At the basic level, reciprocity is a mutual agreement between SIAM and another society that supports the goals of SIAM. Components of the agreement typically include:
- Mutual discount off dues: members of one society may join the other and receive a discount off the standard dues rate.
- Mutual promotion: An exchange of information and clear communications to members (membership lists, ads in newsletters, or something similar) in order to promote reciprocity.
Reciprocal members typically have full privileges of membership. It is desirable to have other activities that can be shared among reciprocal societies as well. It is hoped that reciprocity will lead to opportunities for future collaboration and cooperation between societies.