We've all heard the adage: Do the same things the same wayrepeatedly, and you'll always get the same results. Well, here aretwo opportunities where we can deviate slightly from the routineand in return get some new results that may prove beneficial bothto your credit union's balance sheet and to your efforts atsustaining member loyalty.

I saw it reported recently in the New Jersey league's newsletterthat their member credit unions are giving thumbs up toimplementing a high-definition video teleconference network withinthe state. The HD video network would be used for training andeducational purposes, enabling members to save on time and travelexpenses by simply gathering at the nearest credit union that hasagreed to serve as a host site for the monitors, cameras andworkstation. Outside of physically touching the instructor ormeeting leader at the league's headquarters in Hightstown, thenetwork offers all the conveniences of attending the gathering inperson. What a great and innovative concept!

Now, suppose other leagues along with groups like NCUA, CUNA,NAFCU and CUES followed in the footsteps of the New Jersey league?Imagine the impact on the credit union system if all could haveaccess to such an HD video network. Imagine the money we'd allsave, not to mention the easy access we would all gain to theseorganizations and the services they provide. I'm putting this ideaat the top of my wish list for the way we memorialize the 2012observance of the International Year of Cooperatives.

A second idea addresses member loyalty. I recently joined acredit union serving Southern California and while I was at thebranch I couldn't help but notice all the unused space. Why not putpart of it to work, I thought.

Imagine if credit unions came with access to an exclusive“Members Lounge,” complete with wireless connectivity and a freecup of coffee. All you need to gain entry is your credit union ATMcard. I can see the value of Starbucks dropping rapidly! I can'tcount the number of times when I was on the road that I used aStarbucks as my mobile office, refreshing my spirits whileaccessing my e-mail and other Internet-based services. If a creditunion offered me such an exclusive amenity, I'd be all over it andyou would be too. Why stop at Starbucks if I can get WiFi and afree cup of coffee at my credit union? What a great way to connectwith members and nourish their credit union affiliation! And, afterreading the results of a recent survey conducted by MyCUsurvey.com,a new consumer survey firm for credit unions, the concept of aMembers Lounge might be just the ticket!

Of course, the secret for success for a Members Lounge is thatsuch an amenity would need to be commonplace, across the nation andamong all credit unions. But we're a cooperative system, are wenot?