The CSUEU like every union is at a point in time to evaluate its programs, resources and do some planning. The rich 75 year history of CSEA gives us a sound foundation to work from and some experience. However, the changing environment of the politics in California also presents new challenges as well as new opportunities.
The use of technology in the labor movement has been slowly increasing over the past two decades. Many unions now have secure websites with resources for activists and members only. We should assign some resources to the development of better on line support for our stewards and activists. There is an unlimited potential to convert some of our trainings to on line and provide more ongoing training.
What if the CSUEU developed a steward hotline where stewards could talk to someone live regarding a representation issue? Yes, there are cell phones, voicemail and email we already use. How much time is spent playing phone tag with voicemail over a simple question.
What if every staff member had a smartphone that had email and could access their email from anywhere? This could save some time in getting responses when CSUEU staff are on chapter visits and not at their computer.
What if we developed a system of videoconferencing where chapter leadership could meet with statewide leadership or staff to discuss local and state wide issues. The technology exists and some unions have started to utilize this to improve communications and save on travel.
These are just a few examples of "what ifs". I want to take the what ifs and make them a priority to improve our programs and service to the membership. Improving the contact with the membership and increasing their involvement in the union needs to be our goal. Other unions in the CSU already recognize our ability to turn out the members on planned events. We need to refine that ability and build on it.
If we can adapt and adopt many of the new tools into our programs we can be more effective. The challenge and costs associated with a statewide organization have stifled the CSUEU in the past. I think that we can take those challenges and apply technology to make us stronger.
