KA3DRR (Scot): American Radio Relay League Membership Benefits

Benefit Screenshot One

Benefit Screenshot Two

My goal is an examination of my benefits as a paid member with a stake in the success of the only organization designed to represent Amateur Radio operators on this side of the Atlantic.

On the other hand, my feedback method is a direct result of 21st Century communications technology through social media networks like Blogger, Twitter, and Google+. Its convenience far exceeds that of the current organizational structure, for one; I'm reaching both members and non-members alike in addition; a broader audience as well.

The context of benefit in the broadest sense of the word is defined as an advantage or profit gained from something.

My think about question for today is, "What is the advantage of membership in the American Radio Relay League?"

List of Membership Services:

1. Members-Only Web Services.
2. Technical Information Services.
3. Outgoing QSL Services.
4. Amateur Radio Emergency Service.
5. ARRL Lab Services.
6. ARES Services and Support.
7. Public Information Services/Coordination.

List of Benefits:

1. Membership Discounts and Affinity Benefits.
2. Ham Radio Equipment Insurance Plan.
3. Credit Card.

Programs:

1. Volunteer Examiner Coordinator Program.
2. Legislative Advocacy Programs.

In contrast, I'm not clear on the following as aligned as a benefit, service, or program?

1. Continuing Education.
2. ARRL as an Advocate.
3. Regulatory Information Branch.
4. Public Relations for Amateur Radio.
5. ARRL Field Organization.
6. ARRL sponsored contests.
7. Operating awards.
8. Local clubs.
9. Hamfests and Conventions.
10. Logbook of the World.
11. Publications and Apparel.
12. Ham Radio Kits.
13. Discounted Materials for Instructors.
14. DX-pedition Calendars, Information, and Support.
15. Club Support.
16. Official Observer/Official Observer Coordinator.
17. Ham Radio Training.
18. Operator Training.
19. Morse Code Training/Practice.
20. Amateur Radio Legal References.

I'm asking the question to what degree is my representative organization executing on its benefits, services, or programs as a value proposition for those younger than 50 years of age? I'm also asking as a value proposition whether or not the benefits are meaningful as an advantage.

My purpose, given a Second Century Campaign is underway at League Headquarters, is an examination of benefits as aligned with the League's Second Century Vision.

I believe, those #hamr members whom are populating social media communication channels like YouTube, Twitter, Facebook, and Google+ are actively engaged in shaping a new organizational structure or adapting the old with the new.

I also believe, the digital organizational structure of the 21st Century is not accounted for, and the benefits of yesterday, may not reflect the wants or desires of the next generation.

73 from the shackadelic near the beach.