10/17/2025

Relationship Building Is the New Innovation for Future-proofing Association Meetings

Human connection is your competitive advantage

In an era where technology, automation and AI dominate association event planning and strategic meeting planning conversations, the most forward-thinking innovation for associations may be the oldest tool in the book: genuine human connection. For associations navigating economic uncertainty, political shifts and an increasingly competitive membership landscape, trusted relationships — with venues, suppliers, Global Sales Organizations (GSOs) and planners — are proving to be the most reliable safeguard against disruption. Technology can deliver speed and efficiency, but relationships deliver flexibility, insight and trust.

Why Relationships and Technology Work Best Together

Over the past decade, sourcing platforms like Cvent and Hopskip have transformed how planners and suppliers connect, allowing faster responses, streamlined RFPs and access to a broader range of options. These meeting planner tools are invaluable for efficiency, but they are at their best when paired with the human touch.

Technical tools cannot capture the nuance of an association’s vision, culture or strategic goals. Without personal dialogue, critical details — like a past attendee experience or a board member’s specific needs — get lost. The result? Missed opportunities, mismatched venues, and overlooked creative solutions. A well-crafted RFP is powerful, but a follow-up conversation can bring it to life.

Please select this link to read the complete article from ASAE’s Center for Association Leadership.