Defence interest groups

The Defense Interest Groups (DIG) are critical components of the S-Series Integrated Product Support (IPS) specifications framework. They are established to ensure that the needs and perspectives of defense organizations are effectively integrated into the development and implementation of IPS specifications. There are two distinct DIGs within the S-Series:

1. S1000D Defense Interest Group (S1000D DIG)

The S1000D DIG represents defense organizations involved in the S1000D specification. Formed to address the specific needs of defense users of the S1000D specification, this group focuses on ensuring that technical publication requirements are met effectively.

Purpose:

Advocacy: represents the interests of defense customers using the S1000D specification.
Feedback: provides feedback to the S1000D Council to ensure the standard continues to meet defense requirements.

Role in the S1000D community:

Requirement communication: communicates defense-specific needs to the S1000D Council.
Specification relevance: ensures the S1000D specification remains aligned with defense needs.

Membership and participation:

Eligibility: open to representatives from various ministries of defense (MoD) or departments of defense (DoD) involved with the S1000D specification.
Joining: interested parties should contact the S1000D Council or participate in relevant events and working groups.

2. IPS Defense Interest Group (IPS DIG)

The IPS DIG represents defense organizations using the broader suite of S-Series IPS specifications. Established to address the comprehensive needs of defense users of these specifications, the IPS DIG plays a crucial role in shaping IPS standards.

Purpose:

Collaboration: facilitates the sharing of information, experiences, and best practices among defense organizations.
Cost efficiency: helps defense organizations save time and reduce costs in implementing IPS specifications.

Role in the IPS community:

Voicing defense requirements: ensures that the needs of defense customers are communicated to the IPS Specification Council and associated working groups.
Maintaining specification relevance: works to ensure that the IPS specifications remain relevant and effective for defense users.

Membership and participation:

Eligibility: open to representatives from ministries of defense (MoD) or departments of defense (DoD) participating in the IPS specifications.
Joining: organizations and individuals can join by contacting the IPS Council or engaging in industry events and working groups.

Key functions of both DIGs

Advisory role: provide guidance on the development, revision, and implementation of the respective specifications.
Feedback and review: actively review drafts, propose improvements, and ensure the specifications address real-world challenges.
Industry representation: represent the collective requirements and priorities of the defense sector.
Collaboration and coordination: foster collaboration among stakeholders and streamline the development process.
Promotion of best practices: advocate for best practices in product support and lifecycle management.

Meetings and activities

Both DIGs hold regular meetings to discuss projects, review progress, and plan future activities. These meetings offer a platform for members to share insights, address challenges, and collaborate on solutions. They also organize workshops, seminars, and training sessions to disseminate knowledge and promote the S-Series IPS specifications.

Coordination with existing forums