Professional associations are at a pivotal moment in their history. Their role will be crucial in navigating the disruptive social model changes we will experience in the coming decades. However, the challenges they face are enormous. There is a significant trust crisis among many professionals, particularly younger ones, who demand greater transparency, genuine advocacy for their rights, and more sustainable management. The challenge is even greater for those fields where membership is mandatory to practice.
The digitalization of professional associations is both an opportunity and a challenge. Digitalization has the potential to enable professional associations to provide improved services to their members and implement more transparent and sustainable management. However, without proper planning and a budget aligned with the organization’s needs, digitalization can become a headache for both staff and members.
Public funding, such as grants for professional training in digitalization and AI, can serve as a valuable boost for these types of projects. But what are the most promising areas of digitalization for professional associations?
Artificial Intelligence and other tools for professional associations
Some professional associations are already taking advantage of artificial intelligence (AI) and other advanced technologies in various areas:
- Data processing: Using AI to analyze large volumes of data, such as satisfaction surveys, industry trends, or predictions about member behavior.
. - Automated advisory services:Chatbots for professional associations that answer members’ FAQs quickly and efficiently.
- Document optimizacion: Optical character recognition (OCR) tools and document management systems that digitize and organize physical files.
- Online training : Platforms using AI to personalize learning paths and provide training tailored to members’ needs.
These applications streamline internal processes and promote more effective, personalized interactions with members.
Digitalization of Assemblies and Elections: Transparency and good governance
An increasing number of professional associations worldwide are organizing telematic or hybrid assemblies and elections. Even those that require face-to-face attendance at these crucial events are beginning to digitize tasks such as announcements, attendance confirmations, proxy voting, access control, and even vote recording.
The digitalization of assemblies and elections addresses members’ demands for transparency and accountability. Today, it’s difficult to justify why, given the available technology, an organization would not facilitate access to these events for all its members.
When selecting the ideal technological solution, it’s important to ensure the provider has the necessary experience and certifications. Additionally, the tool’s usability should cater to users of all ages. The provider should also include training and technical support for the staff managing the technology.
If all these factors are carefully considered, these solutions offer significant advantages:
1. Transparency and Security
- Digital systems ensure simpler, more auditable processes, reducing the risks of errors or irregularities.
- Technologies like cryptography and timestamps ensure that votes are auditable and secret where required by statutes, bolstering member trust.
2. Accessibility for All Members
- They facilitate participation from anywhere, removing geographical and physical barriers - especially useful for members with mobility challenges.
- They allow access from different devices, adapting to the needs of users.
3. Time and resource savings
- Tasks such as announcements, attendance tracking, and vote counting are automated, significantly reducing time spent on these processes.
- They minimize costs associated with in-person events, such as venue rentals or document printing.
4. Encouraging active participation
- By being more agile and accessible, these platforms encourage greater member participation, strengthening the legitimacy of decisions made.
- They offer tools like forums and real-time surveys, promoting richer, more dynamic discussions.
5. Adaptability and scalability
- Platforms can be customized to align with each professional association’s regulations and statutes.
- Their ability to grow with the organization’s needs makes them a strategic long-term investment.
A digital future for professional associations
The digitalization of professional associations represents a significant opportunity for these organizations. There are digitalization grants that associations can leverage, but having clear objectives and an action plan is essential. Learning from how other associations apply artificial intelligence and other tools is an excellent source of inspiration.
The digitalization of assemblies and elections is particularly impactful. It’s not just about modernizing processes but also about strengthening members’ trust and engagement. In an increasingly interconnected world, these tools are a tangible example of how digitalization can transform decision-making within associations.
If your professional association hasn’t taken this step yet, now is the time. Investing in technology means investing in efficiency, accessibility, and transparency. Contact us if you need guidance to implement these solutions in your professional association.
