As we enter 2004, I am excited about the many opportunities facing the Software Council. The economy (finally) appears to be strengthening, our members are poised for growth, and we are making changes to help us fulfill our mission.

First, note our new mission statement: "The mission of the Software Council of Southern California is to make the region's software and information technology companies more successful." This will help us focus on what is most important for all of us: your success.

We recently expanded our charter to include information technology (IT) departments at non-software as well as software companies, in recognition of the fact that IT departments have much in common with traditional software companies.

We are implementing several new initiatives to enable us to serve you beyond our 50 events per year including the Software Industry Awards and VentureNet:

• A web-based resource center that will provide easy access to information and outside resources
• A mentoring program, which will link entrepreneurs and others needing assistance to the appropriate resources
• An increase in our series of training events. These provide greater depth on a specific topic than is practical with our traditional venues and include our bootcamps.

I am pleased to announce that we have formed a relationship with Ruder-Finn, a top international Public Relations firm, who will help us increase the visibility of the Software Council and its members in Southern California and beyond. In addition, we will establish an advisory board, consisting of leaders from the area's top software companies, to help guide us going forward.

Indeed, 2004 promises to be an exciting year for the Software Council! As always, I encourage you to contact me with any ideas and suggestions.

Sincerely,
Lee Shaeffer
Executive Director

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