Editor’s note: The article below encapsulates a sponsored research project titled, Innovation for a New Era, conducted by Patrick Deren, Matthew Grant and myself, that was completed prior to the Covid-19 pandemic. This project was underwritten by Arena Solutions, a Foster City, California software purveyor that helps companies streamline product development. If you are in charge of creating new products...

As America's trade and professional associations enter the new decade, many are facing the same competitive market forces that bedevil their members. Yet often they lack the resources or forward thinking ability to embrace rapidly developing trends, and turn them to advantage. Some associations are thinking ahead of the curve -- and taking action. They are using the annual retreat...