June 2010

A new article has been posted to my website. For many associations, making the change to a new database is not only expensive and time-consuming, but it also decreases productivity for an extended period of time. But shouldn’t a new database improve productivity? Yes, it should. But frequently, when an association makes this move, productivity actually falls, …

New Article Posted – Three Steps to Ensure Switching Systems Doesn't Slow You Down Read More »

My client and colleague Dave Martin of the Electronic Retailing Association has just launched a new blog called the Dirty Martini. Click here to view it. I’ve added Dave’s blog to my RSS feed, because he has some really smart things to say about marketing in associations. And this post on “dirty data” is a great one …

A New Blog You Should be Reading Read More »

Yes, that’s harsh, but more and more it’s true. I’ve written before about how associations should not be in the business of developing software. (Click here to read that.) I’ve also written before about how there are very affordable AMS products on the market that obviate the need for homegrown association management systems. (Click here …

Working in a homegrown system is malpractice Read More »

At many of my recent talks, I’ve been discussing the importance of tracking and managing volunteers. Volunteerism is THE distinguishing factor between for-profits and non-profits. After all, no one volunteers to work at Best Buy, but many people volunteer for your organization. So you need to know what your volunteer channels are (e.g., writing, speaking, …

Tracking Volunteers and Form 990 Read More »

And that’s why there are so many association management system (AMS) options available. Quite often I’m asked by potential clients “Isn’t there just a ‘best’ AMS product that you can point me to?” I usually respond, “If there were, I’d have already bought the company that makes it.” There is no single “correct” answer to …

There is no single "correct" solution to any problem Read More »

I’m pleased to announce that I’ve entered into a partnership with the Florida Society of Association Executives (FSAE) to offer FSAE members a major discount on my RFP Shell and basic remote consulting. With this package, FSAE members only will receive EDM’s “Basic Remote Consulting” package ($500 value) and EDM’s time-tested RFP Shell ($495 value) …

EDM Forges Partnership with Florida SAE Read More »