Getting Social: Communication in 2010

January 2010 - By Rick Morgan

 Changes will boost the timeliness of ASCnet communication and encourage greater member interaction

Last year things were so much easier. It was 2009. We could refer to it as ’09. But what about this year? It’s not “oh-ten,” is it? If not, then what? Two thousand ten? Two thousand and ten? Twenty-ten? Something else?

 OK, maybe it doesn’t matter all that much. Or perhaps we’re better off letting someone else decide. I suspect you probably have much more important things to do. I know I do—like support the ASCnet staff, board and other members as we all work together to work to make our organization more valuable to Applied Systems users.

 One thing I know is that 2010—however you choose to say it—marks a milestone for ASCnet. This year, we celebrate at TENCon our 25th year of existence. More important, we embark on another 25 years of top-notch networking, education and advocacy opportunities for members.

 A key element of our mission involves communication. This year, we’re working to boost the interactive nature of our communication.

 Thanks to the Web, we’ve all gotten a little more social. We communicate more freely and quickly with dozens or scores or even hundreds of our associates. We participate in forums. We comment on blog posts and articles we read online. We share our lives on Facebook and Twitter and YouTube.

 We’re making changes that will allow our ASCnet communications to capitalize on this trend. As part of this effort, we are “unbundling” AQ². Beginning with this post, we will deliver an article each week or so, rather than holding them and sharing them every month or two. Each month, we’ll share a digest that reminds members of what’s new.

 Not only will you receive information more quickly, but we’ll present it in such a way that you can respond more easily. We want you to comment, collaborate, dialog and get involved in the discussion. Tell us what you like, what you’re doing, what’s working and what’s not.

 We’re also preparing to evolve the newsgroups to a more modern platform and make them more accessible. Many of you can attest to the fact that newsgroups—even in their current state—represent a valuable resource. They bring a wealth of member knowledge together in one place, which makes it easier for you to access and engage. Our goal is to build on the success of the newsgroups and expand their value.

 At ASCnet, much has changed over the past 25 years, and much will change in the next 25. But one thing remains constant: We’re all about building community and engaging members in the conversation—whether that’s in person or online.

 We’re using social networking to supplement our more traditional communications. As you probably know, we have a Facebook fan page, a Twitter account and a LinkedIn presence. Now, by evolving our member benefits—specifically AQ² and the newsgroups—we hope to drive even greater interaction.

 Now it’s up to you. Tell me what you think about our new direction. Share your ideas for enhancing ASCnet member benefits. Or simply tell me what you’re calling 2010.

 Rick Morgan is ASCnet Interim CEO.