Previously, staff overhead was high and access by members located in remote areas of the globe was reduced because of accessibility issues. Also, AIPN's services such as maintenance of memberships, organization and management of member conferences, maintaining a database of model contracts for members to use, a resume bank and a host government directory was labor intensive.

HexaGroup proposed an e-business approach to AIPN's new site and custom developed a rich content management system with an easy to use administrative interface on the back end. The new site is actually two sites in one: Visitors to www.aipn.org are able to explore the organization and join if they wish. AIPN members are welcomed to deeper content, specially designed to meet their specific needs.

HexaGroup custom built the entire site to allow AIPN to manage most of its business electronically to the point of a nearly paperless office. Using the flexible ecommerce module, AIPN staff members can now build online registration forms for the group's many conferences on the fly. Members have the power to manage their own accounts and renewals via credit card through a secure payment system. Members can also register for conferences, post resumes to a resume bank, leave messages for other members around the world, and purchase professional publications through a secure payment page. What's more, the e-business framework even simplifies the accounting for the organization making reports available online.

AIPN members are the top oil and gas attorneys in the world: HexaGroup built a unique model contract application for the new site that allows a team of attorneys, operating anywhere in the world, to participate and contribute to the development of new contracts. This has proven to be a powerful tool for the group. The site's model contract database service is now digital and accessible to members upon sign-in. A few of the contracts are also available to non-members.

HexaGroup custom designed the content management system (CMS) to allow AIPN staff to update the site when and with what they wish through an easy to understand administrative interface. This allows the organization freedom to add and remove content, including images, control pricing of events, membership dues, and model contracts rather than wait for an outside provider to re-program site content.

The site is a work in progress. AIPN and HexaGroup are diligent in patrolling the site and devising strategies to reduce membership frustration and boost service.

Non-profits by necessity pay very close attention to their bottom line. Technological solutions to organizational issues are sometimes perceived as costly when in actuality, when done correctly, they are actually huge money savers. AIPN's transition to an e-business format is a strong case in point. Instead of pouring money and time into inefficient processes, AIPN staff can now focus on its membership's needs in a way that promotes grown while at the same time saves precious time and money.