SECRETARY-TREASURER’S REPORT
Communication is the Key to Success!
We have implemented many new technological advancements in our administration. We realize more than ever, that communication is vital to remain viable and powerful in today’s workforce.
You may have heard it said that data just may be the new utility. This past year, the National Office introduced a new database, UnionAXS, to improve efficiencies, enhance our communication methods, and make doing business easier. We are now prepared to expand the project and make these platforms available to each local union.
UnionAXS is the database that we have built to house the following information in one spot: local specific information, bylaws, member information, employer identification, job site locations, Congressional Districts, utility sector identification, contracts, history of wage increases, and up-to-date local officer information.
One valuable tool is the communication platform that will allow local leadership to communicate with the membership via email and, ultimately, other social media platforms. This feature is advantageous when locals want to mobilize members for reasons such as notifications of meetings, elections, contractual issues, strikes or work stoppages. Communication can also be valuable for community-related issues or Get Out The Vote campaigns. It always comes back to member-to-member conversations as we share information.
In addition to UnionAXS, we are also now prepared to roll out the new UWUA website template that we will be using for national organizing drives and that can be utilized by our locals. We heard loud and clear that our locals wanted a website template that was cost effective. We’ve seen too many vendors gouge our locals for website design.
These two products were specifically built for application by the National and our local unions. A major goal was to drive down any cost to the locals. Therefore, we have also negotiated a three-way participation agreement with the vendor to ensure significant cost savings to any of our locals that want to implement different aspects of the database and/or website.
Below are some highlights of each project:
Database
UnionAXS is a cloud-based membership management software that was developed specifically for UWUA locals. The goal of the software is to help minimize the amount of time spent on tracking membership information, communicating with members, looking for information and submitting per capita payments.
• Cloud Based and Secure
> No need for on-site servers or desktop applications. Determine access levels for staff that can be accessed from anywhere.
> Complete audit trails by user.
• Membership Portal
> Record member information, dues payments and status.
> Easily update information and run reports.
• Bulk Membership Updates
> Update dues payments, statuses and member information in a few clicks.
• Automated Email Platform
> Filter and choose the members to contact, and send email directly from the platform.
• Automated Per Capita Submission
> Submit per capita reports in a few clicks.
Website
Our vendor will transition a local’s current website or install a new website with 10 custom UWUA professionally designed pages. These pages are designed to be mobile friendly, secure and hosted to minimize the work necessary by your local. In as little as a month, you will have a professional and optimized website to showcase the work you do on a daily basis.
What is included?
• Professional Transition or Installation
• 10 Template Pages to Choose From
> Up to 50 subpages
> Mobile optimized
• Photo Gallery
• Social Media Integration
• News Feed and Blog
• Monthly Hosting (99.9% uptime)
• Customizing Available as Necessary for Individual Locals
We are now prepared to share these platforms with each local. Please contact me at the national office for pricing (if required), details and implementation.