Consolidating two competing trade associations into one stands right up there with negotiating a Middle East peace and American political debate: Parties often focus too much on what separates them than on what successful solution could grow from constructive collaboration.
It is this protectionist, defensive attitude that makes consolidation of two independently healthy associations almost impossible. Often they must wait until one or the other are financially broke which turns a consolidation of proud equals into a merger with one eating the other.
Whether they realize it or not, negotiators and voters in either association have four perspectives to consider in their decisions: Is this good for (1) our industry, (2) the members of our current organization, (3) our current organization, or (4) me personally? It's my opinion that these considerations are in the correct order. Ultimately if the results of any decision are not good for their industry, the supporting organization will fail as a trade association and may survive only as a club.
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