DECUS LUG News 1988

This document, titled "LUG NEWS: 1988 Compendium of DECUS LUG Newsletters," is a collection and guide for Local User Groups (LUGs) associated with DECUS (Digital Equipment Computer Users Society).

The compendium, compiled by Paula Sharick (National LUG Council Publications Coordinator) and Kata McCarville Weber, aims to showcase the diversity of LUGs across the United States, provide ideas for improving their newsletters, and encourage the formation of new ones. It notes that LUGs vary greatly in meeting frequency, attendance, and membership size, as well as the professionalism of their newsletters.

Key sections of the document include:

1. LUG News: A Gathering: An introduction to the compendium, highlighting the variety of LUGs and their newsletters, and inviting more submissions for future editions. It specifically mentions Wichita Area LUG for humor and CRIMLUG for professionalism.
2. Field Guide to National DECUS Support for LUGs: Explains the organizational structure of DECUS LUGs, which are divided into six U.S. regions. It details the role of Regional LUG Coordinators (RLCs) in supporting LUGs with formation, newsletter advice, funding, and speaker recruitment. It also describes national DECUS support mechanisms like the DECUS All-in-One communication system (DCS), dedicated LUG sessions and clinics at national symposia, LUG cluster dinners, and regional conferences.
3. Hints for Successful Newsletters: Provides practical advice for LUG newsletter editors on various aspects, including:
   • Content: Suggests regular features (Q&A, tips), articles on technical topics, meeting summaries, symposium reports, and humor.
   • Production: Recommends using logos, clear labeling, page numbering, and contact lists. It also touches upon modern publishing techniques like desktop publishing and effective duplication/distribution methods.
   • Funding: Offers ideas for soliciting support from corporations and other sources.
4. Regional Sections: The bulk of the compendium is organized by geographical region (Central, Mid-Atlantic, Northeast, South, Southwest, West). Each regional section introduces its Regional LUG Coordinator with contact information and a brief biography. It then lists the LUGs within that region and their Chairs, with black dots indicating which LUGs have newsletters included in the compendium.

Overall, the document serves as both an informational resource about DECUS LUG activities in 1988 and a practical guide for enhancing the effectiveness and reach of local user group newsletters.