aaron Erickson, a Chicago-based software developer, technology writer and agilist, who will speak on C# for the .NET framework 4.0.

Ms DeSilva, who is also president of the group, said that the not for profit association was set up as a means for an information, knowledge and learning exchange for the software community, specific to Microsoft.NET users and business which utilise its tools, such as finance, insurance and local companies within their actuarial, modelling, risk and information departments, as well as database administrators, quality assurance professionals and students.

She said the aim was to hold three meetings per year, with discussions ranging from coding techniques to general architecture to .NET 'best known models', as well as the latest trends and developments,and speakers from Bermuda and overseas coming to talk about their areas of specialty, with topics based on demand from members.

Ms DeSilva said that the group was also on the lookout for volunteers to help out with the group and the events to ensure its continued growth in the future.

"I think having something like this will give people a place to network together and promote and grow software engineering as a career choice in Bermuda," she said.

"It will also really help to grow Bermuda's infrastructure with this type of community."

Mr. Coleman said: "It benefits the IT industry in Bermuda broadly as well as down through businesses with software development needs and individuals who want to grow their skills professionally or as a hobby."

Mr. Medway, who doubles as treasurer of the group, said: "It is great if you are a small company or an individual because you get face time one-on-one with like-minded people in your industry to discuss issues you may have and come up with a solution."

Monday's free event, which is sponsored by Nova, Vertigo, XL Capital, Ironshore and Microsoft and is expected to attract about 50 people, will be held between 5.30 p.m. and 8 p.m. and will include giveaways and cocktails.

To sign up for the event or for further details including free services and downloads visit the website at www.dnug.bm