As we evaluate our technology ecosystem, I'd like to realign our focus and timeline for improving both our operational systems and member community experience.
Our current platform, Higher Logic, has served us well in providing structured discussion forums and peer interaction, but it no longer meets our evolving needs. At an annual cost of approximately $17,000, it offers limited flexibility, minimal integration with financial or CRM tools, and an interface that feels increasingly dated compared to modern community platforms.
We've found that social, conversational tools like Circle.so align much more closely with how our members naturally engage and collaborate. However, given our immediate operational priorities, I recommend we begin by addressing the administrative and CRM functions first, then evaluate the community platform transition as a second phase later this year.
Proposed Direction
Phase 1 – Strengthen AMS/CRM (Immediate Priority)
Explore and implement an affordable, streamlined AMS/CRM solution to manage:
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Membership renewals, billing, and dues tracking
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Sponsorship and affiliate management
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Event registration and reporting
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Email automation and communication tracking
This will create a stronger operational backbone and centralized member database that can later integrate with a new community platform.
Phase 2 – Community Platform Evaluation (Later in 2025)
Following AMS/CRM implementation, evaluate modern community platforms that offer a social, intuitive, and mobile-friendly member experience. Desired features include:
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Threaded discussions and searchable conversations
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Sub-groups by product, role, or region
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Resource libraries and direct messaging
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Mobile app or seamless mobile access
We can include Hivebrite in this next round of exploration, as it offers integrated engagement tools and may bridge both community and light AMS functions.
Next Steps
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Identify AMS/CRM candidates that fit our needs and budget (shortlist 2–3 options).
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Evaluate integration paths between the selected AMS/CRM and potential future community systems.
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Plan for phased implementation, prioritizing data integrity, automation, and member experience.
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Review community platform options mid-year, including Hivebrite, Circle, and others, to determine long-term fit.
Our goal is to transition thoughtfully-improving operations now while positioning 90 Minds for a modern, engaging, and connected member experience in the near future.
Thank you all for your continued leadership and thoughtful input as we navigate this important next step. I appreciate all feedback on this. Thanks!
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Anne Sawyer
Executive Director
90 Minds Inc.
Sunset Beach CA
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