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Recent Articles,Insights, Analysis
Association Software Selection
Independent software selection consulting for association executives. SmartThoughts provides objective guidance through every technology decision—from requirements gathering and vendor matching to RFP management and contract negotiation. Our consultants help Executive Directors, CIOs, and Deputy Directors navigate AMS selection, advocacy platforms, fundraising software, and integrated technology stacks. Get unbiased analysis, verified vendor comparisons, and strategic implementation planning—all
What Now? The Sinking Feeling When You're Handed the AMS Selection Project
Just handed the AMS selection project? Stop panic-searching vendors. Use this 48-hour strategic action plan to establish governance, define requirements, and classify your tier before wasting months on the wrong platforms.
Enhance Association Operations with Nonprofit Data Quality Focused Consulting
Running a nonprofit association is no small feat. You juggle mission-driven goals, limited resources, and a mountain of data that can either be your greatest asset or your biggest headache. If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed by the sheer volume of information your team manages daily, you’re not alone. That’s where nonprofit data quality consulting steps in to save the day. Let me share some insights from my years working with associations across the country. We’re not from the b
The Complete AMS RFP Checklist: 100 Must-Ask Questions for Association Executives
Get a free, no-obligation expert review of your Association Management System RFP within 48 hours. Independent AMS consultants help you avoid costly mistakes, identify gaps, and find the perfect fit for your association. Submit now.
Association Executives: The Complete AMS Selection Methodology 2025 Guide
7-stage AMS selection methodology proven through 200+ implementations. Achieve 78% satisfaction vs 43% informal processes. Expert guide for Executive Directors.
Association Executives: How to Get Board Approval for AMS Investment
Get your AMS investment approved. Proven 5-part framework with ROI models, objection handling, and board presentation templates for $50K-$500K decisions.
Why Expert Software Guidance Is Needed For Choosing the Right Software
Stop struggling to choose the right AMS/CRM. Learn why expert software guidance is crucial for associations and follow our 7-step approach to confidently select technology that fits your mission and budget. Avoid common pitfalls now!
RFP Evolution: Association Software Selection Strategy for 2025
The Evolution of the RFP: Why Your Association’s Software Selection Needs a Strategic Overhaul in 2025 Howdy, I’m your expert Technology Advisor, and I've spent over twenty years right here in the Texas and Southwest association community. I've witnessed the evolution of the RFP from a necessary evil to its current, often dysfunctional state. Years ago, we titled an article, "RFPs Suck Software Nonprofits," and today, I need to express the deeper reality: The traditional RFP
Why Association Software Projects Fail in 2025: Executive Guide to Technology Success
We share some of the reasons we have discovered over the reasons which tend to be the tipping point for many to drop kick their AMS.
Martus Solutions Software Review
Comprehensive Martus Solutions review for associations. Expert analysis of budgeting features, pricing, peer reviews, and ecosystem fit for mission-driven orgs.
The Tech Tide is Turning: Don't Just Change Boats—Chart a New Course for Your Association
The Tech Tide is Turning: Don't Just Change Boats—Chart a New Course for Your Association. association executives: The tech tide demands more than an upgrade. Discover why your AMS decision is a strategic imperative. Leverage 20+ years of insight to navigate AI, integrated ecosystems, & data for member value, retention, & revenue.
Know Your AMS Tier Classification for Technology Success
Explore AMS tier classification for technology success. Discover how AMS tier classification ensures your association's operational efficiency.
Beyond the Star Ratings: Why Association Software Reviews Fail
Association executives need strategic guidance, not biased online software reviews. Learn how to navigate AMS selection in 2025, avoiding AI-amplified bias and focusing on mission alignment. Agnostic expert advice is key.
Best Nonprofit Software Reviews for The Best Decisions
Picking software can be tough, learn the keys to finding your needle in a haystack.
Rhythm Software AMS Review 2025 for Association Executives
Rhythm Software AMS review for association executives: features, Tier II pricing, peer reviews, and modern cloud-native platform analysis from SmartThoughts.
Association Software Expectations vs Reality
Why association software disappoints: The 40,000x gap between consumer tech investments and association budgets. Learn to set realistic expectations that succeed.
Why Your Association's Tech Partner Matters More Than the Technology
In this fast-paced AI world, the fact remains that people and partners matter in the technology world.
How Do Associations Find Reliable Software Guidance in 2025?
Reliable software guidance isn't a luxury. It's essential. Check out how to find reliable guidance in 2025.
Finding the Best Software for Your Association: A Strategic Approach
Stop letting generic "best software" rankings drive your association's technology decisions—Check out why this is a faulty approach.
ToucanTech AMS Software Review: Association Executives Guide
An unbiased review of ToucanTech AMS for Association executives to start their search.
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