In response to the needs of the state’s growing computer technology industry, Software and Information Technology of Iowa has changed its name to Technology Association of Iowa. With the name change will come a variety of new and enhanced services, with an emphasis on connecting technology companies with businesses that need their services, said the association’s president, Leann Jacobson.

“We took the opportunity this past summer to talk with our membership to consider … where do we want to be in 2010, and what does the organization need to look like, how do we need to be focused?” she said.

Founded in 1997 as the Software Council of Iowa, the organization later changed its name to Software and Information Technology of Iowa. The dues-supported industry association currently represents more than 230 member companies that are either in the technology industry or have ties to the industry. According to data from Iowa Workforce Development, the state has more than 3,000 IT and software companies, which employ more than 46,000 people.

“The association to this point has established a very broad-based foundation and has been focused on many different areas,” Jacobson said. “I think what you’ll see going forward is a very targeted approach where we’re going to focus on three objectives: leadership (in shaping public policy), promotion (of Iowa’s computer technology companies), and serving as an information resource for companies.”

Among the new initiatives is a technology conference that TAI plans to launch next summer that will bring industry members from across the state together for an educational and networking event featuring nationally known speakers as well as workshops and panels.

“Where we have a strong foundation and presence in Central Iowa, we’re really going to be reaching out to develop those connections statewide even more so than today,” Jacobson said. “We have that foundation of more than 3,000 technology companies … so it’s a big industry and we really want to get our arms around it.”

Additionally, TAI plans to introduce event “e-blasts,” e-mail messages that will update members on technology industry programs and events in which they can participate. The association is also launching a new Web site at www.technologyiowa.com that includes a calendar of events and online registration, as well as results of quarterly “Quick Pulse Surveys” of its members on topics of interest.

Jacobson said the association plans to collaborate “more than ever” with organizations such as local chambers of commerce and other technology groups like the Biotechnology Association of Iowa. Initiatives such as the Greater Des Moines Partnership’s Buy Into the Circle campaign are a good example of creating opportunities for better connecting technology users and providers. “When you talk about spending locally, technology is an ideal solution for that,” she said.

On Sept. 15, the association plans to begin a membership drive that will emphasize its new and enhanced services. Membership dues are based on the size of the member company and range from $325 to $3,250 per year.