Solutions Day brought together some of the brightest minds in associations, technology, and innovation. This year’s event was a deep dive into the transformative power of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and how it is reshaping the association landscape.

From cutting-edge AI applications to member-focused strategies, the event was packed with insights on how associations can stay ahead in an increasingly digital world. If you couldn’t join us this year, here’s a recap of the key moments and lessons from Solutions Day 2024.

Key Themes:

  1. AI Integration: AI was front and center this year, with sessions covering everything from chatbots to predictive analytics and how these tools can be harnessed to improve member services and operational efficiency.
  2. Automation: Many experts shared how automation is freeing up resources, allowing teams to focus on high-impact projects while letting technology handle repetitive tasks.
  3. Data-Driven Decision Making: Utilizing data for strategic decisions was a recurring theme. Sessions demonstrated how associations are turning data into actionable insights.
  4. Digital Transformation: The event emphasized the need for associations to embrace digital strategies, ensuring they remain competitive in this rapidly evolving landscape.
  5. Member-Centric Approaches: Personalizing the member experience was highlighted as crucial to engagement and long-term success.

Keynote: The Power of Simplicity

Stephanie Hendrick set the tone for the day with her keynote, “Vanilla is Iconic: Turning the Ordinary into Extraordinary.” Stephanie’s message was clear: rather than overcomplicating strategies, associations should focus on:

  • Mastering the fundamentals,
  • Staying true to their core values,
  • And refining existing strengths to produce extraordinary results.

Her emphasis on simplicity as a driver of innovation resonated with attendees, encouraging them to return to basics and excel.

AI and Automation in Action

Several sessions delved into practical applications of AI and automation, showcasing real-world examples of how associations are using these tools to their advantage:

  • Jason Vance and Lauren Janik, Marketing Leads, from Impexium explained how they are using automation to create personalized member journeys throughout the entire member lifecycle. They were joined by Danielle Thomas Pollard (DTP), PMP, from the Auto Care Association who demonstrated how automation has streamlined their operations, eliminating manual tasks to focus on high-impact initiatives.
  • Jason Wampler, CAE, Managing Director of Information Technology from the International Society of Automation showcased their AI chatbot, MIMO, which improved member support in multiple languages and identified knowledge gaps in their offerings.
  • James Jankovec, Director of IT at the American Orthopaedic Society for Sports Medicine and Collier Faubion, Senior Sales Engineer, from Nimble AMS showed how AI-powered predictive analytics helped the AOSSM forecast membership trends and prevent lapses.
  • Kelli Windsor, Senior Director, Digital Communications, FMI – The Food Industry Association and Ray Stankiewicz, Director of Client Solutions, of Matrix Group shared how AI-powered translation tools are enabling the FMI to efficiently scale their services globally.

Data-Driven Strategies

Data continued to be a major focus throughout the day, with multiple speakers showcasing how associations can harness the power of their data:

  • Jessica Vazquez, Membership Manager, American Nuclear Society and Rachel Mace, CAE Director – Customer Experience, from Association Analytics demonstrated how combining data from different platforms provides a clearer picture for strategic decision-making.
  • Laura Graham, Sr. Solutions Consultant, Results Direct and Jess Burke, CAE, Director of Marketing & Communications, from the International Society for Heart & Lung Transplantation shared ISHLT’s website redesign journey, highlighting the importance of a member-centric, data-driven approach to creating personalized content and optimizing the user experience.

Practical AI Implementation

A panel discussion led by Kevin Ordonez, President & Managing Director, Digital Strategy, .orgSource, explored the practical aspects of AI integration:

  • Real-world applications in associations,
  • How AI is transforming operations,
  • Best practices for AI implementation,
  • Overcoming challenges like data privacy and staff buy-in.

Panelists shared strategies on how to build a framework for AI adoption that benefits both the organization and its members.

Personalization and Content Strategies

Theodore Davis, Director of Digital Experience & Strategy from the National Association of Corporate Directors and Jake Toohey, Director of Association Practice from Adage Technologies presented a tiered approach to personalization, breaking it down into:

  • Crawl: Simple, data-driven personalization tactics,
  • Walk: More advanced, tailored experiences,
  • Run: Fully integrated, dynamic personalization strategies.

They also discussed a tiered content approach that maximizes engagement across diverse member segments, resulting in new revenue streams and enhanced member satisfaction.

Success Stories: AI in Action

The event concluded with inspiring success stories that showcased AI’s potential in action:

  • Tatyana Kelmanson, Program & Product Manager, American College of Cardiology and Michael Kumpf, Director of Enterprise Sales from YM Careers shared how the ACC revitalized their career center using AI, resulting in a 47% increase in engagement and a 15% rise in non-dues revenue.
  • Kelli Windsor and Ray Stankiewicz highlighted how the Food Industry Association used AI translation tools to expand globally, saving time and costs while maintaining high-quality services.

Looking Ahead: Future of AI and Digital Transformation

To wrap up the day, Sherry Budziak, Founder & CEO, .orgSource, encouraged associations to continue embracing digital transformation. She emphasized that while many associations recognize the importance of a digital strategy, few have formal plans in place. Sherry urged organizations to focus on:

  • Developing comprehensive digital roadmaps,
  • Fostering a culture of innovation,
  • Prioritizing data-driven decision-making for future success.

Read more about .orgSource’s AI Consulting services to embrace digital transformation at your organization.

Key Takeaways from Solutions Day 2024:

  1. AI and automation are no longer just buzzwords; they are crucial tools for driving association success in the digital age.
  2. Personalization is essential for member engagement and long-term growth.
  3. Data-driven decision-making empowers associations to remain agile and competitive.
  4. A culture of innovation is as important as the technology itself. Associations must continuously evolve and adapt to stay ahead.
  •  Action Steps for Associations
  • Assess Your Digital Readiness: Conduct a thorough evaluation of your current digital capabilities and needs.
  • Develop a Comprehensive Digital Strategy: Create a roadmap that aligns technology adoption with your association’s goals
  • Prioritize Data Management: Invest in systems that allow for effective data collection, analysis, and application
  • Explore AI and Automation Tools: Identify areas where AI can enhance member services and operational efficiency
  • Foster an Innovation Culture: Encourage continuous learning and adaptability among staff
  • Focus on Personalization: Implement strategies to create tailored experiences for members
  • Collaborate and Learn: Consider joining communities like .orgCommunity for peer learning and resources

Solutions Day was more than a conference—it was a glimpse into the future of association management. As technology continues to evolve, associations that embrace innovation, prioritize member needs, and adapt to changing landscapes will thrive. By embracing AI, automation, and data-driven strategies, associations can create extraordinary value from ordinary resources, ensuring their relevance and impact in an increasingly digital world.

If you missed out, you can catch up on the event highlights and explore the sessions that resonate most with your organization’s future. All the content will be available on-demand, so be sure to follow us on YouTube to be notified when it becomes available.

For assistance in navigating your digital transformation journey, contact Sherry at info@orgsource.com.

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