Technology

Lunchtime Links: Invest in New Technologies That Matter

How to evaluate new technologies. Also: Is your organization losing its creative inspiration?

New technologies are all around us, every day. How to identify the ones that are worthy of serious consideration, and more, in today’s Lunchtime Links.

Worthy tech: There’s no hiding from technology. It’s in our lives and in our work. And, at the pace at which innovation moves, the next big thing always seems to be just around the corner. But not every new technology is worth your time—or your money. Writing for Velvet Chainsaw’s Midcourse Corrections blog, nonprofit consultant Jeff Hurt suggests four ways organizations can identify “technologies that matter.” These technologies “have the potential to dramatically change the status quo,” writes Hurt. “They are transformative and can change how people live, work, and play. They often create new opportunities and shift surplus for businesses.” Hurt recommends that organizations set out to identify disruptive technologies that demonstrate a high rate of change in price and performance compared to alternatives; look for tools that have a broad impact across industries, such as mobile devices; and always keep an eye out for innovations that stand to have a significant economic impact. How does your organization evaluate new technologies?

Project success: Despite associations’ many contributions to society, some struggle with projecting success. You did something great—that’s awesome. But how do you tell people about it? That’s the question Virtual, Inc., President Andy Freed asks in a recent post on his firm’s Association Management Blog. Freed’s advice: “Don’t be afraid to repeat yourself.” More specifically: “Take an integrated approach, and reframe the story for your newsletter, your blog, and other communication channels.” Create periodic “value reports” for your members that demonstrate the hard work your organization does on their behalf. Don’t forget to issue press releases and share your successes with the media. And plan ahead with a targeted social strategy that enables your association to connect with members and influencers consistently, day in and day out.

Brain drain: Feeling less creative and inspired these days? You’re not alone. According to a recent survey of creative professionals by KRC research, workplaces the world over appear to be losing their creative mojo. Nearly a quarter (23 percent) of creative workers say they spend less than two hours a day doing creative work. Creative professionals blame this dulling of the workplace on three factors: lack of inspiration, lack of funding, and lack of time. Looking for ways to jumpstart creative inspiration at your organization? As part of its Free the Creative initiative, iStock recently published this infographic, which suggests several places you and your coworkers can turn for inspiration. Feeling drained? Go for a walk, take a shower, or listen to music. Take a few moments to yourself, reboot, then wait for the lightning to strike.

What are you reading today? Tell us in the comments.

(Ron Chapple Studios/Thinkstock)

Corey Murray

By Corey Murray

Corey Murray is a contributor to Associations Now. MORE

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