When the COVID-19 pandemic disrupted in-person events across the country, many associations were forced to make difficult decisions about how to move forward. For the Indiana Society of Professional Land Surveyors (ISPLS), their annual convention was a major source of both member engagement and revenue, accounting for nearly half of their annual budget. With stakes this high, a new path forward was urgently needed.
A Critical Turning Point
In January 2021, with just four to five weeks’ notice, the ISPLS convention venue released them from their contract due to pandemic concerns. Suddenly, ISPLS faced the possibility of canceling their largest event of the year. But thanks to the knowledge-sharing and collaborative environment within RGI, the team was already familiar with how other clients had successfully transitioned to virtual events.
With a ready-to-execute project plan, ISPLS and RGI quickly pivoted. The team worked together to transform the in-person convention into a virtual experience that matched the attendance and impact of their traditional events.
From Alternative Solution to Long-Term Strategy
The first virtual conference exceeded expectations by achieving impressive profitability. In fact, the success of the event sparked a lasting change in the ISPLS approach to member engagement and continuing education.
ISPLS has since adopted a hybrid model, hosting an in-person conference annually while also offering a virtual version. While virtual attendance has naturally decreased from its pandemic peak, the events continue to draw strong participation, especially from professionals who may not have attended in person.
By offering virtual options, ISPLS now serves licensed land surveyors across the state who need continuing education credits but may not be able to travel to the event. Individuals who had little to no prior involvement with the organization are now part of the ISPLS community.
A Win for Accessibility, Engagement, and Revenue
What started as a crisis quickly became an opportunity. With RGI’s support, ISPLS not only salvaged their event during a difficult time but created a sustainable, inclusive model that continues to provide value to members year after year.
Their success illustrates the power of agility, collaboration, and innovation, which are core values that drive everything we do at RGI.
Click here to watch a video of Brian Lewis, CAE, CVA sharing this success story.
Brian Lewis, CAE, CVA
Brian Lewis joined RGI in 2011 and serves as Executive Director, bringing expertise in membership development, data management, and strategic planning. A Certified Association Executive (CAE) with more than 15 years in association management, Brian is known for implementing innovative strategies that help associations grow and thrive. A graduate of Indiana University–Purdue University Indianapolis with a bachelor’s degree in economics, Brian has worked with industries ranging from mortgage brokerage and noise control engineering to environmental consulting and professional land surveying. Outside of work, Brian is an active volunteer in his community and within the Masonic Fraternity, where he has served in several leadership roles.