Introduction-Why Strategic Planning Demands More Than a One-Day Retreat: Part 1 of 7
Strategic planning has become one of the most misunderstood responsibilities of association boards. Too often, organizations attempt to compress an entire strategic process into a single “in‑and‑out” planning retreat—an agenda-packed day that produces a document but not a strategy. These sessions may feel productive, but they lack the essential ingredients of real strategic work: research, […]
Part 5 – The Next 250 Years – Building a More Perfect Union
So what comes next? If the first 250 years taught us that ideals can endure, the next 250 will test whether institutions can adapt. Technology will accelerate; demographics will shift; global interdependence will deepen; the nature of work will evolve. But the American promise won’t change. Our task is to make our systems as dynamic […]
Gratitude as a Strategic Capacity
Even as we move forward into December, the lessons of November’s gratitude stay with us. Here’s a reflection that continues to shape strong leadership. Every November, as we gather around tables filled with family, friends, and traditions, we’re invited to pause. Thanksgiving isn’t only a day of gratitude; it’s a reminder that appreciation itself can […]
Communication for 21st-Century Associations – From Letters to Instant Messaging
In the 20th century, communication in associations was a slow, deliberate process. Communications were sent by mail, and landline phones facilitated scheduled conversations. The pace of communication reflected a world where patience and planning were integral to operations. Fast forward to today, and the digital revolution has completely reshaped how associations connect with members, stakeholders, […]
Associations and the new Administration in a BANI world
Word count – 404 / 2 Minute Read The term “BANI” refers to a conceptual framework that describes the current state of the world as Brittle, Anxious, Nonlinear, and Incomprehensible. This framework can help associations and organizations navigate the complexities of the 21st Century, especially in the context of significant political changes such as the […]
Hierarchical to Networked Structures
Adapting for Success in the 21st-Century Association Landscape In the 20th century, most associations operated with a traditional, hierarchical structure, where decisions were made from the top down and followed a linear chain of command. But in the fast-paced, interconnected world of the 21st century, this model often proves too slow and rigid. Today, associations […]
Balancing Act: Daily tasks vs long-term strategy and Foresight
Juggling day-to-day tasks with long-term strategy and action can be a challenging feat. While it’s essential to address immediate needs and opportunities, getting caught up in the whirlwind of daily operations can sometimes come at the expense of long-term success. Why do day-to-day tasks harm long-term strategy, and how should we strike a balance? Short-term […]
The Need for Agile Executives and Management
What’s at Stake? To succeed, we must understand that the employment climate is changing in our new economy and act in this new ecology. Going Deeper: What does it mean to be an agile manager? Here are some critical aspects of being an agile manager: Flexibility and Adaptability: Agile managers embrace change and are flexible […]
Failing Small Staff Associations (SSA) PART 4
What’s at Stake? Understanding that for the SSA, resource allocation is always about affordability. It is not a cry in the wilderness for more money. Going Deeper: Part four of this series highlights how SSA executives can consider affordability in allocating resources. Affordability in resource-poor SSAs involves emphasizing cost-effectiveness, efficient resource allocation, and the ability […]
Failing Small Staff Association (SSA)
What’s at Stake? The Strength of the Association Community and its Credibility. § Does the association’s community professional development, stewardship, foresight, and subsequent practices reflect the community’s understanding of the small staff association? Dig Deeper The vast majority of associations are small or midsize. They reflect the enormous desire to individualize causes, professions, and industry […]