ASI recently sent out a new whitepaper with best-practice advice from leading association clients that have successfully transformed their organizations.
You may have heard the phrase “Digital Transformation” and found yourself wondering what that means and how it pertains to your organization. Digital Transformation simply refers to the integration of digital technology into every facet of your organization, fundamentally changing how you operate and deliver value to customers. Simply put, it is the process of using digital technologies to create or modify your existing business processes, culture, and customer experiences to meet the changing market requirements.
So how do you remain competitive and relevant as the world becomes increasingly digital? You must first have a strategy in place. The most critical component of any association’s digital transformation strategy is ensuring you have an effective software solution that can support your objectives. The specifics of your digital transformation strategy will inevitably be dependent upon the specific objectives and goals of your association however there are three key steps any organization can follow to build a winning strategy.
Step One: Establish a Single Source of Truth
It is very important to have one single source of data. To achieve this your business systems across all departments including your websites need to use one integrated data solution. You need a single source of data that is accurate, comprehensive and up to date. It should be one database that is powerful and at the same time user friendly. You need a modern engagement management system (EMS) to support your transformation strategy. With an EMS, your business system and websites are one and the same, which means that every interaction has the potential to deepen engagement.
Step Two: Build Multi-Dimensional Web Content
It is critical to have a dynamic web environment that is personalized to your members. The content must be useful and specific to the interests and needs of your members so that they can effortlessly engage with your association. They should have full access to information without spending vast amounts of time looking for it. Associations that have succeeded despite COVID-19 challenges rely on association software that is the source of both the business system and website.
Step Three: Become a Learning Organization
The key to success in any organization is devoting energy to learning. You should aim to learn from every interaction your members have with your association. This way you can learn, understand, adapt and thrive. To become and more importantly remain a learning organization, many elements must be aligned. This includes membership systems, websites, and mobile devices. Your association software should maximize your organizational learning.
You can request a copy of ASI’s report here: 3 Critical Steps to Transform Your Association
