On-Line Directories
 

On-line membership directories can be either static, in other words just a list of names, or they can be interactive with query capabilities. Many associations sites have a static list which requires the HTML page to be edited every time changes are made. A better approach is to have a page which is created dynamically from a database which can be either updated through a back-door or on-line by the member themselves.

One such example is for the CPRS (The Canadian Public Relations Society), where, in the members only section, visitors to the association's site can work interactively to build a list of members for display across the country through a lookup screen (see following example):

The options on this screen allow the use to specify the generation based on local society membership or by professional classification, or both. If you remember the person worked for "Bell North" something or other, you can specify that the search be based on company name then enter the key words and as list of all members matching that criteria will appear. Well, almost, as this particular client has built into their system that members can opt out of inclusion of either the on-line or printed directory, both of which are driven by settings in the database they maintain.

Once the "Create List" button is pressed a, an alphabetically sorted list will appear of current members that meet the criteria. The "current members" requirement is another reason why members will want to keep their membership up-to-date, as unlike printed directories, individuals will fall off of this list if their membership lapses. And, unlike printed documents, error, omissions and changes can be update to the database quickly either through a back door by the admin staff or if built in, but the member themselves.

It's time to think about what services and/or lists you might want to offer your members though your web-site.