Working with state health officials early on, NGA helped to create a roadmap for reopening that governors could tailor to meet the needs of their states.
With more than 8 million restaurant workers laid off since the beginning of coronavirus, NRAEF created the Restaurant Employee Relief Fund and distributed one-time $500 payments to those in need.
To deal with patient surge, AIA developed an assessment tool to help healthcare and non-healthcare entities make decisions about converting spaces into healthcare operations.
ASA and RILA joined forces to help retail businesses that provide essential services—like pharmacies and grocery stores—fill immediate job openings when COVID-19 hit.
From testing to treatment to infection prevention, IDSA became a critical resource for medical professionals and the public health community from the earliest days of the pandemic.
NAM and Business Roundtable partnered to help states and the federal government obtain personal protective equipment and other supplies needed to care for COVID-19 patients.
With PPE in short supply for healthcare workers on the front lines, AHA launched a nationwide campaign to rapidly produce surgical masks and face shields for them. Their goal: 100 million masks.
Content to help members prepare for recovery; an image repository for research and education; the role of physical therapy on the front lines; member volunteers relieve overwhelmed funeral homes.
Coordinated effort produces essential supplies; telehealth in the spotlight; housing for front-line workers; virus illustrations as training tools; distillers become hand sanitizer producers.
Even before the coronavirus pandemic, economists were speculating on the timing of the next recession. Now, the economic picture has darkened substantially. It’s time to take a look at your core mission, dues structure, partnerships, and more to better weather any coming storm.
Event cancellation insurance, contingency plans raise concerns for event planners.
Current World Health Organization statistics on incidence of COVID-19 worldwide and a roundup of conference, travel, and business news and information.
With many employees working from home—thrust into close quarters with relatives and distanced from coworkers and friends—an expert says it is important to practice self-care.
In a letter to White House economic advisor Larry Kudlow, ASAE says that associations shouldn’t be left out of conversations regarding aid packages related to the coronavirus.
Now through May is peak travel time for students—many taking spring break and class trips. With virus fears prevalent, Student and Youth Travel Association members are making adjustments to give students a safe travel experience.
As fears about the spread of the virus rise, associations are determining how they will cope if a severe outbreak hits the U.S. Business continuity plans cover many emergencies—including infectious disease—so make sure yours is up to date. If you ever wondered why you should develop a business continuity plan, coronavirus has supplied an answer. […]
An advocacy group for college athletes is calling on the NCAA to consider playing March Madness games without crowds to prevent the spread of infections. The NCAA isn’t at that point yet, but it does have contingency plans for its major basketball tournaments.
Current updates on association response to the global COVID-19 crisis, along with a roundup of conference, travel, and business news and information. Bridging the Broadband Gap With teachers and students, doctors and patients, and employers and workers nationwide dependent on reliable internet connections amid the pandemic, Business Roundtable is pressing Congress to provide more funding […]
As concern about the coronavirus grows, the World Health Organization recently released a report with recommendations about keeping attendees safe at large events.
The White House this week asked Congress for emergency funds to prepare a response to a potential surge of coronavirus cases in the U.S. But Democrats on the Hill say more will be needed.
Numerous events big and small have had to change their schedules or even cancel in response to lingering concerns about the Wuhan coronavirus. The disease led to the recent cancellation of Mobile World Congress, among others.
With the coronavirus causing quarantines in China and putting other Asian cities on high alert, staff are working from home, taking precautions, and looking for workarounds to keep up with job duties without risking infection.
The widely attended technology industry event, which takes place each year in Barcelona, had faced the departure of more than two dozen vendors in recent days over concerns about the spread of the coronavirus.
Nonprofits focused on verifying facts in real time are working in overdrive to make sure that information about the Wuhan coronavirus is as accurate as it can be.
Associations worried they might have to cancel a meeting due to the Wuhan coronavirus typically won’t have coverage unless they purchased a communicable disease rider, says an expert.
The deadly virus has spread quickly from China to the United States, and as researchers scramble to find a treatment, medical groups are advising members and the public on how to recognize cases and protect themselves.
Associations stepped up to take on key public health roles during the pandemic, informing the public and supporting front-line workers during a difficult time.
Gaming, baking, gardening, and crafting have all seen a huge surge of interest since the pandemic began—and their associations took advantage of the opportunity.
Between federal laws and staff needing to take time off for illness or to care for relatives or children during the pandemic, leave policies can feel like a tangled web. An expert offers tips for creating leave policies that work for staff and employers and comply with leave laws.
A new leader hit the ground running to make sure his members had everything they needed to meet Americans’ healthcare needs at the start of the pandemic. He’s continuing that work now during the nationwide COVID-19 vaccine rollout.
The Society of Women Engineers honors pioneering women in the field with a Women’s History Month timeline. Also: Tradeshows are experimenting with in-person events again.
John Graham IV, FASAE, CAE, will be inducted into the Events Industry Council's Hall of Leaders. Also: A medical association stands up for a doctor facing criminal charges for distributing the COVID-19 vaccine rather than wasting it.
In a letter to the new president, ASAE urged the administration to tap into the expertise and resources that associations can bring to policy discussions about the challenges facing America.
The International Air Transport Association's Travel Pass apps, designed to take complexity out of post-pandemic travel, are on track to launch soon, IATA says. Also: Could the pandemic put the five-day workweek out to pasture?
The National Association of Chain Drug Stores pledges that its members can serve up 100 million vaccine doses to the U.S. population in just a month—if they get the supply. Also: A quiz to test your news literacy.
As meeting professionals plan for future in-person meetings, they'll need to incorporate new technologies and processes to keep all participants safe. One tool to consider is digital contact tracing. Here's a look at what’s involved.
The American Health Care Association and National Center for Assisted Living has created a toolkit to encourage residents and staffers in long-term care facilities to get vaccinated. Also: Nashville raises money to rebuild after the Christmas Day bombing.
The Association of Medical Device Reprocessors helped get PPE to hospitals as the pandemic intensified. Its next step is making the healthcare industry more sustainable.
[Sponsored] This year, community has been difficult to uphold. Here’s how associations are helping members stay plugged in.
The organizer of the annual charitable holiday says donations surged in 2020. Also: tips for curating content more effectively.
After months of stalemate, a new framework for coronavirus relief developed by a bipartisan group of senators has support from Democratic leaders.
[Sponsored] As factors change for in-person attendees, resorts are helping planners deliver.
As your association starts planning for 2021, check out some of the bright ideas that kept events—virtual, in-person, and hybrid—shining, despite the complicated year we’re close to finishing.
As virtual meetings become the new norm, more associations will need to Zoom strategic discussions. Here's how to make that process effective.
Much like associations, schools, charities, and political candidates have had to use different tactics to drive fundraising efforts in recent months. Here are some of the things they are trying.
A clever election-oriented organization sees a coronavirus-era surge. Also: A pandemic celebrity wedding announcement that puts a focus on a nonprofit’s mission.
Associations were quick to convert their conferences to virtual events when COVID-19 halted in-person meetings. Looking ahead, associations and their attendees are eager to get back together face to face. But how?
COVID-19 changed pretty much every aspect of meetings, including the business side. As associations make plans for future meetings, it’s more important than ever to get fundamentals like event insurance, contracts, and safety guidelines right.
The Academy of Medical-Surgical Nurses’ revamped sponsorship program paid dividends when the pandemic hit.
Successful businesses will not just react, but actively move forward.
[Sponsored] Associations have long used paywalls to their advantage. But there are strategic opportunities for tapping nondues revenue that they could be leaving on the table.
[Sponsored] In the age of virtual interaction, human-to-human connection is critical to spark creativity, make connections and bring organizations together.
These are tough times for almost every organization, but some for-profits are finding ways to make membership or subscription models continue to work for them. Here’s what they’re doing.
What happens when your chapters hold in-person meetings—even after your association has made it clear that events should only be virtual because of COVID-19? A waiver might be a good idea.
A new resource hub has pandemic survival essentials for business owners. Also: Nonprofits led by people of color are wrestling with COVID-19 alongside systemic racism, and the Building Movement Project’s new report reveals the challenges ahead.
The film industry makes an economic case to save movie theaters, many of which face threats of closing permanently. Also: why the holiday season is coming earlier than ever—and it’s not because Christmas music is already on the radio.
If you’re looking to create a memorable virtual conference, here are five ideas for injecting some fun—and even animals—into the attendee experience.
[Sponsored] A culture of teamwork and empowered decision making helps organizations thrive in times of rapid change.
A familiar echo of “we should have done this earlier” surrounds processes that could have been implemented before the pandemic hit. Telehealth is a prime example. The American Telemedicine Association is taking advantage of its success during the crisis to make telehealth a permanent fixture in U.S. healthcare.
Whether it’s providing hand sanitizer, holding virtual town halls, or finding room for people to vote in person while social distancing, associations are helping to ensure an informed electorate and safe voting this fall.
As the coronavirus upends economies and industries, organizations that want to survive must have an agile and resilient workforce. A new Aon survey looks at these crucial skills and how organizations are cultivating them.
What have resilient associations done to prioritize members, strengthen their mission and remain successful during the COVID-19 pandemic? Personify spoke with leaders across the industry to learn more.
Convention centers, hotels, and other venues already know that when meetings return, many will feature a hybrid format. To prepare for this future, many venues have added new amenities, like broadcast studios, to help meeting planners deliver those experiences.
[Sponsored] Here’s how Phoenix’s event business has adapted deftly in the pandemic.
Who stays remote and who goes back to a shared workplace? In the second installment of our three-part series on establishing a hybrid office, we ask leaders to start by assessing the needs and capabilities of each department.
The Professional Beauty Association scores a win with its reopening strategy in California. Also: The American Lung Association launches a major anti-vaping campaign.
In the first of a three-part series on establishing a hybrid office, we look at four questions leaders need to ask to develop a successful working environment.
The pandemic has meeting professionals exploring new event formats. From drive-in meetings to year-round virtual convention centers, they’re doing what it takes to keep attendees safe and engaged.
Businesses that commit to beefing up health and wellness practices are best positioned for the pandemic and beyond.
Leaders can eliminate barriers to tech adoption with a culture that supports employees. Also: transitioning to a virtual sponsorship program.
Automation can help organizations that are trying to thrive in their new remote work environments. Also: Make your Facebook video content more successful.
Coronavirus has forever changed the meetings industry. As a result, event professionals need new skills to best navigate this new environment. Three to consider developing.
Right now, even with all the disruption caused by the pandemic, you might find yourself looking for a change. How can you manage it? Read on for a few questions you should ask yourself.
AEO’s Tapestry Project, funded by a $1.15 million grant, fuels Black entrepreneurship and helps level an inequitable playing field for Black-owned businesses in five U.S. cities.
With Medicaid funding for Missouri hospice facilities at risk, MHPCA headed off budget cuts by unearthing the data to prove that hospice care saves the state money.
Leadership training and community service with a focus on aviation; molding future leaders for nonprofits and the nation.
It took a while, but videoconferences are finally getting more secure. What changed? Here’s where the vital technology stands five months after the pandemic emerged.
The American Restroom Association has always advocated for the best bathrooms to serve the public. Now, due to the coronavirus pandemic, the group is helping businesses address new safety challenges when it comes to their restrooms.
Associations with fewer than 300 employees would be eligible for PPP funds under the broad COVID-19 relief bill proposed by Senate Republicans this week. But differences with Democrats on many provisions make the bill's future uncertain.
With the shift away from dedicated offices, we’re using more cloud services than before—and likely spending more than we need to, leading to sticker shock. Here are some suggestions to keep your cloud computing expenses in check.
The Consumer Technology Association announced a fully virtual format for its marquee event after previously preparing for a hybrid meeting. Also: how HR can stave off employee burnout.
The idea of reskilling or upskilling was already an emerging trend even before COVID-19. Now it’s more important than ever—and associations can potentially stand out by leveraging their technology to provide next-gen learning opportunities.
Office friendships are an underappreciated part of your culture. Leaders don’t have to make everybody pals, but in a remote environment, it pays to encourage them. Every so often, I miss office hallways. It’s not that hallways are so charming in themselves. They’re just blank, anonymous, in-between spaces. But that’s what makes them so powerful. […]
Despite early concerns that podcast listening would fall into decline, ad revenue projections are up, an IAB report finds. Also: Why you shouldn’t let worry slow down your pace.
As the coronavirus crisis has dampened individual giving by members, foundations can keep on track with their fundraising targets by touching base with current donors, seeking out flush benefactors ready to give, using creative approaches, and staying focused.
There could be more micro-stressors in your life than you think. Also: how to find out if a career change is right for you.
[Sponsored] A behind-the-scenes look at the National Association for Home Care & Hospice’s virtual meeting transition.
A new report from PwC finds that consumer spending took a dramatic move away from in person thanks to COVID-19, moving up the timetable on digital transformation in the process.
An already stressful time got even worse when the pandemic landed during the busiest part of year for certified public accountants—tax season. One association sped up a valuable member benefit in response, with great results.
ASAE and 2,200 other organizations delivered a sign-on letter to Congress, asking that nonprofit associations affected by the COVID-19 pandemic get access to federal relief programs.
Association pros discuss alternate vacation plans given the big shift in travel that COVID-19 has created for many.
The American Pyrotechnics Association says consumer purchasing of fireworks is way up as their usage increases in cities around the country. With sales rising and public displays on hold, the group is emphasizing safety this summer.
COVID-19 has pressed associations to build boards with people who are flexible and eager to lead, and who bring new perspectives to the table. Diversity initiatives offer a path to get there.
In a letter to the Federal Reserve, ASAE asked the Fed to expand the scope of the Main Street Lending Program to give 501(c)(6) associations the same access to credit during this difficult time.
How to create remote working conditions that spark inspiration. Also: An effective leader uses both emotional and analytical intelligence.
The Local Media Consortium and the Local Media Association have teamed up for an awareness campaign urging advertisers to support local news. Funded with $15 million from Google, they hope to boost ad revenue for member news organizations.
Government relations is typically done with a handshake, but the Direct Selling Association has found ways to connect virtually with legislators and regulators.
[Sponsored] Inside the American Optometric Association’s member-first crisis plan.
Go beyond assessing your underperforming employees and take steps to set them up for success. Also: how associations can drive unemployed members toward career success.
As organizations communicate with their staff, they must be mindful to make sure messaging is inclusive. Part of that strategy is acknowledging what’s currently happening in the world.
One association recognized well before the global pandemic that its members needed resources to help them manage stress, depression, and other mental health issues. Then COVID-19 hit, and the online resource became timelier than they ever anticipated.
How to take time for yourself without losing productivity. Also: Change management strategies that associations of all sizes can employ.
A fourth package of pandemic relief is not expected to emerge from the Senate until after the July 4 recess. And Senate leaders say it will not resemble the House-passed HEROES Act, which expanded the Paycheck Protection Program to include associations.
As the country confronts two overwhelming crises, the need for organizational cultures that prioritize diversity and inclusion has never been greater, says one association D+I leader.
If you think hosting a virtual conference makes it more difficult to surprise your attendees or incorporate small elements of fun, think again. Here are five ways to delight your participants.
As associations look for ways to increase revenue during the pandemic downturn, one expert says they should consider monetizing their role as matchmaker for industry partners and members.
[Sponsored] During this unprecedented time, associations must leverage creativity, communication and compassion to survive and stay ahead.
With COVID-19 changing the definition of what graduating means for many high school and college students, alumni associations are trying new ideas to ensure the big day still has a special feel.
The new Pandemic Risk Insurance Act, endorsed by ASAE, would create a federal backstop to prevent economic losses from future pandemics.
A snapshot of leading associations reveals that successful member engagement in a crisis environment requires a more personal touch that speaks to both the head and the heart.
Much of the advice about reopening the office has focused on the logistics of floor plans, cleaning, and new norms. Now, experts discuss the practical policies related to smoothly managing your people and addressing their concerns as they come back.
The European Telecommunications Standards Institute and the Association for Computing Machinery have proposed standards for smartphone-based contact-tracing systems to protect personal privacy.
The American Press Institute’s new Trusted Elections Network aims to provide journalists with expert strategies for tackling misinformation during the 2020 election season.
How your organization can provide opportunities even in difficult times. Also: Maximize your data's potential.
Not everyone will want to rush back to your office the minute it reopens. Here are a few things to consider as you decide whether to extend a work-from-home option beyond the immediate COVID-19 emergency.
More people are facing depression, stress, or other mental health challenges as a result of the pandemic, two recent studies found. Many factors are in play, including a person's age, home situation, and job role.
The new measure, introduced by House Democrats this week, would make associations eligible for the Paycheck Protection Program and other aid during the pandemic. A vote is expected Friday, but the bill faces opposition from Senate Republicans.
Organizations facing budget shortfalls after coronavirus closures and cancellations are looking for ways to increase nondues revenue. Experts suggest going back to basic economics: Find out what members and sponsors need and supply it.
Users of the popular social network can more easily delete negative comments and promote positive ones. Also: tough questions to ask and answer during a crisis.
Organizations should be flexible when putting together work-from-home policies. Also: how virtual experiences can still engage audiences.
With so many factors related to the COVID-19 pandemic still unknown, the health and safety of attendees, ASAE staff, and MGM staff drove the decision to convert the in-person conference planned for Las Vegas to a virtual event this August.
Laptops, monitors, and other devices went home with employees months ago, and your organization may have had to support other remote tech needs along the way. An IT association says asset management is necessary now, before workers return to the office.
With many people now working remotely and worried about the coronavirus’ impact, it’s time to change up your email marketing formula. Focus on subject lines, word choices, and infusing the present into your campaigns, one expert advises.
The quickly organized spring counterpart to #GivingTuesday drew a surge in donations, early numbers show. Also: Don’t misjudge your audience.
With many employers laying off workers or putting a freeze on hiring, it's not the easiest time to wade into the job market. But a combination of smart tactics and tenacity can help.
As the economic crisis caused by the coronavirus pandemic stretches on, some associations may need to furlough employees. HR experts explain what this step means and offer some guidance on how to furlough properly.
Taking advantage of the current crisis and new tech tricks, email-based phishing attackers are upping their game at the moment. Here are a few things you should watch for.
Members of the Association of Medical Illustrators banded together quickly to develop timely visual training materials for front-line healthcare professionals responding to the pandemic. Association membership was key to their success.
COVID-19 might have derailed your project plans, but it’s worth considering what might still be possible remotely. There might be more to salvage than you think.
In a recession, associations will be called on to be fiscally responsible. But they'll also be remembered for what they did to address bigger problems.
As COVID-19 causes big shifts in workplaces everywhere, attention to your culture might get lost in the shuffle. But don’t let it. A healthy organizational culture could be the key to your survival.
Forced closures of entertainment venues have left most in desperate financial straits. Many came together to form the National Independent Venue Association, which is seeking federal support and sharing advice among members.
As various states begin to reopen following COVID-19 closures, associations must plan ahead to ensure their employees can safely return to the office. A new guide from real estate services firm Cushman & Wakefield discusses how organizations can prepare. With many states allowing businesses to reopen, associations are looking more closely at how they might […]
The social media company has made it possible for Instagram Live users to donate directly to organizations during livestreams. Also: See what association professionals are saying about ASAE’s virtual MM&C Conference.
In a world where search engines are often the main window to commerce, SEO matters a bit more than ever. Here’s why now might be the time to dive into your search engine results.
With a new initiative generated by the legal and scientific communities, the Open COVID Pledge has already led many tech firms to loosen their grip on their patent portfolios for a greater cause. It’s an impressive example of stakeholders working together quickly.
Although another round of COVID-relief passed Congress without addressing 501(c)(6) associations, there are signs that many legislators are aware of the need to expand eligibility to these groups.
The staggering numbers of coronavirus deaths in some states have left funeral homes without enough personnel to manage the deceased. The National Funeral Directors Association has coordinated member, nonmember, and student volunteers to assist.
Groups big and small are giving their volunteers a big shoutout this week in honor of National Volunteer Week, with many crediting those volunteers for helping even when stuck at home.
As states attempt to fix decades-old codebases on the fly—bases reliant on COBOL, a downright ancient programming language—it’s a good reminder that you need a plan for technical debt even in the most complex of cases.
At a time of great uncertainty, many human resources departments are putting more emphasis on happiness and employee morale than ever—and that may be raising the role’s long-term value.
A changing workforce requires a new approach to employee retention if organizations want to keep their top talent in a business climate facing new uncertainties.
Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the IRS said tax returns and payments for tax-exempt organizations and fiscal-year businesses due between April and June are now delayed until July 15.
Despite the large economic hit the meetings sector is dealing with due to coronavirus, industry professionals, venues, and organizations have still found ways to support one another and their communities.
Blaring headlines detailing stock declines may lead some association professionals to worry about their 401(k). Financial experts say now is not the time to panic, but to continue investing, based on your retirement plans.
For associations that didn’t already manage their data resources on the cloud, the sudden move to take everyone remote highlights how the old server room paradigm doesn’t make much sense anymore.
It can be tempting to dive into big strategic discussions in the midst of the coronavirus crisis. But don’t lose sight of what your stakeholders need in the moment.
Lawmakers are hashing out the next phase of COVID-19 relief as the pandemic continues to hit hard across all sectors of the economy and ASAE presses for more aid to associations. ASAE is holding a video town hall Monday afternoon with leading association advocates in Congress to make the case.
The proper configuration of your workstation can improve productivity. Also: A quality digital marketing campaign starts with good data and information.
With meeting planners unable to travel for site visits and tours, more of these face-to-face processes are moving online. Here's how some destinations and hotels are making it happen.
With people stuck in their homes and staying away from retail, marketing departments are avoiding failures by adapting their messages to the times.
Just weeks into mandatory stay-at-home orders, conference cancellations, and new laws requiring paid leave for coronavirus, many associations are wondering how to stay afloat financially. Two experts offer some tips.
Many are finding ways to survive, and thrive, in the midst of the health crisis.
An association at the heart of the coronavirus crisis has been building meaningful partnerships, if faster than it would like.
The global health crisis has professionals in all industries dealing with uncertainty. To weather the storm, organizations must demonstrate understanding and a willingness to adapt.
Even though much of the world is consumed with fighting the spread of coronavirus, membership renewals are still coming due. Experts offer advice on dealing with renewal notices, while being sensitive to today’s unique environment.
ASAE and nearly 3,000 associations have asked Congress to provide additional aid to trade and professional associations experiencing financial losses due to COVID-19 and to allow 501(c)(6) groups to be eligible for small business interruption loans.
The Families First Coronavirus Response Act requires businesses with fewer than 500 employees to give two weeks of paid sick leave and 10 weeks of partially paid FMLA leave to employees affected by the virus. An expert explains what you need to know.
Zoom calls, for one, aren’t as private as you may think. Here are some ways to protect yourself as we work—and play—at home during the pandemic.
Tuesday’s campaign is all about raising awareness of the wage gap between men and women.
New online platforms help the elderly and isolated feel less alone during this time of social distancing and self-quarantine.
After CoreNet Global postponed its Global Summit in Singapore due to coronavirus, the association created a free virtual summit. With a successful meeting behind them, CoreNet's CEO shares some advice for those wanting to host a virtual event of their own.
Relief for membership associations reeling from event cancellations and other business disruptions amid the coronavirus pandemic was not included in the Senate bill passed Wednesday night.
A communications expert offers tips on using social media to improve connections.
What to do and what to avoid when it comes to connecting with your audience during the current public health crisis.
COVID-19 has spurred organizations to work remotely, schools to close, and conferences to cancel. Amid the uncertainty, it’s time to talk to your sponsors about what you’re doing and offer them ways to still bring value to your members.
The way we work in the future will be different, and organizations need to be ready. Also: Want your audience to trust your content? Don’t forget about fact-checking.
COVID-19 has placed new pressures on association leaders. How do you communicate with staff and members? What do you hold off on or prioritize? Three CEOs share their stories.
Due to COVID-19, working from home is the new normal right now. Here are some tips on keeping your employees productive and happy.
Citing major revenue losses related to the coronavirus pandemic, ASAE is asking lawmakers for $25 billion in emergency aid for associations in a proposed economic stimulus package, along with a federal pandemic risk insurance program.
If your organization was a straggler on the whole remote work concept, you might feel like, after the last couple of weeks, you’ve essentially been thrown into a style of work you weren’t particularly looking to embrace. But perhaps there is a bright side here—a potential for future flexibility.
Focusing on personal goals and aspirations can make you a better worker. Also: Prepare employees for remote work.
With coronavirus causing many groups to rethink face-to-face meeting plans, some have turned to virtual offerings as way to deliver the education their attendees need.
Every major trend line shows that remote work allows employees to be more productive and employers to save money. So why is the federal government having everyone come back into the office? And should you consider the same?
[Sponsored] It’s easy to make a misstep on social media. But with a smart set of governance rules, you can develop an authentic brand voice that engages and delights.
Whether you’re flying across the country or across the world, it’s important to take steps to ensure your health while traveling. Read on for a few expert tips.
