This is part two of an ongoing series entitled “Tech Tips.” We’ll be sharing valuable tips and information about the importance and benefits of technology, as well as what to look for when selecting a vendor. The first post can be found here.

One of the greatest things about using an Association Management System (AMS) is the built-in support system. Most vendors offer training webinars, videos, documentation and even on-site visits to help you become more familiar with their technology. Your organization’s staff  should make it a priority to be as knowledgeable about your chosen Web solution as possible. Devote a specific amount of time to initial training, and down the road, you may not need as much support.

We think it’s vital to choose a Web solution that includes as much support and training as possible. We’ve got free webinars, an IDEAS forum, training videos and on-site training options to help your organization make the most of your membership management software.

No matter which AMS is right for your association, though, take into account the amount of included support when making your selection. It’s true that many AMS vendors have “best practices” for associations (such as recurring events or a career center) already build into the product, but it can be tricky to sort out exactly which ones are best suited for your organization. A dedicated support staff can help you during the early stages, and it’s wise to take advantage of the help.

A great Web presence can make your members more engaged and your organization more competitive. And the right technology choice can help you save time and money in the long run, allow you to put the focus back where it belongs — on your members.

From http://alphabettr.com/

This is part one of an ongoing series entitled “Tech Tips.” We’ll be sharing valuable tips and information about the importance and benefits of technology, as well as what to look for when selecting a vendor.

Web-based technology can be daunting for associations, especially those with fewer than nine people on staff (aka “small-staff associations”) who may have less time and resources to devote to an AMS. Although it does take some time to learn how to use the software, there are several benefits to “cloud computing” — using the Web for data management. There is no software to install or hardware to keep up with, and you can access your information from any computer. Since your data is available “in the cloud,” you can authorize as many administrators as you like. To be sure, Microsoft Excel and Access are valuable pieces of software, but when you’re managing several hundred or thousand members, plus other things such as dues payment and event registration, those tools can become a bit outdated and cumbersome.

There are many, many options for Web-based association management software. Most providers include disaster relief and data back-up in their plans, so there’s very little need to worry about losing your organization’s information. Support is often included in your monthly or yearly fee. The vendor staff should be knowledgeable about the product and be able to provide tons of support — your organization won’t even necessarily have to employ an IT staff. Because your technology vendor has multiple association customers, the vendor staff will probably be aware of best technology practices for associations, and work those into its product.

Managing your data “in the cloud” can help make your organization more efficient. There may some initial investments — not just money, but also your time — but know that the proper training can make a world of difference once you begin to use the software in your day-to-day life. And no matter which AMS you choose, you’ll likely be able to create new revenue streams, such as sponsorship or job board revenue.