NYSAFC Membership Database System – We Are Still Learning

By NYSAFC Executive Director Jerry DeLuca

As most of our members are aware, over the last year, NYSAFC implemented a new website followed by an online membership database and association management system. This system is allowing us to do many new things, such as offering online registration for some classes and trainings, accepting online credit card payments, and issuing dues notices electronically. When any association implements a new database, there is going to be a learning curve for both the staff and members using the system. We are experiencing that learning curve.

Many of you received invoices and paid your annual membership dues electronically, and I sincerely thank you for that. Electronic invoicing and payment saves NYSAFC significant money in postage and handling. This money can be spent on other causes, such as training and programs.

When we began the dues invoicing process for 2018, we knew that there would be a significant portion of our membership that would need or prefer paper invoices. We made the provision for that and they were mailed in early January. Unfortunately, due to a glitch in our system, some members whose dues had already been paid received invoices stating that they were past due. When their payments were received, the system did not update their expiration date to 2018 and they were sent another invoice. For this, I truly apologize.

As we move forward and continue to work within the system, our Membership Coordinator Brian Forte, myself, and the entire NYSAFC team will work with our vendor to resolve any issues and make changes and improvements to the system so that we can better serve you.

To those NYSAFC Bugle readers that are members, thank you. Without the support of our members, NYSAFC could not provide the programs, training, and advocacy that we do. Our whole team continues to look for ways to improve our service to you, and if you have any suggestions, please contact me by email or by calling (800) 676-3473.