Since 1939, The Institute of Food Technologists (IFT) has been advancing the science of food and its application across the global food system by creating a dynamic forum where individuals from more than 90 countries can collaborate, learn, and grow, transforming scientific knowledge into innovative solutions for the benefit of people around the world.

IFT partnered with Leader Networks to help it drive member value and participation.

IFT had a moderately active online community but needed to identify a new platform and assess our focus. We had built our initial community in the common format (somewhat ‘everything and the kitchen sink’) and needed to find what features and focus would drive member value and participation. After all, we wanted this community to improve the profession and advance knowledge and learning!

We contracted with Leader Networks to lead projects on defining our community strategy, designing and implementing research, and proposing conceptual community features. They were wonderful partners throughout this process and provided us with expert and honest insights. By the end of our work with them, we had a specific list of high value features and an overall focus for moving forward.”
– Katie Paffhouse, CAE Sr. Manager, Divisions and Community, IFT