We've all heard the adage: Do the same things the same way repeatedly, and you'll always get the same results. Well, here are two opportunities where we can deviate slightly from the routine and in return get some new results that may prove beneficial both to your credit union's balance sheet and to your efforts at sustaining member loyalty.

I saw it reported recently in the New Jersey league's newsletter that their member credit unions are giving thumbs up to implementing a high-definition video teleconference network within the state. The HD video network would be used for training and educational purposes, enabling members to save on time and travel expenses by simply gathering at the nearest credit union that has agreed to serve as a host site for the monitors, cameras and workstation. Outside of physically touching the instructor or meeting leader at the league's headquarters in Hightstown, the network offers all the conveniences of attending the gathering in person. 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 have access to such an HD video network. Imagine the money we'd all save, not to mention the easy access we would all gain to these organizations and the services they provide. I'm putting this idea at the top of my wish list for the way we memorialize the 2012 observance of the International Year of Cooperatives.