Preparing for a Future of Global Engagement Every viable organization has to look forward to its future; to anticipate the challenges that lie ahead; and to project the actions necessary to remain relevant and contemporary in a fast-changing world. This forward-looking approach is exactly what the American Welding Society (AWS), Miami, Fla., undertook when it outlined a Global Strategy in 2012. A document was developed that isolated global challenges for the next five years and what actions were needed to meet those challenges. This document provided a roadmap for the Society, but it wasn’t a rigid plan destined for obsolescence. Let’s face it, any plan that admits no modification is a bad plan, and in reality no one can absolutely predict the future. This plan was meant to be a living document whose adjustment along the way to unexpected curves or speed bumps was encouraged and put into action. Formulating the Strategy To keep that roadmap fresh and on track, the Society assembled a group of volunteers and staff to engage in two days of intense discussions that would formulate the next iteration of the Global Strategy. It was determined the next version should be a three-year plan rather than the previous five-year plan. Seeking Members’ Input These advisory meetings were not conducted in a vacuum. The discussions and results relied heavily on a Stakeholder survey sent to AWS members. This survey was conducted and tabulated by a nationally recognized independent third-party organization. The survey was sent to a select group that was representative of the broad spectrum of AWS membership. It was broken down to include individuals by job title or function, geographic location, and age. Although response was highest among domestic members, there was input from 10% of international The American Welding Society has prepared a Global Strategy for the next three years focusing on areas of importance isolated by a Stakeholders survey of its members BY ANDREW CULLISON 44 WELDING JOURNAL / DECEMBER 2016
Welding Journal | December 2016
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