Among Jeff De Cagna's predicted trends for associations in 2010 is this:

"The continued explosive growth in mobile technologies will continue to accelerate in the year ahead, challenging associations to rethink every aspect of how they relate to stakeholders, create and deliver value and perform work."

I just hope these technologies are used more appropriately in the coming year than they are right now.

There really is no reason for everybody to expect to instantly contact everybody else all of the time, wherever they are, regardless of what they are doing.

I don't want to talk to someone who is striding through a noisy airport, eating lunch with somebody else, or sitting on the toilet.

I'm not interested in somebody's immediate reaction to something. I'd rather hear about it after they've had time to give it adequate thought.

I don't need to check my bank balance while crossing a busy street.

And there is no reason for me to read email or check voicemail - or answer my phone - while loading groceries onto a conveyor belt for the cashier to scan.

Associations need to be aware of venues that can be used to more effectively reach members, prospects, and others with whom they desire relationships.

But they don't have to frantically lunge for every device or technique out of fear they'll miss something.

So, identify your audiences, know what they want from you and how they want it delivered, and then deliver it.

Keep abreast of new methods of work and communications so you'll know if something comes along that can help you better serve your members.

And don't tether yourself to gadgets that allow everybody to talk to you all of the time, wherever you are, regardless of what you are doing. It's not necessary.