In fact, I think the Internet can help us level the playing field with for-profit competitors. I'm thinking especially of the opportunities presented by distance learning and, especially, Web-based information sharing. We no longer need to spend money creating and distributing reams of printed material that's outdated as soon as it's produced. We have new ability to offer our services and leverage knowledge globally, unrestricted by time zones or geography. The result should be better collaboration and more seamless efforts.
Small associations can now be just as far-reaching and easily accessible as large organizations.
I believe that our association community can develop its own portals and vertical integration streams. We simply have to work together within our fields and on behalf of the association world as a whole to accomplish our member goals and remain competitive. Part of the difficulty is coming up with flexible, responsive new products and services. To mention just one challenge, technology allows people to communicate 24 hours a day. But another difficulty is changing the way we think.