Just how do associations influence society?
The ASAE Foundation, a separate nonprofit entity of Washington, DC-based ASAE (American Society of Association Executives), has announced the launch of a multi-year research initiative that aims to highlight some of the contributions associations make to society.
“The 2020 ‘Centennial Research Initiative’ will examine how associations make society safer, stronger and smarter; specifically, how they influence and impact local and global communities,” explains ASAE Board Chair, Sal Martino, who is also chief executive officer and executive director of the American Society of Radiologic Technologists. “This groundbreaking research, which will be released as ASAE celebrates its 100th anniversary, will explore the multifaceted societal contributions of trade and professional associations on foundational components including education, workforce development, economy, protection and safety, preparation for the future and change management.”
Research firms WESTAT and McKinley, along with digital agency Social Driver, will collaborate with the ASAE Foundation on aspects of data-collection, analysis, interpretation, dissemination and engagement of the findings.
“ASAE sees value in investing in this study to ensure there is credible evidence to support the power of associations through the lens of our daily lives,” adds Martino. “Not only is this a special time for ASAE and its members, this research also presents an opportunity to engage beyond the boundaries of association management with communities such as legislators, academicians, corporations, to showcase how associations create measurable differences in their communities. It will also highlight the role associations will play in addressing broader societal needs and issues into the future,” adds Martino.
“ASAE sees value in investing in this study to ensure there is credible evidence to support the power of associations through the lens of our daily lives.”
ASAE Foundation’s research is designed to help professionals improve their work and organizations, ranging from business operations to technology and diversity and inclusion. Previous research studies include “Association Global Maturity: Critical Actions for Successful International Growth” for associations thinking about expanding their operations abroad, and “Maintaining Tech Success Now and in the Future,” a study to gauge members’ and IT decision makers’ satisfaction with their association’s tech savvy. The research showed associations were meeting member needs but will have to make changes to keep up with technology’s future demands.
For more information about the upcoming research initiative or learn how your organization might participate, please contact ASAE Chief Research Officer Dr. Sharon E. Moss at [email protected].
