Discussion panel hosted by Reggie Henry, CTO, ASAE & The Center for Association Leadership, Jeff De Cagna, Chief Strategist and Founder, Principled Innovation, Jim Kelly, CEO, Syscom Services, Thomas McNamee, Chief Software Architect, Results Direct, and Richard Pulliam, CEO, myAmphi Ltd.

The first session is focused on defining what Web 2.0 is and how it can impact and influence the association world especially from the perspective of creating member value. The session started off with each of the panelists offering “opening salvos” defending why they felt the audience should care about Web 2.0 and what it means to them.

Jeff defined it as the second phase of the web. Additionally, he feels that we if we had a similar naming structure for the association world we would be at Association 5.0 because of the long history of associations. It is perhaps the single greatest opportunity for associations to innovate and provide value.

Jim suggested that it is the responsibility of associations to offer value and stay relevant. Need to begin looking at building and gaining the trust and value for Gen-Y.

Richard questioned the existence or relevance of generational differences in the tone of his comment (which frustrated me) but did offer a few other relevant comments surrounding the value of the social dynamics created by the technology by fostering collaboration and involvement.

Finally, Tom offered that despite he concern that technology would be the beginning of the end for associations, it has actually helped make associations more relevant and stronger. However it has challenged the position of the association as the guardian of proprietary knowledge. Finally, he raised the question of what changes must be made by associations to create value and stay relevant.