If you’ve ever heard someone mention a “SAS User Group” and thought, “What does that actually mean?” you’re not alone. These groups are a cornerstone of the SAS ecosystem – but unless you’ve attended a meeting or conference and seen them in action, they can feel a little mysterious. Let’s break it down.

What are SAS User Groups (SUGs)?

SAS User Groups are independent communities formed and led by SAS users. Their mission is simple: Connect with people who share a passion for analytics, data science and SAS software.

These groups take many forms:

• Regional or local groups, like SESUG (Southeast SAS User Group) or BASUG (Boston SAS User Group), serve local communities.
• Industry- or topic-focused groups that dive deep into specialized areas.
• Virtual groups (SESUG resources) and LinkedIn groups, where you can connect globally without leaving your desk.

While each group operates independently, SAS supports them with resources like sponsorships, technical expertise, promotional help and even speakers for events. This balance keeps groups user-driven while giving them the backing they need to thrive.

Why do they exist?

At their core, SAS User Groups are about connection. They create spaces where users can:

• Share ideas and best practices.
• Troubleshoot challenges together.
• Learn new skills from peers and experts.
• Explore the latest trends in analytics and AI.
• Meet with SAS employees and give feedback.

For many, these groups also spark professional growth. Presenting at a meeting, publishing an article or leading a discussion often becomes a first step into public speaking or thought leadership. And of course, they’re an excellent way to grow your professional network.

How to get involved

Getting started is easy. Most groups have websites or social media pages where you can:

• Sign up for newsletters.
• Register for events.
• Join conversations with other members.

A good place to begin is the SAS User Group page, which lists active groups, upcoming events and ways to participate.

Interested in presenting? Contact Senior Digital Marketing Specialist Shelley Sessoms, the liaison between SAS and US-based user groups.

Presenting at a user group meeting is the perfect opportunity to hear from our customers. These user groups provide you with feedback that can make a direct impact on our software and services. Shelley Sessoms

What’s on the agenda at SUGs meetings?

The short answer: a little bit of everything. Meetings often cover:

• Practical coding tips and troubleshooting.
• Case studies and product demos.
• Discussions on AI, ethics and the future of analytics.
• Open Q&A sessions where members learn from each other.

One to note is the upcoming Southeast SAS User Group (SESUG) event Sept. 22-24 at SAS world headquarters in Cary, NC. This is the first time since 2017 that this group has visited HQ.

SAS User Groups around the world

Beyond the volunteer-led user groups in the US, SAS supports several other learning and networking events for SAS users in other countries. Here are a few:

• In Canada, SAS works with local users to plan user events in each of the major cities where SAS customers live and work.
• In the Nordic countries as well as the UK and Ireland, SAS runs the SAS FANS as a members-driven network of customers who gather at many networking events throughout the year to learn from each other as well as from SAS.
• In Japan, SAS Japan sponsors a User Forum, an academic-style conference where users present their SAS topics to each other. This year’s event will be held on September 25.

Around the world, SAS users love to gather and learn from each other.

Learn more about the upcoming SESUG event