Earlier this year, CRN surveyed our membership to determine what we are doing well and where you want us to improve. For the next several months, each issue of The Report will update you on what you told us, and what steps CRN is taking to respond to your direction.
This week's comments:
Quick turn around when responding to members or disseminating information.
CRN members told us they appreciate the responsiveness of CRN staff to member inquiries/requests and CRN’s efficiency in getting communications out/informing members about new studies, changing regulations or negative media report. One member stated, “They’re there for us when we need them and you can reach out to them.”
What we’re doing to get even better:
CRN is improving its Rapid Response program; this year we have already issued more than a dozen Media Alerts to members on new studies examining everything from vitamins B and D to probiotics and omega 3s. We are reviewing who we send these announcements to increase our efficiency and be sure all the right people in our member companies get these communications. Our membership department also has been verifying all our committee lists with our Executive Contacts to be sure every member is represented on all our committees. It’s the best way to get all the CRN information and analysis that’s relevant to you.
Demonstrate that CRN understands the needs of various sized businesses within the industry, not just large businesses.
CRN’s Membership Committee brought this concern to the attention of the Board and CRN staff with a recommendation for more programs to address the needs of smaller companies and start ups, like the need for training in the basics of regulations and consultations with CRN staff to give members more access to their expertise. Unlike larger companies, small and new companies do not have large, experienced regulatory staff.
What we’re doing to get even better:
On October 10 at 2 pm EDT, CRN will host a webinar Supplement Regulation 101. This basic-level webinar will give participants a broad understanding of how supplements are regulated—delivered by top regulatory experts in an easy-to-follow format ideal for non-regulatory employees. This webinar is designed for executives at companies of all sizes who seek a deeper understanding of the basics. CRN staff are also fielding more inquiries from members on issues of toxicology, label compliance, claim substantiation, new product development and more. When matters get more complex, we can recommend just the right consultant or outside counsel from our extensive roster of Associate members. We’re listening!
To make this an ongoing conversation, please tell us additional areas on which you want CRN to focus. Send your thoughts to:
Carl Hyland Senior Director, Membership Development, chyland@crnusa.org