Are you left wondering how you can possibly embrace another technology that supports communication with all you currently have on your plate? Does it feel like you are trying to find that unique piece of "food" that may have washed up on the shore? It’s daunting the idea of another tool that may require additional resources and skills. Beth Kanter, in a recent blog post with MomsRising.org mentions how this organization “is there to support the members, not the other way around.” Given its “member-centric” focus, MomsRising recognizes the need to employ “multiple ways to listen and engage in a dialogue with a diverse range of mothers across the country.” Furthermore, the organization is constantly monitoring and tuning what’s working. Active dialogue across demographic sectors is crucial to MomsRising’s mission; consequently, there is a high priority on ensuring adequate resources (including utilization of multiple technologies) required for the success of these “channels.” MomsRising.org is recognized as a stellar example of a “new” model for issue-organizing – in fact, the organization is almost an unorganization in that it is not bound by traditional constraints. Which leaves more traditional organizations wondering: how can we successfully employ more communication tools without compromising what we’re already doing? Now, here’s the part where you need to put aside your doubt and just keep reading… enabling true dialogue (not just one way communication) with your constituents does not necessarily mean a whole new undertaking complete with additional resources. Engaging your community in meaningful, sustainable dialogue starts with commitment and simplification on behalf of your organization.
Does your organization have strategic plan that directly supports your mission? A clear, concise strategic plan accessible to your entire organization will help your team (including your constituents) stay focused on the end objective(s). Your strategic plan is invaluable when it comes to evaluating technologies which will best serve your organization. Instead of ignoring or haphazardly employing new communication tools, everyone in your organization has the ability to ask: “Does this technology facilitate the execution of our strategic plan?” This systematic evaluation greatly increases the odds that the tools that pass the test will be a good fit and no one wastes time on tools that will not ultimately support your group in achieving its mission. Importantly, a strategic plan will call out technologies you are currently embracing which are outdated or ill suited for your mission. It may be time to retire some of the old and bring in the new – a process which could greatly enhance your efforts without requiring additional resources. So, while the strategic planning process is not necessarily simple in and of itself, it leads to tremendous simplification for your organization as a whole. Including highly effective dialogue with your constituents.
At the groupery, we recognize the increasing need for organizations to access and employ effective communication tools that pull supporters out of the bleachers and onto the field. Being informed isn’t enough. True engagement of individuals is now a requirement for both the short term and long term viability of communities. Moreover, highly functioning communities are encouraging and providing the tools for more than just financial contributions – they seek previously untapped ideas and expertise from their constituents. We also recognize that when it comes to existing and emerging technologies that allow for interactive/collaborative communities there is a lot to choose from. How is your organization navigating this process? Do you have the resources to take on new technologies and constituents who can jump right in? Are you effectively “delivering” to all your constituents or are some left behind due to technology hurdles or broad messaging that feels like more noise? What are your challenges and what are your successes? How could you simplify internally both through strategy and technology selection to stay focused on your mission? We’ve shared some thoughts but would like to hear yours.
