“What kind of partnership is that?”
That was the question Theo van der Meulen, CFO of the KNHS, asked himself as he looked back on a previous IT partner that had been sold four times. Knowledge disappeared and rates increased, but the KNHS was left behind. It perfectly illustrates why the search for a new digital foundation isn’t just about technology. It’s about finding a partner for the future. A partner with “skin in the game.”
With nearly 120,000 members, the Royal Dutch Equestrian Federation (KNHS) is one of the largest sports associations in the Netherlands. Its core mission is to facilitate fair and accessible equestrian sports.
The Unique World of a Sports Federation
As a partner, we understand that a member association like the KNHS is a unique world. The goal isn’t profit maximization, but perfectly facilitating a passion.
For twenty years, the KNHS relied on an ERP system that was a huge step forward in the era of the Nokia 3310. But according to Theo, that technology has since transformed from an enabler into a “kind of straitjacket.” He states, “We are being held hostage by our systems.” Members could no longer be served properly. The federation had become too complex, and IT was seen as a limitation.
Solving the Puzzle Together
The challenge was clear: the KNHS needed an efficient and future-proof solution that put its members first again. As their partner, we helped the KNHS to grasp the full picture. We thought creatively to make the solution fit within their budget and brought our expertise in complex member organizations to the table.
“Grasping the full picture. For us, that made the difference.”
– Theo van der Meulen
The result is a blueprint for a total solution that combines the best of Salesforce with specific equestrian software. Salesforce excelled in the philosophy the KNHS envisioned: looking from the outside in, putting the customer first.
“Several parties could offer a technical solution. The deciding factor, however, was the commitment and effort to truly understand our unique world and make it work.”
– Jolet de Kleijn, Team Lead IT & Data
“Ultimately, there are several good solutions on the market. For us, the real win and the difference is in the partner, the collaboration, and the mutual trust.”
– Jaap Lucas, Director & Founder IT Selector
A Shared Ambition: Making the System Work for You
Our shared ambition is simple: a sustainable, stable, long-term relationship. We aren’t just building a system; we are building a future in which the KNHS can serve its members optimally through smooth experiences. A future where technology is a supporter, and the organization is ready for the next wave of innovation, including AI.
As Theo van der Meulen aptly puts it: the greatest win is “the moment we are no longer standing in our own way.” And that is exactly what we are aiming for, together.
“The fact that we were sitting at the table with fellow entrepreneurs – partners with ‘skin in the game’ – was a crucial point for us. That immediately builds trust.”
– Theo van der Meulen
We have written a whitepaper (in Dutch): a practical guide for executives who want to know if it’s time for the next step. In this document, you’ll find warning signs of an outdated IT system, key questions for choosing the right technology and partner, a case study, and a checklist. Download it here.
