Technology and you: .NET and the future of AMS systems.

Why .NET technology? In my career as a dedicated IT professional, I have watched the evolution of Association Management Systems (AMS) from host-based mini computer systems, to systems based on the Disk Operating System (DOS), to Windows client-server systems and now, systems based on the Web Services model as embodied in .NET (pronounced dot net) from Microsoft. Underscoring this trend is the need for more flexible, and ultimately, more usable technology solutions. Our research and analysis confirm .NET as the platform for building viable applications for years to come. Leading companies like SAP, PeopleSoft, and Siebel are rapidly reengineering their applications using .NET technology. Widespread independent analyses, reviews, and developer comments suggest that .NET is not just "hype" from Microsoft but a significant new way of thinking about application development. So, the choice for associations is clear to me: adopt .NET now or later. Any other architecture will have a short shelf life.

There are two popular but distinct methods of developing .NET applications: thin client (browser-based) and fat client (Smart Windows-based). The crucial difference is deployment. A thin client application allows for hassle-free access from any Internet-connected PC anytime, anywhere. A fat client application requires installation of runtime files on the workstation. This makes maintenance and application updating resource intensive when managing multiple desktops since every workstation requires a new download for every upgrade. Furthermore, firewalls may restrict fat client access. In light of these challenges it is advisable to undertake all new development based on the thin client model.

At the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA), moving web-based applications from concept to launch quickly is very important. We have numerous projects and limited IT resources. One of the biggest benefits of .NET is the simplicity of making new services available directly to our members. In a typical client server environment, the "back office" and the Web are always two distinct applications that are painful to integrate and maintain. Since it is all on the web, .NET facilitates the creation of essentially one interface template to support the staff and external customers. Other than the "branding," the customer's experience and the staff's are essentially the same and our integration and support costs are drastically lower.

We've been working with Avectra for the past few years so the decision to move forward with their .NET product, netFORUM, was logical. The fact that they built it from the ground up correctly - with a "thin" client architecture, a commitment to making it attractive and easy to use, and a very flexible architecture - made the move even more compelling. But equally important is the value of trust in our business relationship with Avectra. It's a huge thing to me. Avectra consistently delivers reliable solutions and service. After almost 10 years with ASHA, I'm convinced netFORUM and Avectra will position our association to quickly respond to opportunities and challenges and will enable us to grow into the future.