The past few years have shown that AI goes beyond a short-lived novelty and is sticking around. However, as recently discussed on the Sidecar Sync podcast, many associations face significant hurdles when it comes to adopting AI. The following guide comprehensively addresses six common obstacles and provides practical strategies for association leaders to overcome them, thus paving the way for successful AI integration.
One of the most common objections to AI adoption is a lack of time. Many association professionals feel overwhelmed by their current workload and view AI as another task on their already full plate. However, this perspective overlooks AI's potential to save time in the long run.
Action step: Schedule a leadership meeting to discuss the potential impact of AI on your association's future. Use this to build consensus on the urgency of adoption.
Action step: Implement a "Learning Friday" where team members spend the last hour of the workday exploring AI tools or taking online courses.
Action step: Conduct a team-wide audit of current tasks. For each task, ask: "Is this essential? Can it be automated? Can it be delegated?" Create a plan to phase out or automate non-essential tasks.
Action step: Identify one repetitive task in each department that could be automated with AI. Implement these automations and track the time saved.
Action step: Review your current tech stack for AI features. Many AMS, CRM, and marketing automation platforms now include AI capabilities.
Remember, the time invested in AI now will yield significant returns in efficiency and innovation later.
Many associations hesitate to adopt AI due to the absence of clear policies and guidelines. While it's important to have governance in place, waiting for perfect policies before getting started can significantly delay progress.
Action step: Draft a one-page AI usage guideline covering basic principles like data privacy, ethical use, and transparency. Make it clear that this is version 1.0 and will be updated regularly.
Action step: Consult with your legal team or an external expert to ensure your initial guidelines cover critical legal and ethical considerations.
Action step: Schedule quarterly policy review meetings. Involve team members who are actively using AI to get their input on necessary updates.
Action step: Set up a separate AI testing environment with non-sensitive data. Encourage team members to experiment freely in this space.
Action step: Hold a town hall meeting to introduce the AI guidelines. Create an easily accessible document (e.g., a wiki page) where team members can review guidelines and suggest changes.
Some team members may resist AI training, arguing that policies should be in place first. This creates a catch-22 situation where experience is needed to create effective policies, but policies are seen as a prerequisite for gaining experience.
Action step: Start with a 'Lunch and Learn' series on AI basics. As team members become more comfortable, gradually introduce more advanced training.
Action step: Create a roadmap that shows the parallel tracks of AI adoption and policy development. Share this with the team to illustrate how both will progress together.
Action step: Identify three low-risk AI projects (e.g., using AI for content ideation or basic data analysis). Implement these as pilot projects.
Action step: Set up a dedicated Slack channel or regular check-in meetings for AI users to share insights and raise concerns.
Action step: Share case studies or invite guest speakers from associations successfully using AI to share their experiences.
It's common for teams to have diverse opinions about AI, ranging from enthusiasm to skepticism or even fear. This mix of attitudes can create friction and slow down adoption efforts.
Action step: Hold a series of "AI Town Halls" where team members can voice concerns and ask questions in a safe environment.
Action step: Create an "AI Resource Library" with curated articles, videos, and courses. Allocate time for team members to use these resources.
Action step: After gathering input, clearly communicate the association's AI strategy and the rationale behind it. Be transparent about the decision-making process.
Action step: Create a monthly "AI Win" newsletter highlighting successful AI implementations within your association or peer organizations.
Action step: Develop and communicate a plan for how AI will be integrated into existing roles, emphasizing skill development and new opportunities.
Many associations experiment with free AI tools but hesitate to invest in paid versions. This can limit the benefits and potentially expose the organization to risks.
Action step: Create a comparison chart showing the features and limitations of free vs. paid versions of key AI tools.
Action step: Conduct a pilot project using both free and paid versions of an AI tool. Document the differences in results and user experience.
Action step: Calculate the potential ROI of a team subscription, factoring in time saved and new capabilities gained.
Action step: Review current software subscriptions. Identify any that could be replaced or consolidated with AI-powered alternatives.
Action step: Propose a 3-month trial of a paid AI tool for a specific team or project. Set clear KPIs to measure its impact.
After initial AI experiments, many associations struggle to determine their next steps. This uncertainty can stall momentum and prevent deeper integration of AI into operations.
Action step: Allocate a specific budget for AI education. Offer incentives for team members who complete AI certifications or courses.
Action step: Conduct an "AI Opportunity Workshop" where teams brainstorm potential AI applications. Prioritize ideas based on potential impact and feasibility.
Action step: Launch an "AI Challenge" program where teams compete to solve a specific association problem using AI tools.
Action step: Work with department heads to create a 12-month AI integration plan for each area of the association.
Action step: Implement a "fail fast" policy for AI projects, emphasizing quick iterations and learning from unsuccessful attempts.
Adopting AI in your association doesn't have to be an insurmountable challenge. By addressing these common obstacles head-on, you can pave the way for successful AI integration. The key is to start now. Take the first step today—whether it's scheduling time for AI learning, drafting initial guidelines, or investing in a paid AI tool. Learn continuously and be willing to adapt as you go. The associations that embrace AI today will be better positioned to serve their members and fulfill their missions in the future.
Looking to take that first step but not wanting to spend any money? Look no further than Ascend 2nd Edition, your guide to all things AI in associations. Available for FREE download here.