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ISPA cites progress on all 7 strategic goals

By David Perry -- Furniture Today, April 18, 2004

INDIANAPOLIS — The International Sleep Products Assn. detailed its progress in meeting its seven strategic objectives in a report issued at the ISPA Expo here.

The bedding industry's trade association cited achievements in relation to all seven goals, which are designed to make ISPA a stronger and more effective organization.

In his state-of-the-industry address, Richard Diamonstein, ISPA's chairman, said that 2003 was "a watershed year" for the association. The strategic planning process has given ISPA "a roadmap of success," he said.

The process, led by Spring Air licensee Joe Carman IV, required strong member involvement, follow through and performance, Diamonstein said. The results, he noted, "have been extraordinarily positive."

The strategic planning process saw more than 250 ISPA members participate directly in the development of a new strategic plan initiated by the ISPA board. That plan ensures that ISPA "is focused on what's important to you and your company," ISPA said in its report to the membership.

The first of the seven strategic goals is to internalize the ongoing strategic planning process. How is ISPA doing on that?

"Implementation of the Strategic Plan is evident across all of ISPA's programs and services, creating a more favorable business environment for both your company and the industry," ISPA said.

Here's a look at the six other strategic goals, and some of ISPA's assessments of how it is doing:

Strengthen and refocus the communications program. "ISPA transformed its communications functions in 2003 to provide you with the most current and comprehensive industry and association news." An all-new Web site, www.sleepproducts.org, was launched in June with special members-only content. And a Communications Council was formed to deliver timely and consistent information.
Enhance the industry's image. "The Better Sleep Council merged with ISPA in 2003 and launched its own innovative Web site — www.bettersleep.org — to better inform consumers and the press about the importance of mattresses to sleep, health and quality of life." A proactive consumer education campaign has been integrated with ongoing research to assist consumers with mattress evaluation, purchase and replacement.
Influence government actions to achieve industry policies. "The Sleep Products Safety Council, an ISPA affiliate, has been the leading advocate at the federal and state levels for the development of an effective science-based solution to the mattress flammability issue." Through its continuing work with the California Bureau of Home Furnishings and the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, ISPA is "well positioned to both influence flammability standards, such as July's modified TB603 Flammability Standard (the new California standard), and to resolve critical issues."

ISPA also noted that a Government Relations Committee was formed to enhance ISPA's ability to effectively represent the industry's positions on key priorities. And it said its relationship with the National Assn. of Manufacturers and other business groups increases the industry's effectiveness with government agencies.

Provide and communicate strong member value propositions. "ISPA's Bedding Center at Interzum in Cologne, Germany, and its 2003 Industry Conference were two successful events created with member satisfaction in mind, bringing timely business-focused topics to the membership."
Build and maintain effective ISPA governance, responsive to member needs and priorities. ISPA provided "relevant business information" at its Industry Conference. The password-protected information on ISPA's Web site provides members with "the most current industry news, statistics, publications and more." Also, ISPA adopted Conflict of Interest Guidelines for its members and staff.
Maintain fiscal strength, professional excellence and accountability to members. "A number of accounting and financial enhancements have been instituted to improve reporting and accountability to members."

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