History & Values
Dear Association Friends, Colleagues, Current and Former Clients, and Partners,
2024 marks the 25th anniversary of the founding of Association Laboratory.
I am thrilled to reflect on the company’s journey since 1999, when I felt inspired to establish a company that would bring forth fact-based advice, critical thinking, and creative insights, much like the strategy firms that served the for-profit sector.
Before Association Laboratory, I felt constricted by a company culture that was slow and too bureaucratic. It focused on the hours worked, not outcomes achieved.
In addition, the consultants I hired as an association executive told me what they did at their last job instead of helping me look at my problem dispassionately or sharing what worked or didn’t.
Everything was opinion-driven.
My vision was to help association leaders make better decisions using the highest quality information and practical strategic insights and collaborating with them, not reporting to them.
Today, I am proud that Association Laboratory has become an award-winning organization with an award-winning team, serving leading state, national, and global associations. From strategic planning to membership, and from education to DEI and everything in between, we have had the privilege of helping industry leaders deal with some of the most complex strategic questions.
One of the cornerstones of our success has been our steadfast commitment to several guiding principles:
- Personal Integrity – At Association Laboratory, personal integrity isn't just a buzzword; it's the lifeblood of our vibrant culture. We approach every challenge with a personable and fun spirit, ensuring that collaboration takes center stage. Our team is built on a foundation of honesty. While we're unafraid to voice differing opinions, we always do so respectfully, ensuring that disagreements never overshadow the fun we find in our work.
- Company Integrity – Association Laboratory is committed to delivering on our promises, understanding that we haven't genuinely succeeded if we haven't addressed your concerns. Our relationship with clients, customers, and partners goes beyond mere transactions; we don’t nickel and dime folks, aiming instead to establish ourselves as trusted partners. Our approach is objective and analytical, constantly sharpened by critical thinking. We see ourselves as partners and peers in all our relationships, always valuing mutual respect.
- Industry Respect – Finally, At Association Laboratory, we're not just observers of our profession and industry but active participants and contributors. We respect the rich history of our profession and the indelible legacies left by association professionals and volunteer leaders. We understand the importance of connections and take pride in counseling and supporting the dedicated individuals who drive our profession forward. Our commitment is to support the growth of this community. We celebrate the legacy and significance of the association industry, understanding its unique challenges and opportunities.
Association Laboratory has been purposefully built to be an effective partner, standing alongside association leaders to help them comprehend complex issues and make informed strategic decisions.
We are deeply committed to preserving the original vision upon which this company was founded and remaining true to the guiding principles that have shaped our success.
As we embark on the next chapter of our journey, I am optimistic that our continued dedication to these principles will enable us to assist associations in developing successful and sustainable strategies for many years.
We eagerly look forward to the opportunity to work with you, collaborating closely to achieve your goals and aspirations.
Warm regards,
