ASHRAE launches online discussion platform

Through its new online ASHRAExCHANGE discussion platform, ASHRAE is providing members and others in the industry with an online platform for real-time discussion and information exchange for design, construction, operation and support of the built environment. The platform was launched at ASHRAE’s 2013 Annual Conference on June 22-26. “Many ASHRAE members felt there was a need for a place where both ASHRAE members and non-members alike can freely and openly exchange information focused on the built environment,” said Spencer Morasch, incoming chair of ASHRAE’s electronic communications committee. “The information exchange is informal and takes place in real time. So if you have a question at 3 a.m. on a Tuesday night, you can post that on the ASHRAExCHANGE, and chances are, have a reply posted back to you within 24 hours.” Anyone with access to the Internet can view posts, comments and messages on the ASHRAExCHANGE at any time. No registration is necessary, and no special software is required with this web-based platform. Users who want to become active participants and be able to post both initial messages and responses to posts are required to register.