In the September issue on this page, I previewed the debut of the redesigned Rotary.org, promising more articles, more photos, and more video. And thanks to the tireless work of many, many people here at RI headquarters, most notably the Web staff and Web manager David Schober, the site launched on schedule in October. Judging by the tremendous increase in the number of visitors, the new Rotary.org has been very well received by the majority of Rotarians. Of course, both David and I get phone calls and e-mails every day from Rotarians politely suggesting changes and improvements, but most of you are checking out many of the new features the site offers and responding positively. We’ve received an especially favorable reaction to our expanded news section and the enhanced capabilities and content of the eight language sites.

In this month’s In Focus section, which starts on page 31, we detail many of the giant steps in technology taken by both Rotary International (as a service to our clubs and members) and Rotary clubs to attract new members, reduce costs, and improve efficiency. More and more clubs are using technology – videoconferencing, wikis, RSS feeds, podcasting, blogging – to stay in touch with each other.

How does the change in digital technology affect The Rotarian? Our magazine is as vital and relevant as ever, but now it fits into a broader communications strategy. We need to better manage the flow of information to our members to ensure that the Rotary message is being delivered consistently and effectively to all of our media touch points. We’re working hard here at the magazine, and throughout the Communications Division, to find the best and most effective ways to distribute Rotary content via print, video, and the Internet.

As an organization of successful international businesspeople, we need our Web site to be integrated, compelling, and state-of-the-art. In short, a communications vehicle that all 1.2 million members can use and take pride in. We’ve already taken our first huge step. My next promise is that we’ll listen to all of your comments and make improvements and enhancements on a regular basis.