Episode Summary:
Dave Coriale sits down with Gretchen Steenstra, Director of Project Strategy and Leadership at DelCor, and Niko Cribb, Technology Consultant at DelCor, to unpack what happened at the DelCor Bootcamp during AMS Fest. They explore the evolving challenges of AMS selection, the importance of ecosystem and context diagrams, and how associations can better prepare for system adoption. From peer-to-peer learning to the impact of private equity on vendor trust, this episode is packed with practical takeaways for association professionals navigating the complex world of association management systems. 

Topics & Themes:

• Inside the DelCor Bootcamp at AMS Fest
  • A vendor-free, candid environment where association professionals can ask real questions and get honest feedback.
  • Bootcamp helps attendees feel more confident and prepared before engaging with vendors.
• Ecosystem and Context Diagrams
  • Attendees were asked to draw their current tech ecosystem to visualize integrations and ownership.
  • The process of creating the diagram was more valuable than the final product.
• Writing Better Requirements
  • Participants practiced writing user story-based requirements, often for the first time.
  • Emphasis on considering multiple perspectives: membership, finance, and member services.
• Understanding the Role of the Business Analyst
  • Associations don’t need to turn staff into BAs, but must understand the BA role.
  • Clear requirements are essential for selection, configuration, and adoption.
  • Most AMS issues stem from poor adoption, not poor functionality.
• Balancing Ecosystems vs. All-in-One Platforms
  • Discussion around whether to consolidate or diversify systems.
  • Risks of over-reliance on a single platform vs. complexity of multiple systems.
• Private Equity and Vendor Trust
  • Mergers and acquisitions are eroding trust in vendors and direct access to decision-makers is more difficult.
  • Associations must take ownership of training, documentation, and vendor relationships.
• Change Management and Adoption Fears
  • Some staff fear change and struggle with system transitions.
  • Bootcamp helps surface these concerns early in the process.
• Peer Learning and Community Support
  • AMS Fest’s value lies in shared experiences and peer advice.
  • One piece of advice from a peer can shift an entire selection strategy.
• Final Question: What’s Got You Worked Up?
  • Gretchen: Frustrated by the lack of payoff from private equity investment in platforms.
  • Niko: Wants more associations to engage in the conversation and learn from peers.