The greater Boston, Massachusetts area is rich in technology and people.

The technology space I have been involved with for around 18 years is Microsoft, SQL Server, and Windows.  In recent years, Azure has been added, and advanced analytics as well.

I have had the pleasure of getting more involved in these groups, and I will testify to the friendly nature of the people involved.  Technology does not have to be a scary thing to get involved with!

One question I get from customers is, “Where can I go to learn more about SQL Server and Azure?”

Fortunately, we have a wonderful set of communities full of experts, who volunteer their time to share knowledge.  Both technical and nontechnical people should consider attending to better the understanding and skills in these areas.

Here is my short list for SQL Server, Business Intelligence, Windows, and Azure within Boston and Cambridge MA.

The SQL Users group in Boston meets in the Microsoft Office at 255 Main street, Cambridge, MA:

http://www.meetup.com/NESQLUG/

The Boston Azure users group meets at Microsoft’s 1 Memorial Drive, Cambridge, MA community area.

http://www.meetup.com/bostonazure/

The Windows users group meets in the Microsoft Office at 255 Main street, Cambridge, MA:

http://www.meetup.com/WindowsBoston/

The Boston BI group meets in the Microsoft Office at 255 Main street, Cambridge, MA:

http://www.meetup.com/Boston-Business-Intelligence/

Further out, in Rhode Island are two great Microsoft SQL Server and Business Intelligence groups:

The Rhode Island Business Intelligence User Group meets at Bryant University in Smithfield, RI:

http://www.meetup.com/The-RI-Microsoft-BIUG/

The Rhode Island SQL Users Group meets in East Greenwich, RI:

http://www.meetup.com/Rhode-Island-SQL-Server-Users-Group/

I welcome comments for your own favorite user groups.  Thank you!