Joint Base Andrews, Md. -- The 459th Air Refueling Wing has a host of information regarding programs and regulations that it needs to share with its more than 1300 members. Previously this information was stored in a variety of places including the Intranet "Foxnet" and share drives which are only accessible on base. Now, in an effort to consolidate information, knowledge and expertise, the wing developed a 24/7 Web site, known as a Community of Practice or a CoP, which is becoming the information center for the wing.

"CoPs are a means of providing the detailed information we want to share," said Colonel William "Tim" Cahoon, commander of the 459th ARW. "The goal of the CoP is to provide Reservists one-stop shopping.  We will be able to operate more smoothly and effectively if we are all better informed and using the same sheet of music."

The CoP entitled "459th Wing Neighborhood" ,located at https://wwwd.my.af.mil/afknprod/ASPs/CoP/OpenCoP.asp?Filter=RC-OP-00-57, is more than just an everyday Web page.

"One of the many great features about the CoP is the inter-activity factor that develops between members when using the available modules," said Tech Sgt. April Hutson, Client Services Administrator for the 459th Wing Staff.

The 459th structures its CoP by unit so each can provide information specific to who they are, what they do and what they want to provide to unit members.

"The Action Item Tracker, Discussion Forums, and Collaboration features extend the CoPs usefulness in allowing members to manage actions needing to be accomplished or hold discussions among multiple members on various topics and keep a history of decisions that may have come out of them. There is also a calendar that can be used to place upcoming events," explained Sergeant Hutson.

The wing's CoP capitalizes on this powerful knowledge-sharing technology to bring numerous related organizations and multimedia products into one Web location.

Current schedules, guides, and presentations are just some of the resources found on the CoP.  Topics include UCI, TET, Fitness program information, Human Resources and Development Council, as well as an area for individual units to post pertinent information.

CoPs are accessible anywhere you can get to the Internet. You can access through the AF Portal, AFKN (Knowledge Now) or directly using its web address. All a member needs is either their login credentials or a CAC.

For more information regarding uses of the CoP, please contact your CSA.