The association management software world is known more for its smaller “mom and pop” vendors than for big software players. It’s fairly unusual for venture capital money to be invested in this market (though it has happened on a few occasions, as noted here.) So today’s announcement that Avectra has landed $26 million in venture […]
Avectra Scores BIG VC Money Read More »
“So when we get our new database we’ll be done, right?” I can’t tell you how many times I’ve heard this from my clients. And I always tell them, “No, we’ll just be getting started.” Whether you’re buying a new data management system, or have had your current AMS for years, the reality is that
It's a Process, Not an Event Read More »
I had the opportunity to view a demo of the Computility AMS recently. For very small associations, I think the system is worth consideration. Here are the highlights: CRM tool. The system includes a neat area for tracking contacts and follow ups with companies and individuals, and even allows for assigning follow up to other
Many associations struggle with the relationship they have with their software vendor. There are many reasons for this, but a primary one is expectations. Too often, associations expect immediate response from their vendors, and perhaps more importantly, they expect immediate resolution to their problems. Rob Gates of SHRM recently posted the following note to the TMA
Working with your vendor Read More »
On behalf of a client, I had the opportunity to see a brief demo of iMIS 15 last week. My client is on iMIS 10.4 and is wondering whether they should upgrade to iMIS 15. Following the demo, it was unanimous: there is no compelling reason to upgrade at this time. ASI has been advertising
iMIS 15: Color Me Unimpressed Read More »
Over the years I’ve frequently heard and read about associations looking for good RFP models for selecting a new association management systems. I have an RFP model that I’ve used for years with my clients, and now I’m making that RFP available to the association masses. You can read all about it here. This RFP
New RFP Shell Available (Shameless Plug) Read More »
When developing an RFP on behalf of my clients, one of the items we'll discuss is "nice-to-haves" vs. "must-haves" on the list. That is, identifying which functionality the system must absolutely provide, or otherwise it cannot be considered. This activity can actually be more difficult than it sounds. For example, working with a client recently,
Must-haves vs. Nice-to-haves Read More »
One of the cardinal rules when buying a new association management system is to be sure to check references. Presumably the references the vendor provides you are clients of theirs that are happy with the product and services. Of course, it's important to check with references, but one element of reference checking that is often
Checking references; look for the older clients Read More »
I’m often asked this question (or a variant of it) by my clients and others. “Well shouldn’t every association management system have [fill in the blank] functionality?” The answer is, “Well, maybe.” I’ve pondered this question for several years, actually, and I’ve finally decided there are only four basic functions any product that calls itself
What baseline functionality should an AMS have? Read More »
Frank Sarlo from PDA recently posted the following to the ASAE technology listserver: "Our Programs and Meetings Department is researching online conference registration systems that are separate from our AMS system. Their current choice is Cvent. What are your thoughts about this separation of systems? Can the advantages gained outweigh the additional systems integration and
One System or Multiple Systems? Read More »