Hear From the HSBA President

Change can be hard. Change can be necessary. Change is rarely smooth.

The primary and core function of the HSBA is to track the license status of Hawaii attorneys. It does so by using an Association Management System (AMS). Our AMS is used to track licensure status and process license renewals, but also publishes up-to-date contact information for the public, tracks annual CLE compliance, and facilitates Judiciary and IOLTA account oversight.

At the beginning of 2025, the Board of Directors approved the implementation of a new AMS system which we hope will provide a cost-effective solution that enhances our data security on a modern, streamlined platform. This month, we are excited to announce the transition to SailAMX—a modern, streamlined platform designed to meet the evolving needs of our membership while safeguarding sensitive information.

The decision to move away from our legacy system was not taken lightly. Last year, the HSBA executive team conducted a comprehensive review of available AMS solutions. This process included vendor demonstrations, consultations with trade associations across the continent, and a rigorous evaluation of functionality, user experience, and security protocols. Our goal was clear: identify a system that enhances efficiency, improves usability, and prioritizes member privacy.

One of the most significant considerations in selecting SailAMX was its approach to protecting personally identifiable information. Under the new system, members will no longer need to rely on Social Security numbers for authentication. Instead, you will log in using your preferred email address and a secure numerical code will be sent directly to you.

By December 1, we expect that the new AMS will be operational with all of our data migrated. This year’s renewal will be conducted using SailAMX. You will have some homework, though. Members will be receiving an email encouraging them to complete any unfinished CLE courses in their account, to secure credit. While HSBA maintains CLE certificates as a courtesy, members remain responsible for accurate recordkeeping under RSCH guidelines.

Postcards will go out soon, reminding members of the renewal process. Hard copy forms will be available for emeritus members, while all others will renew online using their preferred email and a secure code. The HSBA Membership team has begun testing this week to ensure readiness.

We are optimistic that this transition will improve usability and security but positions HSBA for future enhancements. We are realistic that this change may not be perfect. If you don’t handle your own license renewal, please forward this column to the person who does. And, while we change, please be patient and pause before sending a snarky email.

Thank you for your continued support as we make this important transition. Together, we are building a more secure, user-friendly, and forward-thinking HSBA