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		<title>Mastering Member Management: Analytics in Action!</title>
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		<pubDate>Thu, 10 Apr 2025 19:17:09 +0000</pubDate>
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					<description><![CDATA[<p>Updated May 7, 2026 “Data analytics” is a powerful tool for helping your member-based organization understand audience behavior and patterns. Using analytics, you can really get to know your members (which, in turn, helps you plan strategies to boost their engagement and loyalty). Analytics are the secret weapon that allow you to make real data-driven [&#8230;]</p>
<p>The post <a rel="nofollow" href="https://vocalmeet.com/mastering-member-management-with-analytics/">Mastering Member Management: Analytics in Action!</a> appeared first on <a rel="nofollow" href="https://vocalmeet.com">Online Learning Solutions | Association Management System | Vocalmeet</a>.</p>
]]></description>
										<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><em>Updated May 7, 2026</em></p>
<p>“<i>Data analytics</i>” is a powerful tool for helping your member-based organization understand audience behavior and patterns. Using analytics, you can really get to know your members (which, in turn, helps you plan strategies to boost their engagement and loyalty).</p>
<p><a href="https://vocalmeet.com/ai-and-you-two-heads-better-than-one/">Analytics are the secret weapon</a> that allow you to make real data-driven decisions, ultimately letting you create a strategy that offers members a more personalized (and way better!)  organization experience.</p>
<p>If you haven’t tapped into the power of analytics, take a minute to consider your options. It can be a risky move to base decisions on vibes alone, and your competitors may already be using analytics to up their game.</p>
<p>Thankfully, it’s never too late to start using data. In this article, we’ll break down how your organization can start using analytics like a pro. Let’s begin!</p>
<h2><strong><span style="color: #0041a2;">Key Takeaways</span></strong></h2>
<ul>
<li aria-level="1"><span style="color: #0041a2;"><b>Data beats guesswork:</b> Member analytics gives you real insight into what your audience wants, how they engage, and what keeps them coming back. No more relying on assumptions.</span></li>
<li aria-level="1"><span style="color: #0041a2;"><b>Personalization drives engagement:</b> When you use data to tailor content, events, and communications, members feel seen. That leads to stronger loyalty and higher participation.</span></li>
<li aria-level="1"><span style="color: #0041a2;"><b>The right metrics matter:</b> Focus on key data points like behavior, engagement, demographics, and feedback to guide smarter decisions.</span></li>
<li aria-level="1"><span style="color: #0041a2;"><b>Analytics helps you act early:</b> From spotting at-risk members to identifying top-performing programs, data lets you respond before problems grow.</span></li>
<li aria-level="1"><span style="color: #0041a2;"><b>Strategy comes first:</b> Set clear goals, align your key performance indicators (KPIs), and track what actually impacts growth, retention, and engagement.</span></li>
<li aria-level="1"><span style="color: #0041a2;"><b>The right platform makes it easier:</b> With an <a href="https://vocalmeet.com/natively-all-in-one-platforms-the-ultimate-association-solution/">all-in-one system</a> that includes learning management, association management, customer relationship management, events, automation, and AI-enabled reporting, organizations can pull data from across their tools and turn it into clear, actionable insights in real time.</span></li>
</ul>
<h1>What is Member Analytics?</h1>
<p>Before we dive too deep, let’s start with the basics. <i>Member analytics </i>is all about collecting and making sense of data on member behaviour. It helps you gain better insight into what your members want, how they engage, and what keeps them coming back year after year.</p>
<p>When considered correctly, member analytics can guide you towards actionable growth opportunities in your organization.</p>
<h1>How Organizations Use Analytics to Boost Engagement</h1>
<p>Smart organizations don’t just <i>guess </i>what their members want. They said that when you assume, you… Well, you know the rest.</p>
<p>Instead, when it comes to making strategic decisions that impact the organization, tech-savvy organizations typically use data to:</p>
<ul>
<li aria-level="1"><b>Personalize experiences</b>, making members feel special and seen.</li>
<li aria-level="1"><b>Track trends in engagement</b> (a.k.a what’s hot and what’s not) so that you can do more of what works (and less of what doesn’t!).</li>
<li aria-level="1"><b>Spot at-risk members before they leave</b>. It’s all about retention, so knowing who’s on the fence about renewing is vital for targeting outreach.</li>
<li aria-level="1"><a href="https://vocalmeet.com/guide-to-optimizing-your-marketing-channels/"><b>Optimize marketing</b></a><b> and messaging</b> to hit the right audience every time. Better campaigns mean better engagement, after all!</li>
</ul>
<h1>Types of Member Data You Can Track</h1>
<p>If you want data to work for you, you need to know what exactly you should be tracking. Here are some key metrics you’ll want to keep an eye on:</p>
<ul>
<li aria-level="1"><b>Demographics</b>: Data points like age, location, and job title can help you craft more effective messaging.</li>
<li aria-level="1"><b>Behavior</b>: What content are they interested in? How often are they logging in? This can help you tailor your communications.</li>
<li aria-level="1"><b>Engagement Metrics</b>: Event participation, email open rates, and social media interactions all indicate investment.</li>
<li aria-level="1"><b>Feedback</b>: <a href="https://vocalmeet.com/7-feedback-collection-strategies-for-association-success/">Surveys, reviews, and direct member input</a> are vital; after all, what better place is there to get your information than straight from the source?</li>
</ul>
<p>Every organization is different, so don’t hesitate to add additional, more specific data points to your list. Sometimes you just have to throw some spaghetti at the wall and see what sticks!</p>
<h1>Key Benefits of Leveraging Analytics</h1>
<p>Now that you know what to track, it’s time to talk about why it <i>matters</i>. Harnessing the power of data analytics can transform your member-based organization by providing crucial insight on what changes should be made (or not made!) to help you get closer to achieving your organization’s goals.</p>
<p>So, let’s talk implementation: what can you do with the analytics you gather?</p>
<h2><b>1. Create Tailored Experiences</b></h2>
<p>Nobody likes a one-size-fits-all approach. Data lets you segment members into groups to send more <a href="https://vocalmeet.com/leveraging-ai-better-content-and-support/">personalized event invitations, content suggestions, and messages</a> that actually resonate.</p>
<p>For instance, suppose your data shows a group of members who frequently download resources on a specific topic, such as new industry regulations. Instead of sending them the standard general newsletter, you can automatically place them in a segmented list that delivers deep-dive articles and invites them to join a related special-interest committee!</p>
<h2><b>2. Enhance Decision-Making</b></h2>
<p>No more “winging it”! Data-driven insights help you make smarter, more strategic choices, whether you’re choosing what kind of events to host or debating how to tweak your <a href="https://vocalmeet.com/lms-is-more-than-just-a-tool/">onboarding process</a>.</p>
<p>In an article written by the University of Pennsylvania (2022) entitled “<i>5 Key Reasons Why Data Analytics Is Important to Business</i>”, they explained that organizations can become more proactive in identifying opportunities guided by the validity of data, rather than simple intuition or industry experience. This helps you feel confident that each decision you make is data-backed and justifiable.</p>
<p>Now, this all sounds great, but what should you actually do?</p>
<p>Simple: track your stats! Consider factors like:</p>
<ul>
<li aria-level="1">Where do people spend the most time on your website?</li>
<li aria-level="1">What’s the typical renewal rate in the first year of members joining?</li>
<li aria-level="1">Which events get the most engagement?</li>
</ul>
<p>Asking these questions (and then finding the answers) will help your organization perfect its processes across the board.</p>
<h2><b>3. Optimize Marketing and Communication</b></h2>
<p>Ever sent out a newsletter that nobody opened? Analytics help you understand what resonates with your audience so you can craft messages that actually get clicks.</p>
<p>Keep an eye on how many emails bounce, how many get opened, and how many links get clicked–then, experiment! It’s all about testing new things and finding out what works, what doesn’t, and what to try next.</p>
<h2><b>4. Predict Member Behavior</b></h2>
<p>Imagine being able to identify when a member is about to disengage before it actually happens. What if you knew which benefits members liked most? What if you knew what topics your members were most interested in before planning conference sessions?</p>
<p>With analytics, it’s not a guessing game–you can spot trends and take action right away. Reach out to those who have drifted away and remind them of all you offer; find out which benefits get the most engagement and promote them to new members; track which courses are the most popular and use them as a template for future content.</p>
<h1>Implementing an Effective Member Analytics Strategy</h1>
<p>Now that you know the <i>what </i>and the <i>why </i>of analytics, let’s talk about the <i>how</i>.</p>
<h2><b>1. Set Clear Objectives</b></h2>
<p>Consider: what do you want to achieve?</p>
<ul>
<li aria-level="1"><a href="https://vocalmeet.com/boredom-is-the-enemy/">More engagement</a>?</li>
<li aria-level="1">Higher retention?</li>
<li aria-level="1"><a href="https://vocalmeet.com/next-event-best-event/">More event sign-ups</a>?</li>
</ul>
<p>Define your goals so you can measure success properly. Then: track it all! Knowing is only half the battle–make sure you’re following up with your own objectives regularly and checking your analytics periodically to make sure your initiatives are going as planned.</p>
<h2><b>2. Align Analytics with Membership Goals</b></h2>
<p>Your data should empower your organization, <i>not </i>overwhelm it.</p>
<p>Instead of getting lost in endless metrics, prioritize tracking the key performance indicators (KPIs) that most impact your membership growth, engagement, and retention.</p>
<p>By aligning the analytics you pay the most attention to with your strategic goals, you can make data-driven decisions that enhance member experiences, strengthen loyalty, and drive long-term success.</p>
<h2><b>3. Define Your KPIs</b></h2>
<p>Keep tabs on things like:</p>
<ul>
<li aria-level="1"><b>Engagement Scores</b></li>
</ul>
<p>How much does each of your members engage with your sites? By tracking engagement scores, you can spot unengaged members and reach out to them directly before it’s too late.</p>
<ul>
<li aria-level="1"><b>Retention Rates</b></li>
</ul>
<p>If you see that members keep renewing year after year, that’s great–keep it going! However, if you see a lot of turnover in your member base, that’s a sign you’ll want to <a href="https://vocalmeet.com/the-importance-of-digital-transformation/">change up your organization’s direction</a>.</p>
<ul>
<li aria-level="1"><b>Member Satisfaction</b></li>
</ul>
<p><a href="https://vocalmeet.com/level-up-your-feedback-collection-and-implementation/">Solicit feedback from members</a> to keep an eye on how happy everyone is with your organization’s offerings. You can also track reviews and member correspondence to get a wider view of the general “vibe”.</p>
<p>If you notice more complaints than compliments, it’s time to try something new!</p>
<ul>
<li aria-level="1"><b>Courses Purchased (</b><b><i>and</i></b><b> Completed!)</b></li>
</ul>
<p>If you have a course that’s especially popular in your store, take note–the topic is likely particularly sought-after in your industry! But don’t stop there–you also want to keep an eye on course <i>completions</i>.</p>
<p>Meanwhile, if a course gets a lot of buyers, but <i>not </i>a lot of finishers–well, that means there’s a problem somewhere in the course itself. Take a deeper look to see where members are getting held up. Are the quizzes too hard? Are members stopping the video halfway through?</p>
<p>Remember: the more information you have, the better you can make your content!</p>
<ul>
<li aria-level="1"><b>Event Attendance</b></li>
</ul>
<p>Similar to your on-demand courses, it’s good to track how many people purchase and <a href="https://vocalmeet.com/making-events-accessible-with-live-streaming/">attend your events</a>.</p>
<p>Even better, find out <i>when</i> members purchase–are they early birds, or do they wait right up until the last minute to get their tickets? Knowing this can help your organization plan for things like discounts and promotions.</p>
<ul>
<li aria-level="1"><b>Amount of Support Required</b></li>
</ul>
<p>How many messages requesting support does your organization receive daily? Weekly? Monthly? Do your socials get tagged by members seeking help?</p>
<p>Keeping track of how much support your members need will let you know what needs to be changed in order to keep things running smoothly. After all, <a href="https://vocalmeet.com/how-all-in-one-can-reduce-tech-support/">a good platform can actually help you decrease your tech support tickets</a>!</p>
<h2><b>4. Choose the Right Platform</b></h2>
<p>Not all analytics tools are built the same! Pick a platform that has the right features for your organization. For example, you may be interested in…</p>
<ul>
<li aria-level="1"><b>CRMs</b> can help you track member and non-member information, making it easy to reach out to individuals or run targeted campaigns.</li>
<li aria-level="1"><b>Admin Dashboards</b> can give you real-time insights at a glance.</li>
<li aria-level="1"><b>AI-powered reports </b>can help you track current member behavior and plan for the future more easily than ever before.</li>
<li aria-level="1"><b>360 member view analytics </b>can show you each member’s journey across your platform, letting you know which of your features are the most valuable to your audience.</li>
<li aria-level="1"><b>Member engagement managers </b>can automatically assign members engagement scores based on how often they access the platform, how long they’re on it, and what they do while they’re there.</li>
</ul>
<h2><b>5. Automate for Efficiency</b></h2>
<p>Stop spending hours manually collecting and analyzing data! By automating data collection and reporting, your organization can reduce errors, save valuable time, and gain real-time insights.</p>
<p><a href="https://vocalmeet.com/10-workflows-organizations-can-automate/">Let automation free you from tedious tasks</a> so you can focus on making informed, strategic decisions that drive business growth.</p>
<h2><b>6. Ensure Data Accuracy and Security</b></h2>
<p>Messed-up data means messed-up decisions. Make sure you keep your organization’s data clean with:</p>
<ul>
<li aria-level="1">Regular audits</li>
<li aria-level="1">Privacy regulation compliance</li>
<li aria-level="1"><a href="https://vocalmeet.com/how-to-protect-your-association/">Cybersecurity</a> training for staff</li>
<li aria-level="1">Ethical handling <i>(because member trust is everything!)</i></li>
</ul>
<h2><b>Conclusion</b></h2>
<p>Let’s be real—data analytics isn’t just a nice bonus, it’s a game-changer. Without data, all you’ve really got is guesswork. Nowadays, with the advanced technology that can track our movements in the digital world, every move, click, interaction, and transaction provides a gold mine of data. Tap into your organization’s data and draw conclusions based on facts!</p>
<p>Don’t wait to dive into the numbers: embrace the data-driven mindset, and watch your membership strategy go from basic to brilliant!</p>
<p><a href="https://vocalmeet.com/contact/"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" class="alignnone wp-image-10369 size-full" src="https://vocalmeet.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/CTA-Contact-Us-AiO.png" alt="" width="1200" height="709" srcset="https://vocalmeet.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/CTA-Contact-Us-AiO.png 1200w, https://vocalmeet.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/CTA-Contact-Us-AiO-300x177.png 300w, https://vocalmeet.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/CTA-Contact-Us-AiO-1024x605.png 1024w, https://vocalmeet.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/CTA-Contact-Us-AiO-768x454.png 768w, https://vocalmeet.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/CTA-Contact-Us-AiO-810x479.png 810w, https://vocalmeet.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/CTA-Contact-Us-AiO-560x331.png 560w, https://vocalmeet.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/CTA-Contact-Us-AiO-1100x650.png 1100w, https://vocalmeet.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/CTA-Contact-Us-AiO-120x71.png 120w, https://vocalmeet.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/CTA-Contact-Us-AiO-160x96.png 160w" sizes="(max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px" /></a></p>
<h2><b>References:</b></h2>
<p>Data, L. (2022, September 13). <i>Leveraging Data Analytics to Improve Member Service | CU Management</i>. CU Management. <a href="https://www.cumanagement.com/articles/2022/09/leveraging-data-analytics-improve-member-service">https://www.cumanagement.com/articles/2022/09/leveraging-data-analytics-improve-member-service</a></p>
<p><i>How to Use Data Analytics to Improve Member Retention in Unions | SwiftFox | Everything you need to compete. Whatever your goal.</i> (2024). Swiftfoxcrm.com. <a href="https://www.swiftfoxcrm.com/blog-posts/how-to-use-data-analytics-to-improve-member-retention-in-unions">https://www.swiftfoxcrm.com/blog-posts/how-to-use-data-analytics-to-improve-member-retention-in-unions</a></p>
<p>Schmitz, P., &amp; Schmitz, P. (2024, September 25). <i>Membership Insights: 3 Analytics to Enhance Engagement</i>. AMR Management Services – an Association Management Company. https://amrms.com/member-engagement-analytics/</p>
<p>University of Pennsylvania. (2022, October 20). <i>5 key reasons why data analytics is important to business | penn LPS online</i>. Penn LPS. <a href="https://lpsonline.sas.upenn.edu/features/5-key-reasons-why-data-analytics-important-business">https://lpsonline.sas.upenn.edu/features/5-key-reasons-why-data-analytics-important-business</a></p>
<p>The post <a rel="nofollow" href="https://vocalmeet.com/mastering-member-management-with-analytics/">Mastering Member Management: Analytics in Action!</a> appeared first on <a rel="nofollow" href="https://vocalmeet.com">Online Learning Solutions | Association Management System | Vocalmeet</a>.</p>
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		<title>On the Go: Why You Should Make Your Organization Mobile-Friendly</title>
		<link>https://vocalmeet.com/making-your-organization-mobile-friendly/</link>
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		<pubDate>Fri, 20 Oct 2023 21:35:52 +0000</pubDate>
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					<description><![CDATA[<p>Making pages mobile-accessible was once a bonus consideration for associations. My, how the times have changed! Nowadays, most online traffic comes from mobile devices, and employing a responsive design to accommodate that traffic is a necessity! Despite this, while organizations everywhere have adopted mobile friendliness, not all are equal. To reap the best rewards, associations [&#8230;]</p>
<p>The post <a rel="nofollow" href="https://vocalmeet.com/making-your-organization-mobile-friendly/">On the Go: Why You Should Make Your Organization Mobile-Friendly</a> appeared first on <a rel="nofollow" href="https://vocalmeet.com">Online Learning Solutions | Association Management System | Vocalmeet</a>.</p>
]]></description>
										<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Making pages mobile-accessible was once a bonus consideration for associations. My, how the times have changed!</p>
<p>Nowadays, most online traffic comes from mobile devices, and <a href="https://vocalmeet.com/why-you-need-a-mobile-responsive-website/">employing a responsive design to accommodate that traffic is a necessity</a>!</p>
<p>Despite this, while organizations everywhere have adopted mobile friendliness, not all are equal. To reap the best rewards, associations must make having mobile-responsive and accessible designs a priority.</p>
<p>Thankfully, that’s where this article comes in! Let’s take a look at why organizations are increasingly looking at mobile-friendly designs:</p>
<h1>1. Improved Communication</h1>
<p>It&#8217;s no secret that mobile access encourages communication, but getting the most for your users in this area requires some forethought.</p>
<p>The goal should be to create the most interactive design possible. You want users feeling compelled to communicate with you–and with other users–regardless of what page they’re on.</p>
<p>Since mobile users are already in a more communicative state (they are on communication devices, after all!), be sure to make a variety of mobile applications and digital tools compatible with your system. You may consider push notifications, system text message capabilities, or click-to-call functionalities to allow for contact any time, anywhere.</p>
<p>Another consideration is to integrate your association’s <a href="https://vocalmeet.com/technology-tips-and-tools-to-help-bar-associations-build-trust-and-support-members-part-5/">social media</a> into your organizational structure. This means more than just adding the odd social media link on pages: it&#8217;s about developing an entire social media marketing plan and presence.</p>
<p>You want your members, partners, and consumers to have the chance to engage with you and each other from <i>anywhere</i>. Over time, this can lead to better collaboration among members, more time spent with your organization, increased time and financial investment, and greater member loyalty!</p>
<h1>2. Boosted Productivity</h1>
<p>A mobile-friendly organization is often a <a href="https://vocalmeet.com/staff-shortages-and-associations-how-the-right-lms-can-help-you-out/">more <i>productive </i>organization</a>. Users of all kinds can access the various facets of the organization&#8217;s online system whenever and wherever. Work? Commute? On the couch? No problem–your site is there! Members and staff can collaborate more easily, respond more quickly, and get more involved with less stress.</p>
<p>For the greatest impact, organizations should consider adopting a more mobile-forward approach. In both work and training, for example, studies have shown that participants are typically more motivated and productive when using mobile devices–especially when in a remote environment.</p>
<p>Organizations may wish to look into mobile-integrated data software, such as one of the many enterprise resource planning (ERP) systems that are available; these systems help manage mobile data and make it actionable, allowing users to access data updates and reports in real-time. The information available to individual users can be automatically customized and filtered to ensure only the most relevant and required data streams are made available.</p>
<h1>3. Reduced Costs</h1>
<p>Another substantial benefit to a mobile-friendly organization is the cost reduction that can result. More remote capabilities means fewer physical requirements for organizations, as well as less travel for staff and members.</p>
<p>At scale, reusable online and digital content replaces expensive physical materials and time-consuming in-person meetings and events. Organizations can also replace their physical storage systems in favor of the<a href="https://vocalmeet.com/technological-tips-and-tools-to-help-bar-associations-build-trust-and-support-members-part-3/"> more cost-effective <i></i></a><a href="https://vocalmeet.com/technological-tips-and-tools-to-help-bar-associations-build-trust-and-support-members-part-3/"><i>cloud</i></a>.</p>
<p>It&#8217;s also important to note that a properly designed mobile online presence is also much less restrictive than developing mobile apps after the fact.</p>
<p>App development, for example, generally requires organizations to create different apps for different platforms, whereas mobile-forward design typically accommodates all users and platforms right away. App development can also take considerably more time, steps, and money.</p>
<p>Though revamping your platform to a mobile design may require more of an investment in the initial stages, it offers fewer barriers and increased savings for everyone in the long run!</p>
<h1>4. Expanded Reach</h1>
<p>An accessible mobile organization offers a larger landing spot for users everywhere.</p>
<p>In general, mobile readiness and accessibility<a href="https://vocalmeet.com/next-event-best-event/"> extends the reach</a> of an organization for consumers, members, and advertising capabilities. For advertisers in particular, partnerships are more diverse, go further, last longer.</p>
<p>In fact, mobile design typically provides better <a href="https://vocalmeet.com/how-to-get-sponsors-for-your-next-event/">advertising and sponsorship opportunities</a> overall, as mobile marketing strategies are proving to be some of the most effective available. Mobile design can also lead to a more developed brand identity and more pervasive brand awareness.</p>
<p>In terms of developing an online presence, mobile friendliness is absolutely crucial. <a href="https://vocalmeet.com/online-design-101/">Modern Search Engine Optimization (SEO)</a> strategies require a strong mobile design to be effective. All of the major search engines understand how central mobile usage is among online usage, so mobile access is now mandatory among the top search results.</p>
<p>Consequently, if you want the competitive advantage, you have to make mobile responsiveness and design a necessity!</p>
<h1>5. Increased Accessibility</h1>
<p>True mobile device accessibility accommodates a wide variety of users and devices. This goes beyond standard mobile functions; mobile devices have the ability to bridge the gap between offline and online worlds and media.</p>
<p>For example, your organization may consider adopting QR code technology to allow users to perform actions both online and offline. For instance, this type of application can make information accessible on mobile devices whether they have an internet connection or not.</p>
<p>Though mobility is often synonymous with <a href="https://vocalmeet.com/why-legal-associations-should-care-about-their-website/">accessibility</a>, many standard mobile sites are rather inaccessible, particularly for users with visual, auditory, and cognitive disabilities. Fully accessible pages allow users to customize their experience to meet their individual needs. These sites may allow for changes to the standard navigation or layout; they may enable users to change the font and screen layouts, altering text sizes and type or manipulating the brightness, colours, and contrasts on the screen.</p>
<p>Another option is to integrate voice control functionality and a variety of other assistive devices, screen-reader technologies, and keyboard navigation. Some simple considerations that go a long way are to include closed captions, allow for pinch and zoom, and support dynamic design type and styles.</p>
<p>The more accessible and inclusive your design, the more members you’ll be able to reach!</p>
<h1>6. Enhanced Experience</h1>
<p>A mobile experience is often a more <i>enjoyable</i> one.</p>
<p>Members and users are kept happier because of the mobile integration and less stressful settings. They can work with their peers freely and easily, and they can do so from wherever they like.</p>
<p>Furthermore, by improving the accessibility of your platform to welcome all users properly, your organization will better accommodate the requirements of the AODA and the needs of users with disabilities.</p>
<p>One of the most important things to remember is that a mobile-friendly experience is <i>not </i>a “lesser” experience. Mobile technology is fully capable of maintaining all standard business and membership operations from a distance. Instead of using mobile design as an <i>alternative </i>to the standard desktop method, consider it an amplification of your original design.</p>
<p>After all, your smartphone is (almost) always with you when you’re on the go!</p>
<p><b><i>You may also like:</i></b> <a href="https://vocalmeet.com/11-challenges-and-solutions-digital-transformation/"><strong>11 Challenges (and Solutions!) of Digital Transformation</strong></a></p>
<h1>Conclusion</h1>
<p>When it comes down to it, organizations must recognize that mobile accessibility, responsivity, and design isn&#8217;t just a trend but a vital strategy for success.</p>
<p>By prioritizing mobile-friendliness, you not only adapt to the current digital climate but also position your association for <a href="https://vocalmeet.com/live-learning-online-2/">future growth and opportunities</a>. Embrace the mobile revolution, and watch your organization thrive in a connected world!</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<h2>Sources</h2>
<div>
<p>Craig, W. (2019, May). Advantages of Mobile Technology in Business | DenMark. Retrieved from DenMark Business Solutions, Inc. website: https://denmarkbusinesssolutions.com/2019/05/01/benefits-of-mobile-technology-for-business/</p>
<p>Cullipher, V. (2018, January 25). 3 Important Reasons to Make Your Mobile Website Accessible. Retrieved from Microassist website: https://www.microassist.com/digital-accessibility/why-make-your-mobile-website-accessible/</p>
<p>Gutierrez, K. (n.d.). Mobile Learning Stats that Will Make You Rethink Your Training Strategy. Retrieved from www.shiftelearning.com website: https://www.shiftelearning.com/blog/bid/331987/mobile-learning-stats-that-will-make-you-rethink-your-training-strategy</p>
<p>Powell, F. (n.d.). Five advantages of mobile marketing over online | Mobile Marketer. Retrieved September 8, 2021, from www.mobilemarketer.com website: https://www.mobilemarketer.com/ex/mobilemarketer/cms/opinion/columns/5478.html</p>
<p>Summerfield, J. (n.d.). Advantages of Mobile Website Optimization. Retrieved from www.hswsolutions.com website: https://www.hswsolutions.com/services/mobile-web-development/advantages/</p>
<p>The Importance Of Responsive Web Design | Digital Next. (2019, February 28). Retrieved from Digital Next website: https://digitalnext.co.uk/dn-hub/blog/importance-of-responsive-web-design/</p>
</div>
<p>The post <a rel="nofollow" href="https://vocalmeet.com/making-your-organization-mobile-friendly/">On the Go: Why You Should Make Your Organization Mobile-Friendly</a> appeared first on <a rel="nofollow" href="https://vocalmeet.com">Online Learning Solutions | Association Management System | Vocalmeet</a>.</p>
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		<title>11 Challenges (and Solutions!) of Digital Transformation</title>
		<link>https://vocalmeet.com/11-challenges-and-solutions-digital-transformation/</link>
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		<pubDate>Wed, 21 Jun 2023 15:00:02 +0000</pubDate>
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					<description><![CDATA[<p>Digital transformation is the process of using technology to significantly improve business processes by laying the technological framework needed to sustain long-term growth. It can bring many benefits to professional associations, but it can also present several challenges that must be solved to achieve successful implementation.  Today, we’ll be looking at some of the key [&#8230;]</p>
<p>The post <a rel="nofollow" href="https://vocalmeet.com/11-challenges-and-solutions-digital-transformation/">11 Challenges (and Solutions!) of Digital Transformation</a> appeared first on <a rel="nofollow" href="https://vocalmeet.com">Online Learning Solutions | Association Management System | Vocalmeet</a>.</p>
]]></description>
										<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><a href="https://vocalmeet.com/the-importance-of-digital-transformation/"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Digital transformation</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;"> is the process of using technology to significantly improve business processes by laying the technological framework needed to sustain long-term growth. It can bring many benefits to professional associations, but it can also present several challenges that must be solved to achieve successful implementation. </span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Today, we’ll be looking at some of the key challenges of digital transformation for professional associations–</span><i><span style="font-weight: 400;">and</span></i><span style="font-weight: 400;"> how you can solve them!</span></p>
<h2><span style="font-weight: 400;">1. Legacy Systems</span></h2>
<p><b><i>The Challenge: </i></b><span style="font-weight: 400;">Professional associations may have legacy systems that are difficult to integrate with new technologies. This can make it challenging to modernize an organization’s IT infrastructure and implement new tools, such as </span><a href="https://vocalmeet.com/learning-management-systems-for-associations-an-overview/"><span style="font-weight: 400;">learning management systems</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;">.</span></p>
<p><b><i>The Solution:</i></b> <span style="font-weight: 400;">Instead of attempting a complete overhaul of their IT infrastructure, associations should consider a phased approach. </span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Start by modernizing one system or a set of related systems at a time. </span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">This allows for better resource allocation and minimizes disruption; it also enables the organization to learn from each phase before proceeding to the next.</span></p>
<h2><span style="font-weight: 400;">2. Cultural Resistance</span></h2>
<p><b><i>The Challenge: </i></b><span style="font-weight: 400;">Change management can be a significant challenge for professional associations, as some members may be resistant to change or unfamiliar with digital technologies. This can make it difficult to gain support for digital transformation strategies.</span></p>
<p><b><i>The Solution:</i></b> <span style="font-weight: 400;">The answer lies in clear communication and transparency. </span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Associations should ensure that the goals, benefits, and rationale behind their digital transformation initiatives are clearly communicated to all members and stakeholders. </span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Provide regular updates on any and all progress, challenges, and expected outcomes. </span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Transparency helps to build trust and understanding, reducing resistance to change.</span></p>
<h2><span style="font-weight: 400;">3. Comfort with the Status Quo</span></h2>
<p><b><i>The Challenge: </i></b><span style="font-weight: 400;">Many people are comfortable with the way things are and may not see the need for change. They may also be hesitant to disrupt existing systems–even if they’re inefficient or outdated.</span></p>
<p><b><i>The Solution:</i></b><span style="font-weight: 400;"> Create a sense of urgency. Clearly communicate the reasons why change is necessary and the risks of maintaining the status quo. </span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Highlight external factors (such as industry trends, emerging technologies, and evolving member expectations) that necessitate adaptation. </span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">By creating a sense of urgency, you can motivate members and stakeholders to embrace change and overcome their comfort with the existing systems.</span></p>
<h2><span style="font-weight: 400;">4. Lack of Understanding</span></h2>
<p><b><i>The Challenge:</i></b> <span style="font-weight: 400;">Sometimes, people may not fully understand the benefits of updating technology to reduce complexity. They may not see how it will improve their work (or the organization as a whole), leading to resistance to change.</span></p>
<p><b><i>The Solution:</i></b> <a href="https://vocalmeet.com/kindness-becomes-its-own-motive/"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Clearly communicate</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;"> the advantages of the transformation. Develop a comprehensive communication strategy to clearly outline the benefits of updating technology to reduce complexity; make sure to use concrete examples for the best results! Look into similar organizations and see how they have used digital transformation to thrive. </span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Explain how the new technology will simplify workflows, streamline processes, and improve efficiency for staff, while improving the user interface and experience for members. Emphasize the positive impact transformation will have on the organization as a whole.</span></p>
<h2><span style="font-weight: 400;">5. Fear of Failure</span></h2>
<p><b><i>The Challenge:</i></b> <span style="font-weight: 400;">Changing processes can be risky, and some people may be afraid of failure or making mistakes. </span><a href="https://vocalmeet.com/updating-your-associations-technology/"><span style="font-weight: 400;">This fear can lead to a preference for sticking with what they know.</span></a></p>
<p><b><i>The Solution: </i></b><span style="font-weight: 400;">Break the process down into manageable steps. By deconstructing transformation into smaller, more achievable steps, an association can reduce the level of risk and increase their likelihood of success. </span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">On the member side, a phased system of change allows an organization’s audience to build confidence as they learn the new technology. </span></p>
<h2><span style="font-weight: 400;">6. Inadequate Training and Support</span></h2>
<p><b><i>The Challenge: </i></b><span style="font-weight: 400;">If people don’t get </span><a href="https://vocalmeet.com/post-purchase-service-why-its-crucial-when-picking-an-lms-vendor/"><span style="font-weight: 400;">adequate training and support</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;"> when switching to new processes, they may be reluctant to change. They may also feel overwhelmed by the new technology and processes, making them hesitant to update.</span></p>
<p><b><i>The Solution:</i></b> <span style="font-weight: 400;">Develop comprehensive training programs that cover the new technology, processes, and any associated changes. </span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Offer a variety of training formats, including workshops, webinars, e-learning modules, user-friendly documentation, and one-on-one coaching. Ensure that the training is tailored to different user roles (as well as for staff and for members) and skill levels, providing step-by-step guidance and practical examples. </span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Consider also hosting dedicated support channels (such as a helpdesk, email support, or chat support) to address member questions and concerns promptly. </span></p>
<h2><span style="font-weight: 400;">7. Cost</span></h2>
<p><b><i>The Challenge:</i></b> <span style="font-weight: 400;">Digital transformation can require significant investment in new technology and systems, which may be a challenge for associations with limited budgets. </span></p>
<p><b><i>The Solution:</i></b> <span style="font-weight: 400;">Conduct a thorough cost-benefit analysis to determine the potential </span><a href="https://vocalmeet.com/roi-101-calculate-the-return-of-an-lms/"><span style="font-weight: 400;">return on investment (ROI)</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;"> of the proposed changes. Associations should identify the areas where their investments will have the greatest impact and align them with their organization&#8217;s strategic goals. This analysis can help prioritize investments and demonstrate the value of digital transformation to stakeholders. </span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Next, </span><a href="https://vocalmeet.com/discover-how-associations-earn-additional-non-dues-revenue/"><span style="font-weight: 400;">explore funding opportunities</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;"> through grants, partnerships, or sponsorships that specifically support digital transformation initiatives. Look for government programs, industry associations, or foundations that provide funding for technology upgrades or digital initiatives. </span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Collaborating with other associations or organizations in the same sector may also provide cost-sharing opportunities.</span></p>
<h2><span style="font-weight: 400;">8. Security</span></h2>
<p><b><i>The Challenge:</i></b> <span style="font-weight: 400;">With more data being stored and transferred digitally, </span><a href="https://vocalmeet.com/technology-tips-and-tools-to-help-bar-associations-build-trust-and-support-members-part-4/"><span style="font-weight: 400;">there will always be concerns</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;"> about data breaches and </span><a href="https://vocalmeet.com/how-to-protect-your-association/"><span style="font-weight: 400;">cyber attacks</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;">. Professional associations must ensure that they have thorough security measures in place to protect their data and their members&#8217; data.</span></p>
<p><b><i>The Solution:</i></b> <span style="font-weight: 400;">Conduct regular security audits and assessments to identify potential risks and address them promptly. These assessments will help point out potential points of vulnerability in an organization&#8217;s systems, processes, and infrastructure. Audits should also include an evaluation of network security, data protection practices, access controls, and compliance with relevant regulations.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Additionally, associations should educate staff and members about security best practices, such as strong password management, phishing awareness, and data protection protocols. Regularly conduct training sessions and awareness campaigns to keep security practices top of mind. </span></p>
<h2><span style="font-weight: 400;">9. Skill Gap</span></h2>
<p><b><i>The Challenge:</i></b> <span style="font-weight: 400;">Digital transformation can require new skills that staff and members of an organization don’t possess yet. Associations may need to develop or hire new talent to support the transition.</span></p>
<p><b><i>The Solution:</i></b> <span style="font-weight: 400;">Conduct a thorough assessment of existing skills within the association to identify the gaps that need to be addressed. Determine the specific competencies required for successful digital transformation and compare them to the current skill sets of staff and members. This analysis will provide a clear understanding of the areas where additional training or new talent is needed.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Then, develop training programs to meet these needs. Offer a variety of learning opportunities (such as workshops, online courses, webinars, or mentoring programs) to help individuals acquire the necessary skills. </span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Associations can even collaborate with external training providers or industry experts to deliver specialized training in areas such as data analytics, digital marketing, or technology implementation. </span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Encourage continuous learning and provide ongoing support to ensure skill development.</span></p>
<h2><span style="font-weight: 400;">10. Legal and Compliance Issues</span></h2>
<p><b><i>The Challenge: </i></b><span style="font-weight: 400;">Digital transformation may also bring new legal and compliance requirements that associations need to be aware of, such as data protection laws and regulations.</span></p>
<p><b><i>The Solution: </i></b><span style="font-weight: 400;">Conduct an assessment to identify potential legal and compliance gaps within the association&#8217;s existing processes and systems. Associations can evaluate their data handling practices, consent mechanisms, security measures, and any other areas that may be impacted by regulatory requirements. This assessment will help identify areas that need attention and ensure compliance with relevant laws.</span></p>
<h2><span style="font-weight: 400;">11. Stakeholder Management</span></h2>
<p><b><i>The Challenge:</i></b> <span style="font-weight: 400;">Professional associations often have multiple stakeholders, including members, partners, and regulators. Managing the expectations and needs of these stakeholders during periods of digital transformation can be challenging.</span></p>
<p><b><i>The Solution:</i></b> <span style="font-weight: 400;">First, set realistic expectations with stakeholders regarding the timeline, outcomes, and potential challenges of the digital transformation process. Be transparent about any limitations or constraints that may affect implementation. Clearly communicate the benefits and value that the transformation will bring to stakeholders to gain their support.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Then, work on actively engaging with stakeholders to gather their input and involve them in decision-making processes wherever possible. Seek their opinions, ideas, and suggestions to shape the process in a way that everyone will be happy with.</span></p>
<h1><span style="font-weight: 400;">Conclusion</span></h1>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">When it comes down to it, the benefits of digital transformation far exceed their challenges. </span><a href="https://vocalmeet.com/keeping-current-with-technology/"><span style="font-weight: 400;">While making the change can be difficult</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;">, associations that implement digital transformation improve their ability to engage members, deliver value, and drive growth. </span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Take the plunge and </span><a href="http://vocalmeet.com/contact-us"><span style="font-weight: 400;">discover how your association can start the process</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;"> today!</span></p>
<p>The post <a rel="nofollow" href="https://vocalmeet.com/11-challenges-and-solutions-digital-transformation/">11 Challenges (and Solutions!) of Digital Transformation</a> appeared first on <a rel="nofollow" href="https://vocalmeet.com">Online Learning Solutions | Association Management System | Vocalmeet</a>.</p>
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		<title>How Digital Transformation Drives Association Success</title>
		<link>https://vocalmeet.com/the-importance-of-digital-transformation/</link>
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		<pubDate>Fri, 26 May 2023 18:12:57 +0000</pubDate>
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					<description><![CDATA[<p>In today’s digital age, organizations across industries are undergoing a major shift known as digital transformation. Member-based organizations, of course, are no exception. “Digital transformation” refers to the integration of digital technology with all aspects of an organization’s operations, from communication and data management to decision-making and service delivery. Today, we’ll be exploring the key [&#8230;]</p>
<p>The post <a rel="nofollow" href="https://vocalmeet.com/the-importance-of-digital-transformation/">How Digital Transformation Drives Association Success</a> appeared first on <a rel="nofollow" href="https://vocalmeet.com">Online Learning Solutions | Association Management System | Vocalmeet</a>.</p>
]]></description>
										<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>In today’s digital age, organizations across industries are undergoing a major shift known as <i>digital transformation</i>. Member-based organizations, of course, are no exception.</p>
<p>“Digital transformation” refers to the integration of digital technology with all aspects of an organization’s operations, from communication and data management to decision-making and service delivery.</p>
<p>Today, we’ll be exploring the key reasons why digital transformation is crucial and how it can be used to help organizations stay relevant and competitive in a rapidly changing landscape.</p>
<h1>The Benefits of Digital Transformation</h1>
<p>There are many benefits to embracing digital transformation for your organization. We’ll now go over them together:</p>
<h2><b>1.  Better Decision-Making</b></h2>
<p>Digital technologies enable member-based organizations to gather vast amounts of data from various sources, including member interactions, platform usage, and engagement metrics.</p>
<p>Using data analytics and other digital tools, organizations can make more informed decisions, identify trends and opportunities, and respond more quickly to changes in the market or industry. The University of Pennsylvania (2022) even explains that, by using a data-driven decision-making model, leaders set up their organizations to be more proactive in identifying opportunities, as they can be guided by their data&#8217;s validity (rather than simple intuition or industry experience).</p>
<p>Whether it’s developing new programs, improving existing services, or optimizing member experiences, data-driven decision-making empowers organizations to align their strategies with their members’ preferences and aspirations.</p>
<p>Paying attention to trends <a href="https://vocalmeet.com/how-an-agile-mindset-benefits-associations/">keeps your organization agile</a> and ready to pivot when needed–whatever that means in your industry.</p>
<p>One essential component of a successful organization’s digital transformation is a robust <i>Association Management System (AMS)</i>. The AMS is the beating heart of any member-based organization; member-based organizations thrive on…well, memberships, after all! With a good AMS, you can control (or even automate!) things like member registrations, renewals, engagement scores, and notifications. Then, you can generate reports on these metrics to see who’s at risk of letting their membership lapse and who’s likely to renew again. Reduce member churn by letting your data guide you!</p>
<p>The <i>Learning Management System (LMS) </i>is also a great contender for digital transformation, especially when equipped with advanced reporting functionality. An LMS should track member engagement, providing valuable information on which courses are popular, which courses get the most completions (vs registrations), and what content members prefer for future product recommendations. These data points offer a wealth of information for organizations to refine their decision-making processes and optimize their offerings to better suit their members’ needs.</p>
<h2><b>2. Improved Member Engagement</b></h2>
<p>Digital transformation can help organizations engage members in new and innovative ways, such as through online communities, <a href="https://vocalmeet.com/to-infinity-and-beyond-social-media/">social media</a>, job boards, and micro-credentialing. This can help organizations build stronger relationships with members and <a href="https://vocalmeet.com/boredom-is-the-enemy/">drive member retention</a>.</p>
<p>First, you want to <a href="https://vocalmeet.com/online-design-101/">make sure your organization’s website is up to par</a>. Your content should be fresh and up-to-date, and your site should be easy to navigate. When designing the user interface, think of things from the perspective of your members: is it intuitive? Always show the value upfront.</p>
<p>Next, bolster your <a href="https://vocalmeet.com/how-associations-can-benefit-from-social-media/">social media accounts</a>. You may think that, as a professional organization, you don’t really <i>need</i> social media. Don’t fall into this trap! Social media is crucial in today’s landscape, and you don’t want to miss out.</p>
<p>It’s also a fantastic way to boost engagement; let members know what’s going on with the organization (new courses, upcoming events, useful articles–if you can think it, you can tweet it!) and invite feedback, whether through polls or simple calls to reply to your posts.</p>
<p>More than ever, members are more likely to interact directly with organizations on social media. After all, who wants to play email tag when you can fire off a question to an organization directly?</p>
<p>Online communities can be fostered on social media, of course, but what can prove to be an especially useful tool is <a href="https://vocalmeet.com/3-strategies-to-boost-member-engagement-online/"><i>member forums</i></a>. These can be tailored to your audience and are easier to moderate, meaning you can keep things on topic and appropriate. This doesn’t mean “no fun allowed”, however! Make sure you host discussion threads where members can mingle, and even look into book club-type online events, where members can read articles or watch videos and discuss.</p>
<p>When it comes down to it, the online world offers your organization limitless potential for engagement. Don’t miss out–test out some strategies now!</p>
<h2><b>3. Enhanced Member Experiences</b></h2>
<p>By using digital technologies to streamline processes and offer personalized experiences, organizations can provide a better overall experience for members, which can position them above competitors.</p>
<p>Make sure your systems are <a href="https://vocalmeet.com/why-you-need-a-mobile-responsive-website/"><i>mobile-responsive</i></a> so you can <a href="https://vocalmeet.com/going-mobile-in-2026/">meet members where they’re at</a><i>.</i> More and more, people are forgoing desktop and laptop computers in favor of their more mobile counterparts: tablets and smartphones (Duarte 2025). Because of this, you want to make sure your organization keeps up. Test your platform on mobile devices and ensure that everything is functional–and attractive!–when viewed on a handheld screen.</p>
<p>You can also consider integrating white-label technology, which allows you to put your brand on the tech you use. This can make transitioning between systems more seamless for members. When combined with <a href="https://vocalmeet.com/saas-integration-and-member-based-organizations-what-you-need-to-know/">single sign-on technology</a>, your members may never even realize they’re switching between platforms–and, honestly? That’s a great goal to aim for!</p>
<h2><b>4. Increased Efficiency</b></h2>
<p>Digital transformation can help organizations <a href="https://vocalmeet.com/staff-shortages-and-associations-how-the-right-lms-can-help-you-out/">automate repetitive tasks</a>, reduce manual duties, and improve data management, which can lead to greater efficiency and cost savings. According to Perez (2023) in the Harvard Business Review, over 90% of surveyed workers reported that automation increased their productivity, and 85% saw boosted team collaboration. Nearly 90% trusted these tools to reduce errors and accelerate decision-making!</p>
<p>Now, you may be thinking, “Optimizing my workflows with automation sounds great and all, but how do I actually start?” Thankfully, the answer is simple! First, go through all of your processes and ask:</p>
<ul>
<li aria-level="1">Why is the task important?</li>
<li aria-level="1">Who completes this task?</li>
<li aria-level="1">When does this process happen</li>
<li aria-level="1">How long does it take to complete the process?</li>
</ul>
<p>Look for workflows with plenty of recurring manual steps; those are the ones that are ripe for automation.</p>
<p>When you automate your tedious administrative tasks, <a href="https://vocalmeet.com/staff-shortages-and-associations-how-the-right-lms-can-help-you-out/">you ease the burden on staff</a> while maintaining high quality. This also means you can continue to focus on members even when times are tough. Give members the digital experience they deserve, regardless of when they visit</p>
<h2><b>5. Competitive Advantage</b></h2>
<p>Organizations that embrace digital transformation can gain a competitive advantage by being more agile, innovative, and responsive to member needs. It’s hard to ignore: the world is growing increasingly online, and it has been for a long time. Don’t push back against the virtual tide; embrace it and learn to go with the flow!</p>
<p><a href="https://vocalmeet.com/keeping-current-with-technology/">Organizations that take advantage of digital technologies</a> put themselves in a far more competitive position than those who continue to fight against the times. According to Gurumurthy et al. (2020), companies with higher digital transformation maturity reported 45% revenue growth, and 29% of highly digitized companies reported a positive impact on growth and innovation.</p>
<p>It can be scary to consider massive technological changes, but those who have courage will be rewarded! For instance, when you switch from juggling multiple vendors with overlapping systems to a natively all-in-one platform, you can <a href="https://vocalmeet.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/Benefits-of-an-All-in-One-min.pdf">cut costs and save manpower</a>–meaning you can put that time and budget elsewhere for better, more impactful initiatives.</p>
<h1>Conclusion</h1>
<p>Digital transformation is no longer a choice but a fundamental requirement for organizations seeking to navigate the evolving landscape successfully. By embracing digital technologies, organizations can improve member engagement, enhance member experiences, increase efficiency, <a href="https://vocalmeet.com/how-an-agile-mindset-benefits-associations/">make better decisions</a>, and gain a competitive boost.</p>
<p>The time to embrace digital transformation is <i>now</i>. Organizations that seize the opportunity set themselves up to not just survive but <i>thrive </i>in this digital era!</p>
<p><a href="http://vocalmeet.com/contact/"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-10343" src="https://vocalmeet.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/CTA-Consult-3.png" alt="" width="1200" height="695" srcset="https://vocalmeet.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/CTA-Consult-3.png 1200w, https://vocalmeet.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/CTA-Consult-3-300x174.png 300w, https://vocalmeet.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/CTA-Consult-3-1024x593.png 1024w, https://vocalmeet.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/CTA-Consult-3-768x445.png 768w, https://vocalmeet.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/CTA-Consult-3-810x469.png 810w, https://vocalmeet.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/CTA-Consult-3-560x324.png 560w, https://vocalmeet.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/CTA-Consult-3-1110x643.png 1110w, https://vocalmeet.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/CTA-Consult-3-120x70.png 120w" sizes="(max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px" /></a></p>
<h2><b>REFERENCES</b></h2>
<p>Badman, A., &amp; Kosinski, M. (2025, February 12). <i>What are data silos?</i> Ibm.com. <a href="https://www.ibm.com/think/topics/data-silos">https://www.ibm.com/think/topics/data-silos</a></p>
<p>Duarte, F. (2025, July 10). Internet Traffic from Mobile Devices (July 2025). <i>Exploding Topics</i>. <a href="https://explodingtopics.com/blog/mobile-internet-traffic">https://explodingtopics.com/blog/mobile-internet-traffic</a></p>
<p>Duke University. (2024). U.S. companies ramp up automation and AI as inflation persists. <a href="https://www.fuqua.duke.edu/duke-fuqua-insights/us-companies-ramp-automation-and-ai-inflation-persists">https://www.fuqua.duke.edu/duke-fuqua-insights/us-companies-ramp-automation-and-ai-inflation-persists</a></p>
<p>Gurumurthy, R., Schatsky, D., &amp; Camhi, J. (2020, May 26). <i>Uncovering the connection between digital maturity and financial performance</i>. Deloitte Insights; Deloitte. <a href="https://www.deloitte.com/us/en/insights/topics/digital-transformation/digital-transformation-survey.html">https://www.deloitte.com/us/en/insights/topics/digital-transformation/digital-transformation-survey.html</a></p>
<p>Perez, J. (2023, April 12). <i>How Automation Drives Business Growth and Efficiency</i>. Harvard Business Review. <a href="https://hbr.org/sponsored/2023/04/how-automation-drives-business-growth-and-efficiency">https://hbr.org/sponsored/2023/04/how-automation-drives-business-growth-and-efficiency</a></p>
<p>The post <a rel="nofollow" href="https://vocalmeet.com/the-importance-of-digital-transformation/">How Digital Transformation Drives Association Success</a> appeared first on <a rel="nofollow" href="https://vocalmeet.com">Online Learning Solutions | Association Management System | Vocalmeet</a>.</p>
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		<title>Why You Need a Mobile Responsive Website</title>
		<link>https://vocalmeet.com/why-you-need-a-mobile-responsive-website/</link>
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		<dc:creator><![CDATA[Vocalmeet]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Tue, 25 Apr 2023 18:41:15 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[Blog]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Industry News]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Vocalmeet Industry Insights]]></category>
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		<guid isPermaLink="false">https://vocalmeet.com/?p=9516</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[<p>So…what is a “responsive website”? A responsive website is a website designed to adapt and reformat itself to fit any device and any screen size. It allows visitors to get the same experience, regardless of what they’re using or where they’re using it.  Responsiveness also encompasses mobile-friendliness, which means that content is displayed cleanly and [&#8230;]</p>
<p>The post <a rel="nofollow" href="https://vocalmeet.com/why-you-need-a-mobile-responsive-website/">Why You Need a Mobile Responsive Website</a> appeared first on <a rel="nofollow" href="https://vocalmeet.com">Online Learning Solutions | Association Management System | Vocalmeet</a>.</p>
]]></description>
										<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">So…what </span><i><span style="font-weight: 400;">is</span></i><span style="font-weight: 400;"> a “responsive website”?</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">A responsive website is </span><a href="https://vocalmeet.com/online-design-101/"><span style="font-weight: 400;">a website designed</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;"> to adapt and reformat itself to fit any device and any screen size.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">It allows visitors to get the same experience, regardless of what they’re using or where they’re using it. </span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Responsiveness also encompasses </span><i><span style="font-weight: 400;">mobile-friendliness</span></i><span style="font-weight: 400;">, which means that content is displayed cleanly and the interface is usable on all devices (like cell phones or tablets!)</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Responsiveness helps mobile users navigate the website easily, and anything that’s interactive and functional on desktop computers is equally usable on mobile.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">While every association will have its own list of reasons for incorporating a mobile-responsive website, there are several benefits that touch nearly </span><i><span style="font-weight: 400;">all </span></i><span style="font-weight: 400;">associations. </span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Let’s take a look at some of the major reasons </span><i><span style="font-weight: 400;">your </span></i><span style="font-weight: 400;">association</span> <span style="font-weight: 400;">could benefit from a mobile responsive website:</span></p>
<h1><span style="font-weight: 400;">1. It’s Not Just Modern–It’s </span><i><span style="font-weight: 400;">Essential</span></i></h1>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Today, the majority of internet users use their mobile devices for their everyday internet activity. </span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">If your website isn&#8217;t set up to handle mobile users, you&#8217;re effectively cutting your traffic </span><i><span style="font-weight: 400;">in half</span></i><span style="font-weight: 400;">–if not more! </span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">But having your site mobile-ready is about more than just that. </span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Mobile-responsivity brings your association into the modern era. If you want to position your association as an industry hub and knowledge center, </span><a href="https://vocalmeet.com/keeping-current-with-technology/"><span style="font-weight: 400;">it&#8217;s important that you demonstrate to your members that you’re current and up-to-date</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;">. </span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Consequently, it’s critical to focus on the first touchpoint your members will encounter: your website!</span></p>
<h1><span style="font-weight: 400;">2. It Boosts Your SEO</span></h1>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">In 2015, Google started making a dramatic shift in the way it ranks websites. </span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">With this algorithm (and all those used after!), mobile-responsive sites rank better than those that aren&#8217;t. </span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">If your website doesn&#8217;t accommodate mobile users, you run the risk of getting hit with a penalty in the form of a lower search ranking. The change was made to reflect how people use the internet; with more users using their phones than their desktops, the best websites are those that incorporate this into their design!</span></p>
<h1><span style="font-weight: 400;">3. It Makes Your Association Easy to Access</span></h1>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">For contemporary internet users, access is king. </span></p>
<p><a href="https://vocalmeet.com/sometimes-more-is-better/"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Websites need to be accessible</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;"> and usable from multiple devices and locations. </span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">For associations that offer online training, courses and modules need to be accessible whenever and wherever to </span><a href="https://vocalmeet.com/so-whats-next-lms/"><span style="font-weight: 400;">allow learners to complete training on the go and in small bunches</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;"> (called “microlearning”). </span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Increased accessibility isn’t just good for your members, though; your association stands to benefit from this, too! With increased access comes </span><i><span style="font-weight: 400;">increased traffic</span></i><span style="font-weight: 400;">, meaning more usage, be that courses purchased and taken, new members, or repeat renewals.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">In general, mobile readiness can help build your association’s brand–after all, you’re ensuring that no members have to miss out just because they’re engaging on the go.</span></p>
<h1><span style="font-weight: 400;">4. It Means Better Engagement </span></h1>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Another major benefit to a responsive website is that mobile devices encourage and drive engagement better than desktops. </span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Mobile websites can use </span><i><span style="font-weight: 400;">click-to-call </span></i><span style="font-weight: 400;">functions, which allow users to call your association with a tap of a button. If someone has to put calling off until later, they may never get around to it!</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Your site can also c</span><a href="https://vocalmeet.com/to-infinity-and-beyond-social-media/"><span style="font-weight: 400;">onnect with social media directly</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;">, as most social media users engage with their favorite channels from their mobile devices; this opens up one of the best communication pathways available between associations and members!</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">The easier you make it for members to interact with your organization, the more they’ll take advantage of it.</span></p>
<h1><span style="font-weight: 400;">5. It Can Improve Event Integration </span></h1>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">While a responsive design can make integration easier and more effective in general, one of the best uses of mobile integration is </span><a href="https://vocalmeet.com/virtual-events-vs-in-person-events-which-should-you-choose-in-2022/"><span style="font-weight: 400;">during an event</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;">. </span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">If users can connect to your website or your event app through their mobile devices, they can pull up an event map, calendar, and program online; even small conveniences can mean a lot on a busy day!</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">With mobile-responsive designs, attendees can network with each other online, play event games, and ask questions of speakers, exhibitors, and administrators straight from their phones. They can also use QR codes to quickly and easily pull up information on exhibitors and products–</span><a href="https://vocalmeet.com/how-to-sell-your-online-courses-to-your-members/"><span style="font-weight: 400;">meaning more sales</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;">!</span></p>
<h1><span style="font-weight: 400;">6. It’s More Flexible and Cost Effective</span></h1>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">When it comes to a responsive design, the bottom line is that it protects your bottom line. </span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Instead of maintaining two websites (including a mobile-only version), a responsive design allows for just one, </span><a href="https://vocalmeet.com/recession-proof-your-association/"><span style="font-weight: 400;">minimizing the administrative efforts</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;"> and maintenance costs required to run it.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Furthermore, when adding new mobile functions and features to your website, a responsive design can save you a considerable amount of time and money than trying to develop your own association app–a notoriously time-consuming and costly endeavor!</span></p>
<p><b><i>You may also like: </i></b><a href="https://vocalmeet.com/technology-consolidation-why-should-your-association-consider-it/"><b>Technology Consolidation: Why Should Your Association Consider It?</b></a></p>
<h1><span style="font-weight: 400;">Conclusion</span></h1>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">When it comes down to it, mobile responsivity has become essential for associations to remain competitive and relevant. </span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Not only can it boost your SEO and improve engagement, it can also make your association more flexible and easy to access. </span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">As technology continues to evolve, a mobile responsive website is one of the best ways to help ensure your association remains successful!</span></p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<h2>Sources</h2>
<div>
<p>Agency, H. B. D. (2017, February 13). 5 Important Mobile-friendly Features Every Website Should Have. Retrieved from Medium website: https://medium.com/@hypeagency/5-important-mobile-friendly-features-every-website-should-have-e57532fba7c6</p>
<p>Anderson, M. K. (2017, July 28). Google Algorithm Now Rewards Mobile-Friendly Sites: Here’s What You Need to Know. Retrieved from blog.hubspot.com website: https://blog.hubspot.com/marketing/google-algorithm-change-mobile-friendly</p>
<p>Bigfin.com. (2017, March 14). The Importance of Mobile-Friendly Websites. Retrieved August 27, 2021, from Bigfin website: https://www.bigfin.com/blog/importance-mobile-friendly-websites/</p>
<p>Hlincik, O. (2015, February 18). Responsive vs. Mobile-Friendly Websites: What’s the Difference? Retrieved from www.atomic74.com website: https://www.atomic74.com/click/responsive-vs-mobile-friendly-websites-whats-the-difference</p>
<p>Interactive, C. (n.d.). The Importance of Designing for Mobile First. Retrieved from www.commonplaces.com website: https://www.commonplaces.com/blog/the-importance-of-designing-for-mobile-first</p>
<p>Rashid, B. (2017, June 14). 5 Essential Reasons You Should Be Using A Responsive Website Design Now. Retrieved August 27, 2021, from Forbes website: https://www.forbes.com/sites/brianrashid/2017/06/13/5-essential-reasons-and-benefits-why-you-should-be-using-a-responsive-website-design-now/#7c42735417c9</p>
<p>Summerfield, J. (n.d.). Advantages of Mobile Website Optimization. Retrieved from www.hswsolutions.com website: https://www.hswsolutions.com/services/mobile-web-development/advantages/</p>
<p>The Importance Of Responsive Web Design | Digital Next. (2019, February 28). Retrieved from Digital Next website: https://digitalnext.co.uk/dn-hub/blog/importance-of-responsive-web-design/</p>
<p>Why is Responsive Design So Important? (2015). Retrieved from Webfx.com website: https://www.webfx.com/web-design/why-responsive-design-important.html</p>
</div>
<p>The post <a rel="nofollow" href="https://vocalmeet.com/why-you-need-a-mobile-responsive-website/">Why You Need a Mobile Responsive Website</a> appeared first on <a rel="nofollow" href="https://vocalmeet.com">Online Learning Solutions | Association Management System | Vocalmeet</a>.</p>
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		<title>Keeping Current with Technology: How Your Association Can Benefit</title>
		<link>https://vocalmeet.com/keeping-current-with-technology/</link>
					<comments>https://vocalmeet.com/keeping-current-with-technology/#comments</comments>
		
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[Vocalmeet]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Tue, 14 Feb 2023 19:44:23 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[Blog]]></category>
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		<guid isPermaLink="false">https://vocalmeet.com/?p=9384</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[<p>It&#8217;s no secret that technology plays an integral role in the success of any organization, and professional associations are no exception. As technology continues to evolve and the pace of change accelerates, the need to stay up-to-date with the latest technology trends is more important than ever. That’s why today, we’re going to explore the [&#8230;]</p>
<p>The post <a rel="nofollow" href="https://vocalmeet.com/keeping-current-with-technology/">Keeping Current with Technology: How Your Association Can Benefit</a> appeared first on <a rel="nofollow" href="https://vocalmeet.com">Online Learning Solutions | Association Management System | Vocalmeet</a>.</p>
]]></description>
										<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">It&#8217;s no secret that technology plays an integral role in the success of any organization, and professional associations are no exception. As technology continues to evolve and the pace of change accelerates, the need to stay up-to-date with the latest technology trends is more important than ever.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">That’s why today, we’re going to explore the importance of staying current when running professional associations; we’ll also be providing tips on finding the right technology solutions for your organization.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Let’s get started!</span></p>
<h1><span style="font-weight: 400;">The Benefits of Staying Current with Technology</span></h1>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">When done strategically, adopting the latest technology can bring a host of benefits to any professional association. </span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Some of the key advantages of staying up-to-date can include:</span></p>
<h2><i><span style="font-weight: 400;">Improved Communication</span></i></h2>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Technology has made it easier than ever to </span><a href="https://vocalmeet.com/technology-tips-and-tools-to-help-bar-associations-build-trust-and-support-members-part-5/"><span style="font-weight: 400;">stay connected with your members</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;">. Keep them informed of association news, upcoming events, important updates, and more with the many opportunities the internet offers. Leveraging social media and email campaigns may be a given, but it’s also good to consider tools that work especially well with associations.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Think of your organization as a living, evolving community. </span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Offer members a way to communicate between themselves, such as with </span><a href="https://vocalmeet.com/online-community-management-system-for-associations/"><span style="font-weight: 400;">online forums and message boards</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;">, where they can discuss any number of industry topics in a simple, easy-to-understand format. This will allow members to share ideas and engage with each other in meaningful ways–giving members more value for their membership in the process!</span></p>
<h2><i><span style="font-weight: 400;">Increased Member Engagement</span></i></h2>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Technology can be used to create interactive, engaging experiences for members. Through virtual meetings and events, associations can create an atmosphere of community engagement and connection. </span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">An easy way for associations to boost member engagement (and excitement!) is to host </span><a href="https://vocalmeet.com/live-webinars-web-conferencing/"><span style="font-weight: 400;">live webinars</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;">. </span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Your organization can try holding short (but frequent), informative live discussions for members. You could invite industry experts to speak on their careers, or host “Ask Me Anything” sessions that allow the audience to have their questions answered–something that could be especially useful for those just starting out in their field!</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">As an added bonus, you can even record these events and </span><a href="https://vocalmeet.com/what-associations-can-do-with-recorded-zoom-sessions/"><span style="font-weight: 400;">turn them into helpful, on-demand continuing education</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;">!</span></p>
<h2><i><span style="font-weight: 400;">Streamlined Operations </span></i></h2>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Technology can help streamline and automate daily tasks, resulting in time and cost savings for your association. By investing in the right technology solutions, you can reduce resource expenditure and </span><a href="https://vocalmeet.com/staff-shortages-and-associations-how-the-right-lms-can-help-you-out/"><span style="font-weight: 400;">gain the ability to do more with less</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;">. </span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">First, you want to look into what’s out there. A </span><a href="https://vocalmeet.com/learning-management-system/"><span style="font-weight: 400;">learning management system</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;"> (LMS) can automate </span><span style="font-weight: 400;">tedious administrative tasks and make the process of managing continuing education, issuing certificates, tracking member progress, and collecting analytics a breeze! You can also look into post scheduling apps like </span><a href="http://hootsuite.com/"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Hootsuite</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;"> or calendar managers like </span><a href="https://calendly.com"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Calendly</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;"> to give your association staff a helpful boost.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">By automating repetitive tasks, your staff will have more time to focus on what really matters: creating value for your members!</span></p>
<h1><span style="font-weight: 400;">Tips for Staying Informed</span></h1>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">The key to staying informed is to be </span><i><span style="font-weight: 400;">proactive</span></i><span style="font-weight: 400;"> and </span><i><span style="font-weight: 400;">flexible</span></i><span style="font-weight: 400;">. Here are some tips to help you keep up-to-date with the latest technology trends:</span></p>
<h2><i><span style="font-weight: 400;">Read Case Studies</span></i></h2>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Itching to find out more about how current technology can help your association? </span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">You’re in luck! </span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">There are many inspiring examples of associations that have successfully implemented new technology to improve their operations and engage their members. </span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">A particularly good resource is the </span><a href="https://www.asaecenter.org/"><span style="font-weight: 400;">American Society of Association Executives</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;"> (ASAE). They offer a number of </span><a href="https://www.asaecenter.org/asae-home/resources/articles/foundation/2022/case-study-give-workers-a-path-to-a-long-term-career"><span style="font-weight: 400;">case studies</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;"> where they share </span><a href="https://www.asaecenter.org/asae-home/resources/articles/an_magazine/2018/january-february/associations-get-up-to-speed-on-blockchain-basics"><span style="font-weight: 400;">how other associations use technology for success</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;">. Browse their archives and you’ll be sure to find some additional tips and tricks on staying current!</span></p>
<h2><i><span style="font-weight: 400;">Subscribe to Technology News Outlets and Blogs</span></i></h2>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Following industry news and trends is a great way to stay informed. You can subscribe to newsletters and blogs to stay up-to-date on the latest news and trends. We particularly like </span><a href="https://associationsnow.com/"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Associations Now</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;">–they have plenty of useful posts!</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">(And, of course, you can always check out Vocalmeet’s own </span><a href="https://vocalmeet.com/vocalmeet-research-hub/"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Knowledge Hub</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;"> to catch up on any articles from us you may have missed!)</span></p>
<h2><i><span style="font-weight: 400;">Attend Industry Events</span></i></h2>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Industry events are great for networking and learning about the latest technologies. They can also help you form relationships with other professionals in the field who can give you valuable insight and strategies for helping maxmimize your association’s value.</span></p>
<h2><i><span style="font-weight: 400;">Attend Demos from Technology Providers</span></i></h2>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Technology providers often host demo events to showcase their products and services. By attending these events, you’ll be able to better understand how technology can be used to improve your association. The more demos you take part in, the more you’ll know!</span></p>
<h1><span style="font-weight: 400;">The Drawbacks of Not Staying Current with Technology</span></h1>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">We’ve looked at why keeping up with technology is essential for any professional association, but what we </span><i><span style="font-weight: 400;">haven’t</span></i><span style="font-weight: 400;"> yet covered is why lagging behind could cause additional issues that may hinder the success of your organization.</span></p>
<p><b>Not staying current with technology could potentially result in:</b></p>
<h2><i><span style="font-weight: 400;">Loss of Membership </span></i></h2>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Members expect their association to stay up-to-date with the latest trends and technologies; they come to you for expertise in all relevant areas, and that includes the technology you use! No one wants to use a platform that looks like it came straight out of the late 90s, so </span><a href="https://vocalmeet.com/do-i-have-your-attention-keeping-members-on-your-associations-website/"><span style="font-weight: 400;">make sure you’ve got a sleek, intuitive interface</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;"> that keeps members coming back for more.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Remember: if your association fails to keep up with the competition, members may decide to look elsewhere!</span></p>
<h2><i><span style="font-weight: 400;">Decrease in Engagement</span></i></h2>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Your association needs to be able to engage members in meaningful ways. From your association’s </span><a href="https://vocalmeet.com/how-associations-can-benefit-from-social-media/"><span style="font-weight: 400;">social media</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;"> to its online learning communities and more, you want to be able to </span><a href="https://vocalmeet.com/6-methods-to-easily-increase-member-engagement/"><span style="font-weight: 400;">interact with members on a number of levels</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;">. Don’t pass up the opportunity for creating additional member touch points–you could be losing out on easy engagement!</span></p>
<h2><i><span style="font-weight: 400;">Outdated Processes</span></i></h2>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">If you aren’t keeping up-to-date with your technology, your association may be stuck using outdated processes and systems. This can lead to decreased efficiency and higher costs. Remember: automation saves time </span><i><span style="font-weight: 400;">and</span></i><span style="font-weight: 400;"> money, so by ignoring it in favour of manual labour, you’re taking valuable hours away from your staff–and value away from your members!</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Additionally, if your current systems are hard to navigate, members wont engage with your association on the level you expect. You want your platform to be </span><a href="https://vocalmeet.com/5-things-not-to-leave-out-of-your-lms/"><span style="font-weight: 400;">seamless and simple</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;">, so look into </span><a href="https://vocalmeet.com/saas-integration-and-member-based-organizations-what-you-need-to-know/"><span style="font-weight: 400;">integrating your technology with SaaS</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;"> (software as a service)&#8211;you may be able to make your site even more straightforward for users!</span></p>
<h1><span style="font-weight: 400;">The Importance of Being Flexible</span></h1>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">As technology continues to evolve, it’s </span><a href="https://vocalmeet.com/how-an-agile-mindset-benefits-associations/"><span style="font-weight: 400;">important to be flexible and willing to adapt</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;">. While it can be daunting to adopt new technology, it’s often necessary to stay competitive in today’s fast-paced technological landscape. </span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Take a deep breath, ground yourself, and remember to have courage</span><i><span style="font-weight: 400;">.</span></i><span style="font-weight: 400;"> By keeping an open mind, you’ll be able to consider new ideas and innovations while keeping the anxiety of change at bay. Evaluate the latest technologies your industry has to offer one at a time, and you’ll soon become an expert at determining which ones are the best fit for your organization.</span></p>
<p><b><i>You may also like: </i></b><a href="https://vocalmeet.com/updating-your-associations-technology/"><b><i>Taking the Fear Out of Updating Your Association’s Technology</i></b></a></p>
<h1><span style="font-weight: 400;">Conclusion</span></h1>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">It’s likely clear now how staying current with technology is essential for any professional association. It can be used to improve communication, increase member engagement, and streamline operations, while also helping you avoid the pitfalls of a flagging member base, waning engagement, and outdated process. Additionally, by staying proactive and flexible, you’ll be able to stay in-the-know about the various technology solutions the world has to offer–as well as which ones you want to look into for your own association!</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">If you’re looking to talk about technology solutions for your association with an expert, consider </span><a href="https://vocalmeet.com/contact-us/"><span style="font-weight: 400;">contacting a knowledgeable vendor today</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;">. With the right technology, your association will be better equipped to stay competitive and successful in today’s fast-moving landscape–no matter how much it changes!</span></p>
<p>The post <a rel="nofollow" href="https://vocalmeet.com/keeping-current-with-technology/">Keeping Current with Technology: How Your Association Can Benefit</a> appeared first on <a rel="nofollow" href="https://vocalmeet.com">Online Learning Solutions | Association Management System | Vocalmeet</a>.</p>
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		<title>Technology Tips and Tools to Help Bar Associations Build Trust and Support Members &#8211; Part 5</title>
		<link>https://vocalmeet.com/technology-tips-and-tools-to-help-bar-associations-build-trust-and-support-members-part-5/</link>
					<comments>https://vocalmeet.com/technology-tips-and-tools-to-help-bar-associations-build-trust-and-support-members-part-5/#comments</comments>
		
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[Vocalmeet]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Tue, 06 Dec 2022 18:59:18 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[Blog]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Industry News]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Vocalmeet Industry Insights]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[association]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[associations]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Best Practice]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[e-learning]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[embracing change]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Hub: Association Technology]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[increase membership]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[increase revenue]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Lexum]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[membership engagement]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[organization]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Social Media]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[technology]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[vocalmeet]]></category>
		<guid isPermaLink="false">https://vocalmeet.com/?p=9287</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[<p>Since starting the Vocalmeet/Lexum article series, we’ve covered website improvement, research tools, cloud functionality, and online safety. Today, we’ll wrap up by covering how you can gain attention and help members with one of the internet’s best networking tools: social media! Tool: Social Media (and Related Apps) Next to your association’s website, social media may [&#8230;]</p>
<p>The post <a rel="nofollow" href="https://vocalmeet.com/technology-tips-and-tools-to-help-bar-associations-build-trust-and-support-members-part-5/">Technology Tips and Tools to Help Bar Associations Build Trust and Support Members &#8211; Part 5</a> appeared first on <a rel="nofollow" href="https://vocalmeet.com">Online Learning Solutions | Association Management System | Vocalmeet</a>.</p>
]]></description>
										<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Since starting the <a href="https://vocalmeet.com/">Vocalmeet</a>/<a href="https://lexum.com/en/">Lexum</a> article series, we’ve covered <a href="https://vocalmeet.com/technological-tips-and-tools-to-help-bar-associations-build-trust-and-support-members-part-1/">website improvement</a>, <a href="https://vocalmeet.com/technological-tips-and-tools-to-help-bar-associations-build-trust-and-support-members-part-2/">research tools</a>, <a href="https://vocalmeet.com/technological-tips-and-tools-to-help-bar-associations-build-trust-and-support-members-part-3/">cloud functionality</a>, and <a href="https://vocalmeet.com/technology-tips-and-tools-to-help-bar-associations-build-trust-and-support-members-part-4/">online safety</a>. Today, we’ll wrap up by covering how you can gain attention and help members with one of the internet’s best networking tools: social media!</p>
<h2><strong>Tool: Social Media (and Related Apps)</strong></h2>
<p>Next to your association’s website, <a href="https://vocalmeet.com/how-associations-can-benefit-from-social-media/">social media may be the next most commonly pointed-to source of potential</a>. On social media platforms (like LinkedIn, Facebook, and Twitter), you can reach out to your members <em>directly</em>.</p>
<p>While IT support and ticketing systems will always be the main way to solve problems, people are becoming increasingly more likely to reach out to organizations on social media–especially when it comes to more general questions or concerns. When this happens, be sure to listen; timely and helpful responses are always appreciated.</p>
<p>Social media doesn’t just go one way, however; if your association is wondering about the wants and needs of its members, don’t hesitate–reach out to them! Consider using the poll option if your question is more of the multiple-choice variety.</p>
<h3><strong>Hootsuite</strong></h3>
<p>Running an association involves a lot of administration and coordination, so simplify things by making use of <a href="https://www.hootsuite.com/">media management platforms like <em>Hootsuite</em></a>. Hootsuite lets you queue posts on your social channels ahead of time, meaning you can schedule blocks of content when it’s most convenient for you. Keep your members up to date with regularly released association news and articles; consistent posting helps improve engagement!</p>
<h3><strong>Canva</strong></h3>
<p>If you find it difficult to design marketing copy, <a href="https://www.canva.com/">graphic design platforms like <em>Canva</em></a> could be the perfect tool to help you out. Canva lets you create quality ads, posts, slides, articles, and more–if it’s something that can be formatted, Canva probably has it. Grab your members’ attention with chic, eye-catching posts and boost your overall social media value.</p>
<p><strong>You may also like:</strong> <a href="https://vocalmeet.com/webinar-5-powerful-growth-strategies/">Webinar blog: 5 Powerful Growth Strategies to Boost Non-Dues Revenue for Your Association in 2022 and Beyond</a></p>
<h2><strong>Conclusion</strong></h2>
<p><a href="https://vocalmeet.com/updating-your-associations-technology/">While the ever-expanding field of technology may seem daunting</a>, bar associations have more tools and strategies available to them now than ever before. Don’t miss out on all the ways you can increase your support to members, build trust, and boost engagement; instead, look into improving your website, enhancing your research techniques, implementing cloud computing, bolstering your online security, and increasing your social media’s value. With the right tools in your belt, you’ll be able to help your members <a href="https://vocalmeet.com/the-4-strategic-plans-your-association-needs-to-survive-and-thrive-in-2021-and-beyond-webinar-replay/">survive and thrive</a> in the present and beyond!</p>
<p>The post <a rel="nofollow" href="https://vocalmeet.com/technology-tips-and-tools-to-help-bar-associations-build-trust-and-support-members-part-5/">Technology Tips and Tools to Help Bar Associations Build Trust and Support Members &#8211; Part 5</a> appeared first on <a rel="nofollow" href="https://vocalmeet.com">Online Learning Solutions | Association Management System | Vocalmeet</a>.</p>
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		<title>Technology Tips and Tools to Help Bar Associations Build Trust and Support Members &#8211; Part 3</title>
		<link>https://vocalmeet.com/technological-tips-and-tools-to-help-bar-associations-build-trust-and-support-members-part-3/</link>
		
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[Vocalmeet]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Mon, 14 Nov 2022 14:48:45 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[Blog]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Industry News]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Vocalmeet Industry Insights]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[association]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Best Practice]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[cloud computing]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[document retrieval]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Hub: Association Technology]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Lexum]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[organization]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[SaaS]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[technology]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[the cloud]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[vocalmeet]]></category>
		<guid isPermaLink="false">https://vocalmeet.com/?p=9279</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[<p>Continuing our series of articles in partnership with Lexum, this week we’ll be looking into the nebulous world of cloud computing. You may have heard the term tossed around, but how does it apply to bar associations? Read on to find out! Tool: the Cloud You may have heard of “cloud computing” (or just, “the [&#8230;]</p>
<p>The post <a rel="nofollow" href="https://vocalmeet.com/technological-tips-and-tools-to-help-bar-associations-build-trust-and-support-members-part-3/">Technology Tips and Tools to Help Bar Associations Build Trust and Support Members &#8211; Part 3</a> appeared first on <a rel="nofollow" href="https://vocalmeet.com">Online Learning Solutions | Association Management System | Vocalmeet</a>.</p>
]]></description>
										<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Continuing our <a href="https://vocalmeet.com/technological-tips-and-tools-to-help-bar-associations-build-trust-and-support-members-part-1/">series</a> of articles in partnership with <a href="https://lexum.com/">Lexum</a>, this week we’ll be looking into the nebulous world of cloud computing. You may have heard the term tossed around, but how does it apply to bar associations? Read on to find out!</p>
<h2><strong>Tool: the Cloud </strong></h2>
<p>You may have heard of “cloud computing” (or just, “the cloud”) before, but what is it? It refers to information and processing power that is housed online, rather than on-site. You aren’t pulling files from your own computer’s memory but directly from online storage. This type of computing provides fast, on-demand service that anyone with access to the internet can take advantage of.</p>
<h3><strong>SaaS</strong></h3>
<p><a href="https://vocalmeet.com/saas-vs-custom-lms/">Software as a Service (or SaaS) is a type of software that lives directly in the cloud</a>, meaning it’s easy to access on any device. <a href="https://vocalmeet.com/">Many platforms run on SaaS</a> because you can use them directly on their respective websites–no extra programs or downloads necessary! With their convenience and easy integration capability, SaaS platforms are a great solution when it comes to different types of association systems (be they association, member, learning management, or more).</p>
<h3><strong>Document Retrieval and the Cloud</strong></h3>
<p>“The cloud” isn’t just for hosting platforms–it can help you store association documents! This not only makes things super accessible, but it can allow your organization to improve its consistency and formatting.</p>
<p>Imagine: all of your document templates in one place, easy to download to your device and modify whenever you want. Member application forms, event submission forms, testimonial submissions, surveys–the sky’s the limit! You can streamline a number of administrative tasks this way, and improve your association’s overall data organization while you’re at it.</p>
<p><a href="https://lexum.com/en/products/qweri/">Solutions that support members in retrieving legal documentation and collaborating online</a> also exist to help your bar association out. Not only this–some of them don’t even require changing the way you operate and produce your documents! Whether you&#8217;re using your desktop, tablet, or phone, you can search and load reference material quickly and easily, as well as make and share notes with clients and colleagues–a must in any data-driven industry (like the legal sector!).</p>
<p><strong>You may also like:</strong> <a href="https://vocalmeet.com/sometimes-more-is-better/">Making Your Content More Accessible Does Not Mean Introducing More Complicated Technology</a></p>
<h2><strong>Conclusion</strong></h2>
<p>While the term “cloud computing” can sound daunting, don’t let it inject fear into the heart of your bar association; leverage the right cloud technology, and you’ll discover a world of increased ease and efficiency!</p>
<p>Tune in (or<em> click on</em>) next week for our <a href="https://vocalmeet.com/technology-tips-and-tools-to-help-bar-associations-build-trust-and-support-members-part-4/">article all about web safety</a>!</p>
<p>The post <a rel="nofollow" href="https://vocalmeet.com/technological-tips-and-tools-to-help-bar-associations-build-trust-and-support-members-part-3/">Technology Tips and Tools to Help Bar Associations Build Trust and Support Members &#8211; Part 3</a> appeared first on <a rel="nofollow" href="https://vocalmeet.com">Online Learning Solutions | Association Management System | Vocalmeet</a>.</p>
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		<title>Technology Tips and Tools to Help Bar Associations Build Trust and Support Members &#8211; Part 2</title>
		<link>https://vocalmeet.com/technological-tips-and-tools-to-help-bar-associations-build-trust-and-support-members-part-2/</link>
		
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[Vocalmeet]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Mon, 07 Nov 2022 18:40:30 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[Blog]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Industry News]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Vocalmeet Industry Insights]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[association]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[bar association]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Best Practice]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[CLE]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[e-learning]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Hub: Association Technology]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[innovation]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Lexum]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[online learning]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[organization]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[technology]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[virtualize]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[vocalmeet]]></category>
		<guid isPermaLink="false">https://vocalmeet.com/?p=9276</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[<p>If you’re looking for tips and tools to help your bar association make the most of the internet, you’re in luck! Vocalmeet and Lexum’s new series has got you covered. Last week, we looked at how to improve your association’s website; this week, we’ll be delving into one of the most crucial components of the [&#8230;]</p>
<p>The post <a rel="nofollow" href="https://vocalmeet.com/technological-tips-and-tools-to-help-bar-associations-build-trust-and-support-members-part-2/">Technology Tips and Tools to Help Bar Associations Build Trust and Support Members &#8211; Part 2</a> appeared first on <a rel="nofollow" href="https://vocalmeet.com">Online Learning Solutions | Association Management System | Vocalmeet</a>.</p>
]]></description>
										<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>If you’re looking for tips and tools to help your bar association make the most of the internet, you’re in luck! <a href="http://vocalmeet.com/">Vocalmeet</a> and <a href="https://lexum.com/">Lexum</a>’s new series has got you covered. Last week, we looked at <a href="https://vocalmeet.com/technological-tips-and-tools-to-help-bar-associations-build-trust-and-support-members-part-1/">how to improve your association’s website</a>; this week, we’ll be delving into one of the most crucial components of the legal field: research!</p>
<h2><strong>Tip: Enhance Your Research</strong></h2>
<p>The ability to research effectively is a crucial skill in many jobs–especially when in connection with the law: for bar associations and their members alike, fast, accurate legal research capability is essential. Because of this, it’s important to properly organize your association content and boost its accessibility by making it as easy as possible to find; this is particularly important if your association is promoting CLE training and publications. Thankfully, there are a few proven approaches to do exactly that!</p>
<h3><strong>Leverage Document Software Designed Specifically for Legal Research</strong></h3>
<p>When providing access to legal material, bar associations should use <a href="https://lexum.com/en/products/qweri/">a solution that facilitates searching, highlighting, and annotating legal documents</a>. It’s important to pick one that’s user-friendly and intuitive, as well as one that fully integrates with your website and <a href="https://vocalmeet.com/learning-management-systems-for-associations-an-overview/">your learning management platform</a>. You want something that’s a pleasure to use and that allows seamless navigation with the rest of your web environment. For this reason, white-label integration is a <em>must</em>!</p>
<p>And, because you’ll likely be using it frequently, you’ll want one that loads quickly. Focus on SaaS applications (we’ll get to that in the next post!) so you can access content directly on your browser; no external programs means you don’t need to worry about access points (or about carrying around your work PC!). Not only that–web-based solutions are also more likely to incorporate the latest innovations for saving bandwidth and loading time, such as dynamic caches, lazy-loading, and infinite scrolling.</p>
<h3><strong>Provide Advanced Search Capabilities</strong></h3>
<p>Any modern legal research solution should allow users to combine full-text search in the body of your documents with search-by fields (such as date, author, field of law, etc.). At the minimum, your search engine should support Boolean operators, including:</p>
<ul>
<li><strong>AND</strong>: Adding “AND” means all linked words must be included.
<ul>
<li>For instance, searching <strong>pink AND blue AND green</strong> will only give you results that include all three colors; this limits your results.</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li><strong>OR</strong>: Using “OR” means one or the other–not both.
<ul>
<li>For instance, searching <strong>pink OR blue OR green</strong> will give you results that give you only pink, only blue, or only green–but not a combination of any of them; this gives you a larger pool of more specific results.</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li><strong>NOT</strong>: Searching “NOT” filters out results that contain the word.
<ul>
<li>For instance, searching <strong>pink NOT blue NOT green</strong> will only give you results for pink, removing anything that mentions blue and/or green; this considerably fine-tunes your results.</li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>
<p>Ideally, however, your research solution should also enable users to complete proximity searches; for instance, it should allow for searching within sentences (/s) or paragraphs (/p). Wildcard operators (*) are also highly appreciated by legal researchers, as they allow truncated words and look for all derivatives of a keyword from a single query. For instance, if one were to search “injunct*” to get documents, the solution would also match either “injunction” or “injunctive”. The best legal search solutions provide stemming capability by default, weighing in the possible derivatives (including singular and plural forms!) in their lists of results automatically. Now, that’s helpful!</p>
<p>You’ll probably agree that a common annoyance when browsing the Web is getting a long list of search results without any context about why you’ve received these results in the first place. To guarantee your members reach the pages and documents you invested your efforts in, make sure your search results page guides them in the right direction.</p>
<p>Employing the use of short snippets that are automatically generated from the body of your content and include keywords in context (in <strong>bold</strong>) are a must. Various ranking mechanisms (by relevance, but also by date, by popularity, etc) can also aid members in their searches. In addition, your members will greatly appreciate the ability to refine their searches <em>directly from the results page</em> (instead of clicking back and forth between distinct search and results pages)!</p>
<p>Finally, when your members reach their destination on the page or document you’ve produced, why not help them navigate it <em>even faster</em> with<strong> keyword highlights</strong>? This is particularly relevant for larger publications, in which the significant content may be hidden deep within the document.</p>
<p>Curious to see how all of this advice can be combined in practice? <a href="https://lexum.com/en/blog/the-state-bar-of-wisconsin-modernizes-books-unbound-with-qweri/">Here’s how the State Bar of Wisconsin has done it for its Books Unbound service</a>!</p>
<p><strong>You may also like:</strong> <a href="https://vocalmeet.com/academic-vs-association-lms-4-key-differences/">Academic vs Association LMS: 4 Key Differences</a></p>
<h2><strong>Conclusion</strong></h2>
<p>Research improvements can’t be overlooked when it comes to boosting value for bar associations. With the right tools and savvy, you’ll be able to offer your members an unparalleled search experience!</p>
<p>Next week: <a href="https://vocalmeet.com/technological-tips-and-tools-to-help-bar-associations-build-trust-and-support-members-part-3/">the Cloud</a>!</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>The post <a rel="nofollow" href="https://vocalmeet.com/technological-tips-and-tools-to-help-bar-associations-build-trust-and-support-members-part-2/">Technology Tips and Tools to Help Bar Associations Build Trust and Support Members &#8211; Part 2</a> appeared first on <a rel="nofollow" href="https://vocalmeet.com">Online Learning Solutions | Association Management System | Vocalmeet</a>.</p>
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		<title>Technology Tips and Tools to Help Bar Associations Build Trust and Support Members &#8211; Part 1</title>
		<link>https://vocalmeet.com/technological-tips-and-tools-to-help-bar-associations-build-trust-and-support-members-part-1/</link>
					<comments>https://vocalmeet.com/technological-tips-and-tools-to-help-bar-associations-build-trust-and-support-members-part-1/#comments</comments>
		
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[Vocalmeet]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Mon, 24 Oct 2022 15:01:36 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[Blog]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Industry News]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Vocalmeet Industry Insights]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[association]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[bar association]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Best Practice]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[CLE]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[continuing education]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Continuing Legal Education]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Hub: Association Technology]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[innovation]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[integration]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Lexum]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[membership engagement]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[technology]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[vocalmeet]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[web design]]></category>
		<guid isPermaLink="false">https://vocalmeet.com/?p=9262</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[<p>When it comes to maximizing your bar association’s potential, are you taking advantage of all technology has to offer? It may be tempting to stay in your organization’s comfort zone, but you could be missing out on key ways to build connections and engage your members. Thankfully, we’re here to help! This series of posts [&#8230;]</p>
<p>The post <a rel="nofollow" href="https://vocalmeet.com/technological-tips-and-tools-to-help-bar-associations-build-trust-and-support-members-part-1/">Technology Tips and Tools to Help Bar Associations Build Trust and Support Members &#8211; Part 1</a> appeared first on <a rel="nofollow" href="https://vocalmeet.com">Online Learning Solutions | Association Management System | Vocalmeet</a>.</p>
]]></description>
										<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>When it comes to maximizing your bar association’s potential, are you taking advantage of all technology has to offer? It may be tempting to stay in your organization’s comfort zone, but you could be missing out on key ways to build connections and engage your members.</p>
<p>Thankfully, we’re here to help! This series of posts produced in collaboration between <a href="http://vocalmeet.com/">Vocalmeet</a> and <a href="https://lexum.com/">Lexum</a> will cover our top tips and tools to help your bar association make the most of what the internet has to offer:</p>
<h2><strong><em>Tool</em>: Your Website</strong></h2>
<p>It may feel like a cop-out to start with what’s arguably the most obvious tool in your association’s belt–its website–but <a href="https://vocalmeet.com/why-legal-associations-should-care-about-their-website/">it’s a crucial factor that can be easily overlooked</a>.</p>
<h3><strong>Build a Solid Base</strong></h3>
<p>Regardless of what you’re making, it needs to have a solid base. The same is true for your association’s website: <a href="https://vocalmeet.com/do-i-have-your-attention-keeping-members-on-your-associations-website/">if your site isn’t visually attractive and user-friendly</a>, you’re already losing out on potential members.</p>
<p>First, make sure your website is modern: if it looks like it was built before Y2K, you’re not going to find much success. It’s hard not to judge a book by its cover when you’re browsing the net, so if you want to keep your audience on your page, make sure your site’s design is snappy, clear, and interesting.</p>
<p>Pay attention to both the user interface (how your website is laid out) and the user experience (how it feels to use your website); if either of these is lacking, you’re going to frustrate your members. Frustrated members are more likely to wander, so be sure to make the process of using your site painless for everyone involved.</p>
<p>A good way to achieve this is through <em>integration</em>. If all of your website’s sections–whether that means your store, forums, continuing legal education, blog, or more–are properly integrated, your users will be able to navigate your site with ease. Additionally, integration means a more seamless experience with more consistent branding. If all your pages match, members are less likely to get confused. In this line of thought, make sure to pick white-label solutions (in this case, software that can be purchased and rebranded to match your association) when relying on third-party vendors to power some of these sections.</p>
<p>You’ll also want to beef up your site’s search functionality. This is especially important when it comes to your continuing legal education courses or publications, of course (members can’t purchase material they can’t find!) but it also applies to your site as a whole. Allow for an array of filtering options; you could include sections for keywords, categories, fields of law, popular posts/courses/books, speaker/poster, profiles, pages, and more! (<em>Look out for part 2 in this series, where we’ll go into more detail on this topic</em>.)</p>
<p>If your bar association is <a href="https://world.einnews.com/pr_news/586719027/vocalmeet-and-lexum-the-perfect-partnership-for-legal-associations">partnered with other quality organizations</a>, consider adding a section presenting them and their logo. For instance, if you run a county bar association that belongs to a larger collective (for instance, a state bar association), you can indicate this with their brand image. This will show your members you belong to a larger network of credible organizations–promoting your peers and proving your reliability in a single step! (Just make sure you get permission first.)</p>
<h3><strong>Captivate Members</strong></h3>
<p>Catching the attention of members may sound difficult, but there are a number of ways you can accomplish it.</p>
<p>First, you’ll want to put context-specific member testimonials at the front and center of your page (or somewhere else easily accessible!). For instance, on a page dedicated to a practice guide, try to include some feedback from practitioners heavily relying on it. After all, who better to promote your products and services than the members who use them? If you don’t have a stock of reviews available, don’t worry; you can offer CE program discounts or vouchers to those who submit them! Soon, you’ll have plenty of quality member quotes to use.</p>
<p><a href="https://vocalmeet.com/continuing-education-inside-and-out/">Your association should also establish a <em>knowledge hub</em> section on its site</a>. This can encompass a variety of formats–videos, blog articles, <em>Ask Me Anything</em> sessions (whether they take the form of livestreams, recorded live sessions, or forum threads), news updates, anything! If you find it useful or interesting, your members likely will, too. By establishing a broad, frequently updated body of resources, your members will be more inclined to keep coming back for more.</p>
<p>Finally, you can appeal to the kid in all of us: achievement badges! By offering digital badges (also known as <em>eBadges</em>) for accomplishments like completing programs or course tracks, you get to reward loyal members with a virtual sticker. Members can then display their badges on their profiles or on social media–showing off their accolades and promoting your association at the same time! Everyone likes to be validated for their hard work, and you’ll be scratching that “collector’s itch” for some of your audience.</p>
<p><strong>You may also like:</strong> <a href="https://vocalmeet.com/3-strategies-to-boost-member-engagement-online/">Let’s Get Digital: 3 Strategies to Boost Member Engagement Online</a></p>
<h2>Conclusion</h2>
<p>When you’re looking to boost engagement, you can’t go wrong with a sleek, appealing website. Make it intuitive, make it fun, and make it smart–your members will appreciate it!</p>
<p>Looking for more tips and tools? Have no fear, this article is just the start! Check in next week for our <a href="https://vocalmeet.com/technological-tips-and-tools-to-help-bar-associations-build-trust-and-support-members-part-2/">tips to enhance your research ability</a>.</p>
<p>The post <a rel="nofollow" href="https://vocalmeet.com/technological-tips-and-tools-to-help-bar-associations-build-trust-and-support-members-part-1/">Technology Tips and Tools to Help Bar Associations Build Trust and Support Members &#8211; Part 1</a> appeared first on <a rel="nofollow" href="https://vocalmeet.com">Online Learning Solutions | Association Management System | Vocalmeet</a>.</p>
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