International Technical Network


Much of what we do is in the public domain but the nature of working life means that it is only occasionally shared outside our countries and even more rarely with those who really need the information.

Imagine a means where those in one branch have, or are aware of, an urgent technical need and are able to contact technical representatives in other branches all over the world. Imagine being able to summarise global practice on any aspect of fire safety. The IFE's new International Technical Network (ITN) - which takes the form of an open e-forum - allows members to do just that.

ITN branch representatives can post requests for information on the ITN forum. For example, they may be representing the Institution on a committee preparing guidance on fire safety in residential buildings. The response to their request for information should help them gain a snapshot of current practice around the world, or a specific piece of information on a single aspect, and so inform and broaden their contribution and the committee's debate.

Members can post requests for technical information, in pursuit of Institution business, on the ITN forum via their ITN branch representative. Members may also be asked to provide information by their ITN branch representative in response to a specific ITN query. The ITN is in addition to the Members' forum, which is probably more appropriate for general correspondence/exchange of views.

The ITN was relatively simple to set up and easy to administer. As it develops, it will significantly increase the Institution's technical, regulatory and social influence and be a catalyst for global learning.

The International Technical Network is a new and innovative conduit for identifying critical technical issues, sharing technical information, and debating different approaches and solutions on a global basis.