Blog Articles

Making the decision to seek a new Managed Service Provider (MSP) is rarely easy. For many organizations, the thought alone can stir a sense of unease—after all, technology forms the backbone of daily operations, and switching providers feels akin to performing open-heart surgery on a system that must continue beating without pause. The risks of disruption, the fear of choosing poorly, and the overwhelming volume of decisions that need to be made can leave even the most seasoned executives feeling anxious. Yet, when approached thoughtfully and methodically, the process can become not only manageable but empowering, setting the stage for a stronger, more capable IT environment. This article explores best practices, structured approaches, and key activities that can help make the MSP selection process smoother and more strategic, while also addressing the risks involved and ways to mitigate them.

Economic downturns and turbulent political landscapes create ripple effects that touch every corner of society — and professional associations and societies are no exception. As uncertainty rises, individuals and organizations alike tighten their budgets, often relegating memberships, subscriptions, and event attendance to the list of expendable expenses. Associations, caught in this wave, must quickly adjust strategies to continue delivering value to their communities while managing internal challenges. During these critical periods, leadership becomes even more essential. However, recruiting, onboarding, and maintaining full-time executives is expensive and time-consuming — luxuries associations often cannot afford in challenging times. That’s where fractional leadership steps in. By engaging fractional Chief Information Officers (CIOs), Chief Operating Officers (COOs), and Chief Executive Officers (CEOs), associations can gain the expertise they need to steer through adversity without the burden of a full-time commitment. This approach offers an agile, cost-effective, and high-impact solution to an increasingly complex problem.

In today’s fast-paced world, technology is advancing at an unprecedented rate, affecting every industry imaginable. From healthcare to finance, manufacturing to education, every sector is finding ways to leverage the latest technological innovations. Yet, in the membership association and professional society sector, there has long been a trend of hesitation when it comes to embracing new technology. This delay in adopting modern tools often leads to continued inefficiencies in the management of organizations and their processes. However, with the rapid emergence of Artificial Intelligence (AI), many organizations within this space are beginning to recognize the potential value of embracing these technologies, even in their most basic forms. AI offers a variety of benefits that can significantly enhance the operational efficiency and member experience of associations and societies.

Every organization aspires to operate seamlessly, reducing inefficiencies while maximizing output. Yet, achieving consistency and continuous improvement in operations is an ongoing challenge. Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) serve as the backbone of well-functioning organizations, providing the structure necessary for process optimization. More than just rigid documents, SOPs are living guides that adapt alongside the business, ensuring that workflows remain streamlined, employees stay engaged, and technology is leveraged effectively. Process improvement is not a one-time initiative; it is an ongoing cycle of assessing, refining, and enhancing operations to drive better results. Within this cycle, SOPs play a pivotal role. They create a standardized foundation that allows organizations to measure performance, identify inefficiencies, and implement necessary changes without disrupting business continuity. Their impact extends beyond documentation—SOPs act as a bridge between strategy and execution, ensuring that every team member understands not just what to do, but why it matters. As industries become increasingly competitive and technology accelerates the pace of change, organizations that fail to establish and continuously refine their SOPs risk falling behind. More than ever, SOPs are a critical component of digital transformation, equipping businesses with the ability to evolve while maintaining operational excellence.

Leadership is often associated with authority, decisiveness, and the ability to inspire others. While these qualities are important, one fundamental trait separates exceptional leaders from the rest—the ability to collaborate. True leadership is not about standing above others; it is about working alongside them, fostering an environment where people feel valued, empowered, and united in a shared purpose. Collaboration is the heartbeat of strong leadership, weaving together communication, mutual respect, shared vision, empathy, and adaptability. When leaders embrace a collaborative mindset, they create an atmosphere of trust and innovation, where problems are solved more effectively, creativity flourishes, and teams function at their highest potential. Developing this quality requires conscious effort—opening channels of communication, cultivating trust, defining shared goals, encouraging teamwork, and recognizing contributions. When leaders master collaboration, they transform not only their teams but also the trajectory of their organizations.

Change is one of the most difficult yet inevitable aspects of organizational life. Companies evolve, industries shift, and new technologies emerge, requiring organizations to adapt or risk obsolescence. However, change is rarely easy. Employees often resist it, stakeholders may be skeptical, and the transition can feel overwhelming. This is where leadership plays a critical role. Leaders must guide their organizations through change, ensuring that the process is structured, the value is communicated, and the benefits extend beyond the organization itself to the employees and stakeholders.

Without strong leadership support, change initiatives often falter. Employees may feel uncertain about their roles, productivity can decline, and an organization may struggle to meet its strategic objectives. On the other hand, when leaders actively support change, they help foster a culture of adaptability, resilience, and innovation. This article explores the key steps that leadership should take to support positive change, the impact of their support, and the challenges that arise when leadership fails to guide the process effectively.

In today’s complex digital landscape, IT governance plays a critical role in ensuring that technology investments align with business objectives. One often overlooked yet essential aspect of IT governance is the regular review of software and solution licensing, particularly for long-term and annually recurring renewals such as Microsoft licensing. This process is not merely a financial exercise but a strategic initiative that impacts cost management, operational efficiency, long-term IT success, and the organization’s overall ability to innovate. By conducting systematic reviews of software licenses, IT leaders can optimize expenditures, ensure compliance, and support the organization’s evolving needs. These reviews allow organizations to identify inefficiencies, adjust licensing models to current usage patterns, and avoid unnecessary renewals that drain budgets. Furthermore, effective license management supports IT leaders in making data-driven decisions, fostering financial accountability, and improving resource allocation.

In the uncharted terrain of corporate strategy and leadership, the quest for growth often compels executives to paint rosy pictures, highlighting lofty aspirations for their teams. It is not uncommon for leaders to set high benchmarks and deadlines, hoping that the pressure and the challenge will ignite a drive in the team to reach new heights. However, this approach may not always yield the anticipated results. Contrary to the common belief that stretching boundaries foster growth, there is growing evidence to suggest that leaders setting unrealistic expectations can lead to not only failure in meeting those expectations but also a host of other unwelcome consequences. Such a leadership style can undermine team morale, erode trust in leadership, and even result in long-term damage to the organization's performance. This article delves into the reasons why unrealistic expectations from leaders cannot lead to realistic outcomes and provides insights into more effective leadership strategies.

Technology has become an integral part of our lives, shaping the way we work, communicate, and even think. Whether you’re an individual looking for the perfect productivity tool or an organization seeking to implement a transformative solution, the process of selecting the right technology is both an art and a science. Done right, it can lead to innovation, efficiency, and growth. Done wrong, it can result in frustration, wasted resources, and missed opportunities. But how do you ensure you’re making the best choice? The answer lies in a thoughtful and strategic approach to evaluating your options. This article explores the best practices for selecting the right technology, focusing on the importance of understanding needs, evaluating compatibility, and fostering a love for the tools that empower us.

Organizations have long relied on performance metrics to gauge their progress toward specific goals. Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) in particular have served as the backbone for many performance management systems, offering clear quantitative insights into ongoing operations. However, focusing solely on KPIs can create a narrow view, emphasizing short-term results at the expense of long-term vision. This is where Objectives and Key Results (OKRs) enter the picture. OKRs add a strategic dimension to performance measurement by identifying aspirational goals and the specific milestones needed to achieve them. Understanding how KPIs and OKRs differ, how they are used, and why both are essential can guide organizations toward a more comprehensive and forward-thinking performance management strategy.

The sun has rose over this crisp January morning, and I sit at my desk looking out my window breathing in the promise of a new year. It is the first day of 2025, and though the world feels quietly serene, there was a sense of anticipation in the air, a mutual hope that with the turn of the calendar, we could all step forward into a future filled with safety, health, and prosperity. It is not just a wish but a shared aspiration, one that binds us as we greet each other with warm wishes: “Happy New Year!”

When organizations embark on the journey to adopt new technology solutions—be it an enterprise resource planning (ERP) system, a customer relationship management (CRM) platform, or another enterprise-wide tool—there is often a surge of excitement at the start. Individuals across teams look forward to the possibilities: streamlined processes, enhanced data insights, and an overall improvement in how day-to-day work is handled. This enthusiasm frequently emerges during the early stages of discovery and selection, as stakeholders imagine how the chosen solution will positively influence their performance. However, as the project moves beyond the initial phase and into the implementation stage, that anticipation too often diminishes. The reason is rarely due to the software itself, but rather to an innate resistance to altering established workflows and methods of completing tasks. The very change that new technology demands becomes a stumbling block, and rather than taking advantage of the opportunity to improve efficiency, organizations revert to old habits. In doing so, they sabotage the full potential that these solutions offer and risk draining the value of the investment they have made. This article explores why resistance to change can derail technology implementations, how the resulting missed opportunities undermine efficiency, and what steps organizations can take to ensure they make the most of their new systems. In essence, it is a call to embrace the very changes that new technology solutions represent, and to recognize that adapting workflows is not a failure but a step toward excellence and competitive advantage.

Last week, I had the opportunity to attend the Association Forum Holiday Showcase, a highly regarded event that brings professionals together from a multitude of industries, roles, and backgrounds. This yearly gathering, while festive and celebratory, also serves as a fertile ground for meaningful connections, knowledge-sharing, and personal growth. As I navigated the bustling booths and mingled with both familiar and new faces, I was reminded yet again that networking is far more than just collecting business cards. Instead, it is an essential facet of career growth, a catalyst for unlocking new opportunities, and a powerful method of staying relevant and engaged in an ever-evolving professional landscape.

In the rapidly evolving landscape of today's business world, effective leadership has become more critical than ever. Leaders are no longer just figureheads; they are the driving force that propels organizations toward success amidst constant change and uncertainty. The challenges of globalization, technological advancements, and shifting workforce dynamics demand leaders who are not only strategic thinkers but also empathetic communicators. To navigate these complexities, today's leaders must focus on building strong relationships with their teams, fostering adaptability and agility, promoting innovation and creativity, and prioritizing employee well-being and motivation. These key attributes are essential for any leader aiming to drive their organization to new heights in this competitive era.

As we navigate through 2024 and into 2025, artificial intelligence (AI) continues to be a transformative force in the business world. Building upon rapid advancements from previous years, organizations are increasingly leveraging AI to enhance operations, drive innovation, and gain a competitive edge. However, this surge in AI adoption brings both opportunities and challenges. This article delves into what has come of the AI movement in business, explores its future trajectory, examines how it aids and impedes organizations, assesses the benefits and risks, and evaluates whether businesses are truly capitalizing on this technological revolution.

Influence is at the heart of effective leadership. Beyond simply directing tasks or overseeing projects, truly successful leaders inspire growth, shape attitudes, and create pathways for development within their teams—and often beyond. This influence extends to multiple levels within an organization, impacting not only immediate team members but also other departments, leaders, and the organization's overall culture. By nurturing an environment of support, collaboration, and strategic vision, leaders enable both personal and professional growth, fostering an interconnected, adaptable workplace that thrives on change rather than resisting it. In this article, we’ll explore key approaches successful leaders use to influence team growth and organizational change and examine how these practices impact the broader organization.

In today's rapidly evolving technological landscape, organizations are continually seeking new software solutions to enhance efficiency, competitiveness, and customer satisfaction. However, the mere adoption of new technology does not guarantee success. A critical factor that often determines the outcome of such initiatives is change management. When organizations fail to embrace change, they risk undermining the potential benefits of the new software, leading to inefficiencies and even project failure. This article explores the importance of change management, the risks associated with neglecting it, the value it brings when properly embraced, and the pivotal role of leadership in fostering acceptance throughout the organization.

For decades, associations and professional societies have leaned heavily on Association Management Systems (AMS) to manage their core functions—membership tracking, event coordination, and educational programming through live events. These systems have been the backbone of organizational operations, ensuring that day-to-day activities run smoothly. However, as the landscape of these organizations has significantly transformed over time, traditional AMS solutions have struggled to keep pace with the evolving needs. In response, a new wave of AMS providers is pivoting towards more flexible, platform-based solutions like Salesforce, Microsoft Dynamics, and Oracle's NetSuite. This shift not only offers enhanced capabilities and configuration but also presents a more affordable and integrative approach for organizations. Additionally, the engagement of third-party consulting firms has emerged as a strategic move to streamline the selection and implementation of these advanced systems.

In today's rapidly evolving digital landscape, technology has transcended its traditional support role to become a central driver of business strategy and innovation. The Chief Information Officer (CIO), once relegated to managing IT infrastructure, now stands at the forefront of organizational transformation. As businesses grapple with the complexities of digital disruption, the inclusion of the CIO at the executive table has become imperative. This shift ensures that technology is not an afterthought but a core component of the organization's roadmap to success.

In the fast-paced world of business, the success of any project hinges not just on the brilliance of an idea but significantly on how well it is managed from inception to completion. Recently, while collaborating with a new client, I witnessed firsthand how inadequate project management can derail even the most promising initiatives. This experience underscored the critical importance of employing robust project management practices right from the start, regardless of a project's size or scope. In this article, we will explore key elements of effective project management that are essential for steering projects toward success.

The membership association industry has long been a bastion of tradition, relying on established methods for member engagement, outreach, and organizational growth. Historically slow to adopt new technologies, these associations often depended on manual processes and intuition-based strategies. However, a paradigm shift is underway. Associations are increasingly embracing data aggregation solutions that not only consolidate their data but also present it in ways that facilitate data-driven decision making. This transformation is not just enhancing operational efficiency but is also unlocking new avenues for member outreach, engagement, and value creation. This article delves into how this technological adoption is revolutionizing membership associations and propelling them toward a more prosperous future.

In today’s data-driven business environment, the ability to make informed decisions is paramount to the success and sustainability of any organization. One of the most important components of any business system is the data it generates, collects, and manages. Data, in its raw form, is a powerful resource, but its true value is only realized when it is accurate, consistent, and reliable. High-quality data serves as the foundation for effective data-driven decision-making. However, achieving and maintaining this level of data quality does not happen by chance; it requires a proactive approach and a well-structured governance framework. In this article, we will explore the key components to improving the quality of data in organizational systems and delve into the development and implementation of a robust data governance structure that ensures the integrity, security, and utility of data throughout its lifecycle.

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is now a cornerstone of technological advancement, deeply woven into the fabric of our daily lives. From personalized recommendations on streaming platforms to automated customer service solutions, AI’s influence is vast and far-reaching. However, AI was not always the tech-world sensation it is today. Before AI became the buzzword it is, its foundational concepts and applications were already at play, quietly transforming industries and setting the stage for the AI revolution we are witnessing now. This article revisits the pioneering AI technologies and innovations—such as chatbots, predictive analytics, and others—that paved the way for modern AI advancements.

As a small business consulting firm focused on providing services to membership associations and professional societies, attending the ASAE Annual Conference in Cleveland this weekend represents a tremendous opportunity. This event is not only a platform to showcase my offerings but also a crucial chance to connect with various individuals and organizations seeking support. Networking opportunities abound at such events, enabling participants to strengthen existing relationships and forge new connections. Additionally, the conference offers a unique chance to engage with other consulting organizations that, despite being competitors, can become valuable partners in scenarios where collaboration benefits clients. This article explores the value of attending industry events like the ASAE Annual Conference, outlines essential preparations, and discusses effective follow-up strategies to ensure a fruitful experience.

In an earlier article, I focused on "Trust but Verify" as an approach to information technology. However, this concept of trust but verify goes beyond the realm of technology and holds significant relevance in the broader context of leadership. In today's fast-paced business environment, trust is a cornerstone of effective leadership. Yet, an essential complement to trust is verification. The "trust but verify" principle balances the need to foster a trusting organizational culture while ensuring accountability and transparency. By delving into the necessity, application, benefits, and consequences of the "trust but verify" principle from a leadership perspective, we can appreciate its profound impact on business success.

In the era of big data, organizations are constantly seeking efficient and effective ways to store, manage, and analyze their data. The proliferation of data sources and the increasing volume of data have led to the development of various data management solutions, each with its unique characteristics, advantages, and risks. Among these, Data Warehouse, Data Lake, and Data as a Service (DaaS) are prominent options. Understanding the differences between these solutions, their respective benefits and risks, and the factors to consider when choosing the best one for your organization is crucial for maximizing data utility and ensuring informed decision-making.

The landscape of technology leadership has undergone significant transformation in the past few decades. One of the most innovative approaches to emerge from this evolution is the concept of the "fractional CIO." This role has garnered attention in both the corporate and IT worlds for its flexible and adaptive nature. But what exactly is a fractional CIO? And when does it make sense for a company to consider such a position over a full-time CIO? In this article, we'll explore these questions and delve into the benefits and risks associated with this intriguing role.

In the realm of associations and professional society organizations, effective communication with members is not just a routine administrative task, it is a critical strategic asset. These organizations thrive on a vibrant exchange of ideas, opportunities, and feedback between the governing bodies and their members. The ability to communicate effectively can significantly influence member engagement, satisfaction, and retention. This article delves into the essentials of optimizing communication within associations by addressing the importance of meaningful interactions, establishing the right communication frequency, utilizing the appropriate tools, and safeguarding member information.

Attending networking events and conferences is a crucial aspect of professional life, offering opportunities to connect with industry peers, learn about the latest trends, and promote one's business. However, one often overlooked but essential element of maximizing these opportunities is dressing for success. The way we present ourselves can significantly influence how we are perceived and can either open doors or create barriers in professional settings. This article delves into the importance of dressing for success, the reasons behind it, and the potential impact of not doing so.

In the digital age, the success of an organization is intricately tied to its IT strategies. From budget allocations to technology solutions, the way an organization manages its IT resources can significantly impact its overall performance. However, aligning IT strategies with organizational goals is not a task that should be left solely to the IT department. Executive leadership must play a pivotal role in IT governance to ensure that all aspects of IT—budget, personnel, technology solutions, and compliance—are in harmony with the organization's strategic objectives. This article explores the critical importance of executive leadership in IT governance, highlighting the value they bring and the risks associated with their lack of involvement.

In today's fast-paced business environment, making well-informed decisions is critical for maintaining a competitive edge. Business Intelligence (BI) has emerged as a vital tool for organizations seeking to harness the power of their data to drive strategic initiatives. However, the effectiveness of BI hinges not only on having sophisticated tools but also on the quality of the data being analyzed. Good data is the cornerstone of reliable BI reporting, while bad data can lead to detrimental outcomes, including misguided decisions and wasted resources. This article explores the importance of good data, its value in effective BI reporting, and the risks associated with bad data.