SAF's Technology and Membership Services Committees took a bold step in changing the organization's approach on engaging its membership. The two committees discussed ways on leveraging new (and not so new) technologies to draw upon input or more specifically, spark mass collaboration among all participants in the floral industry - SAF members and non-members! This concept of course comes directly from the ideas outlined in Wikinomics by Don Tapscott and Anthony D. Williams.
The group is recommending SAF form a "Wikinomics" Task Force to oversee the development of SAF's next version of its Web site(s) using the guiding principle of Wikinomics. I'll blog more on this Task Force later once we solidify its members.
I was introduced to Wikinomics during ASAE & The Center's 2008 Technology Conference. Anthony D. Williams served both as keynote and catalyst for much of the discussion among attendees. Much of the conference programming complemented his talk and convinced me that despite expected resistance from many of SAF's leadership, this is the course our association must proceed.
As timing would have it, SAF's Technology Committee's Spring Meeting was immediately after the conference in February. Tech usually meets with SAF's Membership Committee to discuss the organization's products and services but also talk about its Web site. When I first introduced the idea to the combined group, I would say it was 50/50 split on those who immediately understood the potential and benefits of the Wikinomics concept and those who did not, including SAF's own Director of Member Services, Dave Bowman. Discussion was feisty and we decided to give the group the summer to read the book and reconvene for further discussion.
Back to the last meeting. Everyone, including Dave, is on board. Timing again was perfect as SAF's member President Rod Saline of Engwall Florist and Greenhouse was in on most of the discussion. I've known Rod for more than 10 years. Although he would admit to the contrary, he's a true technologist in the sense that he's adopted all the technology beneficial for his business, such as advanced point-of-sale systems, e-commerce Web, etc. I get the feeling he'll apply the same approach with his leadership of the association. And judging from his reaction and comments, will hopefully champion SAF's adoption of Wikinomics principles.
I'll keep you posted on how everything proceeds. My goal by the time our next meeting rolls around is have the Wikinomics Task Force present a development Web site to both Committees.
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