March 2014 - Parks & Recreation - 10

P E R S P E C T I V E S A M E S S A G E F R O M N R PA' S L E A D E R S

Making New Connections
In 2010, we launched the " Networks, " NRPA's online communities. The goal was to create a way for members
to engage, and by all accounts, they have been successful. On any given day, the Networks are active with members sharing data, best practices, advice and support for professional challenges. NRPA has benefited from these
communities as well through magazine articles, ideas for new services, and perhaps most importantly, the ability
to brainstorm on emerging issues in real time.
We have also had our share of bumps along the way, including a complicated log-in process, slow connection
speeds and complex document depositories. You will be happy to know that beginning in late March, these challenges will be eliminated as we move to a new software provider. Not only will the Networks be easier to use, the
entire NRPA Connect platform will receive a facelift. Many features you have grown to
love will be enhanced, and you will have faster access, video posting capability, and new
ways to store and retrieve documents. The new site will also be mobile-optimized for use
on your smartphone and tablet.
In preparation of this change, we evaluated the Networks and how each was being
used. This led NRPA to remove Networks that no longer met the needs of the national
membership. At the same time, it allowed NRPA to respond to members by investigating new ways of providing meaningful engagement opportunities for members across
the nation. We have received positive feedback on creating groups based on agency size,
and we are excited to bring you this new opportunity. You will see these changes on the
new platform.
Interestingly, as the Networks grew in popularity, NRPA's member retention rate also improved. Eighty-six percent of members renew their membership, and we are very near 100
percent on our Premiere membership packages - an outstanding achievement in the association membership community. While we can't attribute this increase solely to the Networks, we do believe that as members have more opportunity to participate, their satisfaction in NRPA increases. Expanding opportunities for member participation will continue this month as we unveil a
new volunteer program. You will be notified of important volunteer opportunities giving you a chance to participate
in your association, expand your contacts and demonstrate your leadership abilities. These opportunities will vary in
the time commitment required, but each will have a deadline and a level of accountability.
But wait, there's more! This spring, we will begin delivering content to you based on your interests. If you shop
online with a retailer like Amazon, then you know what I am talking about. Based on your web activity, conference attendance, professional designations and certifications, we will tailor our communications and more
efficiently provide you with the information you need and want. For example, if you are certified and your certification is up for renewal, we can tailor the content you see online to provide the information you need to meet
the recertification requirements. These developments have been made with you in mind, so be sure to check out
the changes. We hope they make it easier for you to connect with other professionals in the field and make the
most of your membership.

BAR BAR A T ULIPAN E, C AE
President and CEO
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March 2014 - Parks & Recreation

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