This article is the third in a series outlining how associations can play a greater role in the professional development of their members and why promoting problem solving as their next core competency can lead to a sustainable competitive advantage. (Read part one and part two.)

Associations are typically comprised of three core competencies:

• Advocacy — representing the interests of members in policy and regulatory matters
• Leadership development — cultivating the leadership skills of members to help them advance in their professions
• Professional development — offering formal education and certification programs that enhance members’ knowledge, skills, abilities, and career growth

While this triad represents a compelling value proposition, there’s one competency associations lack which has the potential to surpass the others: problem solving.

Have you ever paused to consider a significant problem that your association has successfully solved? It’s a challenging question—and one that many association executives I’ve spoken with find themselves reflecting on too.

Problem solving is the process of identifying a challenge or issue, analyzing it, and finding effective solutions to resolve it. It’s considered a form of informal learning.

Problem solving involves critical thinking, creativity, and decision making to overcome obstacles and achieve a desired outcome. When individuals or organizations engage in problem solving, they are actively analyzing situations, identifying gaps, testing potential solutions, and reflecting on outcomes—processes that involve acquiring new knowledge or applying existing knowledge in new ways.

In addition, problem solving often leads to deeper understanding, improved skills, and adaptation to new challenges, which are key aspects of learning. It also enhances one’s ability to address future problems more effectively, making problem solving an ongoing developmental activity.

Despite these advantages, none of the traditional core competencies of associations focus explicitly on problem solving. But by doing so, associations benefit in a number of ways:

• Increased member value. By addressing members’ challenges, associations demonstrate their relevance and commitment, enhancing member satisfaction and loyalty.
• Enhanced reputation. Associations known for effective problem solving can strengthen their reputation as industry leaders and trusted resources, attracting more members and stakeholders.
• Stronger community engagement. Actively solving problems fosters a sense of community among members, encouraging collaboration and participation, which can lead to higher engagement levels.
• Innovation and adaptation. Problem solving encourages creative thinking and innovation, allowing associations to adapt to changes in the industry and remain competitive.
• Improved resources and services. By identifying and addressing key issues, associations can develop targeted programs, resources, and services that meet the evolving needs of their members.
• Strategic partnerships. Problem-solving initiatives can lead to collaborations with other organizations, stakeholders, or experts, expanding the association’s reach and influence.
• Sustainable growth. By continuously addressing challenges and providing solutions, associations can foster long-term growth and stability, ensuring their continued relevance in their respective fields.

Overall, associations that prioritize problem solving not only enhance their effectiveness but also create a more supportive and valuable environment for their members.

For more effective problem solving, follow this simple five-step process:

• Problem identification. Clearly define and understand the problem. Ensure the root cause is identified, not just the symptoms. Consider the perspectives and needs of all stakeholders involved or affected by the problem.
• Generate solutions. Brainstorm possible solutions. Creativity is essential here to consider both conventional and unconventional ideas.
• Evaluate solutions. Assess the feasibility, risks, and potential outcomes of each solution. This includes costs, time, resources, and impact. Select the best solution based on your evaluation criteria. Consider short-term and long-term effects.
• Action planning. Develop a plan to implement the chosen solution. This includes allocating resources, setting timelines, and assigning responsibilities.
• Monitor and adjust. Once the solution is implemented, monitor its progress to ensure it’s solving the problem. Be ready to adjust if new challenges arise. Review the process to identify any lessons learned for future problem-solving efforts. 

The final article in this series explains how communities of practice (CoPs) offer a powerful way to embed problem solving into an association's culture. By fostering collaboration, innovation, and shared expertise, CoPs can address challenges like growth and member engagement more effectively than with traditional methods.