Networking is the act of creating relationships between like-minded people, to facilitate communication and organise further information exchange opportunities. Networking is often used in a business context, although the proliferation of work at home (moneymakingmommy.com) schemes and personal social networking tools is also leading to a new understanding of the term. Business networking is a form of marketing where people create networks of like-minded people in order to create and develop business opportunities, and is a business tool and ideology that is intrinsic to the workings of many organisations. Networking is used by many people as a way to research new information and find out about new products. For example, if someone wanted to find out about a new retractable awning (Kassettenmarkise) design that was not yet released to the public, the only way to make discoveries would be to utilise an already existing network of contacts.

Most people may associate awning (Markisen) products with the traditional designs that are often seen above doorways and windows, however there have been a number of new developments in the industry. Awnings are now also used as a way to extend the livable spaces on the exterior of a building, and are used by restaurants and other businesses as a way to create additional advertising and entertainment space in the sunshine. Awnings are also often associated with marquees and other shade protection structures such as patio cover (markisenmakler.de) shelters and gazebos. Awnings are used by many individual people and businesses as a way to create shade and rain protection in an outdoor space, and are a great way for property developers to add value to a building. For people in the awning (www.markise.tv) industry wanting to stay on the cutting edge of awning design and development, networking is absolutely essential.

While a lot of people network amongst their colleagues and friends with nothing more than a personal computer by their side, personal contact still has a big role to play when creating business contacts. When conducting business and operating in a large proactive economic sector like the awning industry, it is important to stay up to date with any changes in the field; making the art and science of networking absolutely vital in order to remain competitive.