Take a step back and look at the marquee members. Don't get me wrong, I see value in associations. At some point in every industry's life cycle, important functions such as self-regulation and lobbying are much more effectively undertaken by an association, rather than by individual corporations. For example, the association said its members will work government bodies to ensure that real estate transactions may be undertaken electronically. In addition, members will encourage new policies to allow greater cooperation between all transaction-related parties and tighter security standards to protect private financial information.
Associations also are valuable inter-industry marketing tools.
The great danger of industry associations is that power goes to the heads of those involved, who then decide to try and control more than is proper. One sensible voice did come out of the group's first meeting. We must continue to innovate and ensure we can wow the consumer every step of the way. This Article to a Friend Check your credit in the Credit Center. All Rights Reserved.