The problem with association problems is it is challenging to get to good solutions. It’s not just associations; by the way, problem-solving is a complex minefield for for-profits and non-profits alike.
There are many reasons why we experience problems finding solutions to our problems. Sometimes we start in the wrong place. Sometimes our hierarchy gets in the way. Sometimes we gravitate toward a solution that sounds great to us but doesn’t work for our members.
If you have big huge unsolvable problems facing your industry, if you cringe when someone says the word innovation, if you are exhausted from the last big project and about to start a new one, we might have some tips for you. A week ago I sat down with Marjorie Anderson from PMI, Randi Sumner from IEEE, and Garth Jordan from HFMA to talk about whether associations could be solving challenges for their members in ways they had never thought to do before.
We think yes!
- We think associations need to make the problem-solving process more egalitarian to be successful.
- We think associations can evolve from solving problems for their member to helping member become better problem solvers.
- We think associations need to know which members they are helping and more about the exact problems these members are having (a survey probably cannot get you that kind of information).
Have I sparked your curiosity?
Great! Register for SURGE co-creation. SURGE is a free online virtual conference for association professionals put on by Association Success and Matchbox Virtual Media, and we are kicking off the conference on Wednesday, May 1st at noon eastern.
If you’ve never participated in a SURGE conference before you can watch it just like a regular webinar, or you can type questions for the speakers, or you can interact with other participants. Choose whatever level of participation is fun for you.