Jason,

I think of RSS as an information coping tool. With so much out there, it's very efficient to get the information need to stay informed.

I've written a lot of about this here:
http://beth.typepad.com/beths_blog/2007/01/rss_as_informat.html

I've also written a detailed article about ego feeds - or listening - because that is critical use of RSS
http://beth.typepad.com/beths_blog/2007/01/are_they_listen.html

I also have to agree with Michele's point about thinking outside the field, although nonprofits have so little time that might send them over the edge.

One way to manage it, is to create the "circle of the wise" folder in your RSS. A selection (2-5) of people who write on similar topics but are not in your field. You read these folks every morning over coffee after doing email.

That's the big habit shift - to make RSS reading a daily habit like email is.

On another note, something rattling in my brain - not everyone has to follow feeds. Maybe within the organization, there is the "newsmaster" who reads a lot of stuff and then parses to other people.

Anyway, great stuff Jason. Love reading your blog!