Long-Term Education Strategies at the Centre of Association Events’ Legacy

Estefanía Zárate Angarita (right photo), MARCOM specialist at Kenes Group, explains to us the 'cathedral-like thinking' expressed in Gaudí's vision that aims to draw a new inspiration for associations to leave a remarkable memory and strongly consolidate educational strategies in their events.

Have you been to La Sagrada Familia in Barcelona? Then you might recall how architect Antoni Gaudí started its construction in 1882 knowing that he would die before his masterpiece was completed. The legacy and impact of Gaudí’s influence in society and arts remain relevant 140 years later because of his great vision and ability to commit to a project that was much bigger than himself.

The story of Gaudí and La Sagrada Familia beautifully exemplifies the concept of “cathedral thinking” − which in the words of writer and historian Rick Antonson is all about prioritising a long-term view to make decisions that involve further generations and engaging in work that perhaps you won’t conclude. Does it sound familiar to you? If you’re in the associations sector, then probably.

The periodic event of an association is the focal point for their members; its ability to leave a legacy and have an impact within their industry or sector is crucial for moving associations forward. And although both “legacy” and “impact” are concepts that have been around in the events industry for decades, the way we measure them is permanently evolving. A key indicator of an event’s legacy is the development of relationships and friendships among participants while a key indicator for its impact is its levels of engagement and reach.

According to Diana van Brakel, Senior Manager Continuing Education at Kenes Group, “the education strategy of an association helps to look into the different formats and to implement activities based on a long-term plan. It is not just setting up an educational activity or an event, but it is all about the entire strategy behind it.” Consequently, when the major event of an association becomes part of a continuously ongoing educational programme, its main purpose shifts from networking, advancing knowledge and selling products to creating an entire ecosystem grounded on collaboration, innovation, creativity, research, and community building to improve skills, competencies, practices and ultimately outcomes.

These new strategies for associations’ legacy (the human aspect) and impact (the factual aspect) have a direct influence in the well-being of delegates, association membership levels, conference attendance, and talent retention within the industry. “It is very important that an association stays in touch with their target audience through the year by using online learning methods and different online learning formats. A knowledge hub cannot only ensure that the association can provide education to their members throughout the whole year, but it is also making it more interesting for non-members to become a part of an association and to improve their knowledge and skills”, adds van Brakel.

Such as Gaudí’s vision was the key to the legacy and impact of his masterpiece, cathedral thinking is what will give associations an approach to their core events to leave a remarkable memory and strongly consolidate their educational strategies.

ABOUT KENES GROUP

For over fifty years, Kenes Group has been creating success stories with associations around the world. They're experts in helping associations reach their true potential by strategically building awareness, loyalty and satisfaction among current and potential members, as well as stakeholders. They harness the power of community, strengthening your association’s brand through unforgettable experiences − fostering change, inspiring members, educating, and improving your association’s business performance.