When asked for the most common reason AMS implementations fail, I typically respond "lack of testing." But implementation is only the first step in the process. Long-term success for the AMS requires ownership.

What do I mean by ownership? I mean that someone (or a team) internally has actual responsibility for the long-term success of the AMS. Too often what happens after implementation is each department takes ownership of only its own area, which ultimately leads to silos and, longer-term, to a system that is no longer working at optimal levels.

Once you're past implementation, someone (or a team) has to have responsibility for the ongoing maintenance and support of the system. If your organization doesn't or can't have a single individual do this, create a team of representatives from key areas (typically membership, events, and finance, along with others) that are responsible for working together to keep things on track. (Click here to read more about these teams.)

But whether it's one person or a team, the "owner" has to be clearly identified and has to focus on the long-term success of the system. The system will not take care of itself!