Retrieval Augmented Generation (RAG) AI:

In this episode, host Evan Reid sits down with data strategy expert Heather Harris, PhD and developer Mohammed Afnan Waseem for an in-depth conversation on the opportunities and challenges of deploying Retrieval-Augmented Generation (RAG) AI systems. The discussion begins with an exploration of data strategy, focusing on the importance of understanding proprietary data, questions around data ownership, and how RAG systems retrieve and apply information in real time. The panel then breaks down system design fundamentals, highlighting key components such as embeddings and vectorization, while also addressing infrastructure considerations using cloud platforms like AWS and Azure. They dive into the risks associated with using proprietary data in AI, including concerns over intellectual property, data security, and potential legal implications. The conversation also touches on policy considerations, including the development of AI governance frameworks. 

We all love to talk strategy - especially tech strategy! But what happens when it’s time to move from planning to execution within our associations? Join us for Tech Strategy in Action, a three-part series where we dive into exactly that.  

In Part 1, we’ll explore how RAPS developed and implemented an outstanding data strategy, led by our guest Wendy Sahli, Director of Technology at RAPS. After a quick discussion on the fundamentals of data strategy and its role in a strong technology ecosystem, we’ll take a deep dive into RAPS journey – from where they started when Wendy joined, how their data strategy evolved, where they are today, and what exciting things are on the horizon. Wendy holds a masterclass in developing a data strategy and executing it to propel technology forward! 

Hosted by Norma Castrejon, Strategic Consultant at DelCor Technology Solutions and Rhoni Rakos, Lead Consultant, Digital Strategy at Ellipsis Partners.  

Make sure to follow TPAC on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/asae-tpac/ 

Retrieval-Augmented Generation (RAG) is an emerging AI approach that is gaining traction across industries. In this episode, hosts Mischa Getter, Heather Harris, PhD, and Afnan Waseem introduce RAG, explaining what it is and why organizations are increasingly adopting it. They provide a high-level definition of RAG and explore how it differs from traditional AI models, making it a valuable tool for improving response accuracy and reducing misinformation.

The discussion delves into the mechanics of RAG, offering a straightforward explanation of how it retrieves external knowledge to enhance AI-generated responses. The hosts highlight real-world applications, showcasing how Big Tech and other industries are leveraging RAG to improve information quality. They also examine key benefits, such as enhanced response reliability and the ability to mitigate inaccuracies in AI-generated content.

While RAG presents significant advantages, it also comes with challenges. The episode addresses concerns like knowledge gaps and hallucinations, explaining the risks and limitations that organizations must consider. The hosts explore how companies are navigating these challenges and why RAG remains a compelling choice for AI development. Tune in to gain a deeper understanding of this transformative technology and its impact on the future of AI.

Misha Getter: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michael-getter/

Heather Harris, PhD: https://www.linkedin.com/in/heatherdawnharris/

Mohammed Afnan Waseem: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mohammed-afnan-waseem/

TPAC on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/asae-tpac/ 

How can technology transform the way organizations plan and execute meetings and events? Join ASAE Tech Council member Vinnu Deshetty as she talks with Atul (AK) Srivastava, CIO of the American College of Emergency Physicians, about his groundbreaking work dismantling technology silos. 

Atul shares how his approach to breaking down barriers within the organization led to more efficient, innovative, and collaborative solutions for their meetings and events. Discover the strategies he implemented to streamline processes, enhance attendee experiences, and drive meaningful connections through technology. 

Packed with challenges, triumphs, and actionable insights, this episode is a must-listen for tech leaders and event professionals seeking to revolutionize how technology supports meetings and events. 

Make sure to follow TPAC on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/asae-tpac/ 

Artificial Intelligence (AI) was used in the editing of the podcast to remove "Umm"s and "Ahh"s, but all content was created by people! 

In this episode of the Association Tech Insider podcast, hosted by Wes Trochlil, President of Effective Database Management and a member of ASAE's Technology Professionals Advisory Council (TPAC), Wes, accompanied by experts Amy Gavin, Monica Pemberton, and Adam Savino, discuss the intricate process of system selection for associations.

They delve into two main categories: enterprise systems and applications. They explore identifying organizational needs, crafting requests for proposals (RFPs), evaluating vendor demonstrations, and negotiating contracts.

The conversation offers insights into maintaining alignment with organizational strategy, the importance of stakeholder involvement, customer journey mapping, and ensuring post-implementation support.

The guests share practical advice on building partnerships with vendors and leveraging internal resources like finance teams to manage application consumption effectively. They also emphasize the significance of detailed planning and transparency in the selection and implementation process.

This year the ASAE Technology Professional Advisory Council (TPAC) will host a series of podcasts in collaboration with ASAE Young Professionals Advisory Council on the upward mobility to the C-Suite. This podcast features a conversation between a young professional and a CEO about what it takes to climb the ladder to the C-Suite in the association world. 

Hosted by Michael Pereira, Marketing Manager at School Nutrition Association and featuring Sheri Sesay-Tuffour, PhD, FASAE, CAE, ICE-CCP, IOM the Chief Executive Officer at the Pediatric Nursing Certification Board. 

Make sure to follow TPAC on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/asae-tpac/ 

In this episode of Association Tech Insider, we share actionable tips for optimizing your organization's data collection and management. From asking the right questions to secondary data sources, these quick wins will help you streamline your data quality efforts - for organizations of all sizes!Hosted by Jenny Johnson, CAE, Senior Director, Enterprise Services at the American Psychiatric Association and Dana Karstensen, Data Governance Product Manager at the American Society of Anesthesiologists.

In this podcast, we will recap the recent AWTC Webinar “Unpacking Data Governance – Defining Roles, Processes, and Priorities” where guests and participants dove into three key pillars of good data governance: 

Hosted by Alex Mouw, Principal Strategic Advisor for Membership Organizations at AWS for Nonprofits and featuring Dana Karstensen, Data Governance Product Manager at the American Society of Anesthesiologists; Norma Castrejon – strategic consultant at Delcor, and Evan Reid, Sr Director of Analytics for the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA).  

Want to know more about the ASAE Technology Professionals Advisory Council (TPAC)? Find us on LinkedIn. 

In collaboration with ASAE’s Young Professional Advisory Council, the ASAE Technology Professional Advisory Council (TPAC) will host a podcast series focused on workforce development and career growth. This series address the pivotal question: “I want to be a CXO, how do I get there?”  

Each episode will feature a young professional interviewing an association professional in a C-suite role. In today’s episode, John Losh, Sr. Director of Membership & Customer Insights and past Chair of Young Professional Advisory Council leads a conversation with Chantal Almonord, CAE, Chief Information & Engagement Officer at ISPOR and Board Member at Association Women Technology Champions. 

Listen to Chantel as she shares her journey to the C-suite and provides actionable advice for association professionals looking to take a path to leadership.  

Make sure to follow TPAC on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/asae-tpac/ 

It's Halloween, and to celebrate the ASAE Technology Professionals Advisory Council brought together three council members to share their scary IT stories and the lessons learned!

Hosted by Justin Burniske, Principal Consultant at Meta-Dao, he talks with Norma Castrejon, Strategic Consultant, Technology Consulting at DelCor Technology Solutions, Michael (Misha) Getter, Vice President, Systems and Technology at Global Cold Chain Alliance and Becky Breeden, Chief Executive Officer at Brightfind. They share stories of email outages, abandoned implementations and insecure data - OH MY!

Hopefully you'll be scared into taking some extra precautions in any situations when you tackle future projects - particularly when it comes to identifying the best tools and partners to work with!

⁠Norma Castrejon⁠

Michael (Misha) Getter

Becky Breeden

Justin Burniske