by Mary Byers | Mar 12, 2021 | Blog, Conversation Starters, Strategies for Success
In 2012, Michigan farmers experienced a gut-punch: the worst year on record since 1925 due to a deep freeze. Apple growers picked only 10-15 percent of their normal crop. Tart cherry production dropped by a whopping 92 percent. Peaches, pears and plums had essentially...
by Mary Byers | Mar 3, 2021 | Blog, Conversation Starters, Strategies for Success
An association innovation process map makes it easier to understand what happens when and how it will happen. It assists staff in understanding their respective creation roles. And, importantly, it makes it easier to emphasize the importance of innovation during new...
by Mary Byers | Dec 3, 2020 | Blog, Conversation Starters, Strategies for Success
When a group of association consultants met via Zoom recently, they realized that what they are observing might be helpful to the association boards and staff charged with creating a way forward during an unexpected, turbulent time. Here’s their advice for 2021 and...
by Mary Byers | Sep 24, 2020 | Blog, Conversation Starters, Strategies for Success
Humans love certainty. And we love to plan and decide and strategize when we are certain about the facts, the future and our assumptions. But what about decision making in times of uncertainty? The reality is there is no such thing as 100% certainty. In order to make...
by Mary Byers | Jun 24, 2020 | Blog, Conversation Starters, Relevant Thoughts, Strategies for Success
What’s your North Star? It’s a question I’ve asked clients repeatedly over the last several months—and one I plan to continue asking. Polaris—the North Star—represents direction and purpose and finding one’s way. And finding a way is the work that so many association...
by Mary Byers | Jun 10, 2020 | Blog, Conversation Starters, Strategies for Success
My friend, Joy Duling, Founder/CEO of The Joy of Membership, writes with clarity about the choices organizations have today as a result of COVID-19. Joy’s company helps membership-based organizations reach goals faster through membership experience design, process...