Must See List

This month’s “must see” list begins with an important moment of self-reflection. While we often discuss delivering continuing education to members, we must also consider ourselves and our staffs. In that context, the final selection, “The Case for Professional Development in the Nonprofit Sector,” offers a timely reminder. As the saying goes, however, the shoemaker’s children often go barefoot. Ultimately, I hope this edition of the Must See Six informs and inspires you as 2013 ends and 2014 begins.

Number One

1.The Future Is Now, Inc Magazine
At my company, we frequently organize small group dinners to generate discussion about the future, particularly the future of technology.

Number Two

2.The Online Continuing Education Maturity Curve, The CET Connection 
In the past decade, continuing education (CE) has experienced a distinct trend with respect to the stages of maturity.  CE providers go through these stages to bring the benefit of online CE to their members and participants.

Number Three

3.Business First: The New Mandate for Association Tech, Associations Now
With technology changing so fast that even the experts can barely keep up.  The formula for success has one key ingredient, said the thought leaders at the conclusion of ASAE’s Technology Conference & Expo.  A team approach where tech decision makers are relentlessly focused on business goals.

Number Four

4. IRS Notice of Proposed Rulemaking for Section 501(c)(4) Organizations: Expanding the Scope of “Political” Activities, National Law Review
This announcement is the beginning of a debate at the IRS on how to more precisely define political activity and limit the amount that tax-exempt organizations can spend on it.

Number Five

5. For CEOs, It’s Time to Study up on Technology, Associations Now
CEOs don’t need to be tech experts, AIIM CEO John Mancini says. But they do need more expertise in how technology can simplify (or complicate) the member experience.

Number Six

6. The Case for Professional Development in the Nonprofit Sector, Huffington Post
Nine out of ten nonprofit managers indicated interest in leadership or managerial training.  They believe that it will make them more effective in their roles, yet only half of them have received such training since assuming a role managing direct reports.