The Evolution of Association Services – But how?

Far too often, associations neglect their digital presence. Digitally-savvy members tend to rely on the internet rather than, for example, printed media. But taking the step towards modern digital options is often difficult for associations, as decision-makers are usually more conservative and reluctant to take bold steps needed for development.

As a result, digital alternatives are frequently missing where printed association magazines or regular newsletters already exist. Naturally, not every member can receive the same treasure trove of information through this fragmented approach. Members must instead painstakingly gather and store these offers over time.

When it comes to attracting new members in particular, associations are dependent on a fully digitalised version of their offers and services. Younger people who have grown up with the internet see manually compiling association services as an unnecessary obstacle.

But older members can also be digitally savvy. When the latest photos of grandchildren only arrive by phone, even the strongest critics often make the digital leap. They want a fully digital version of all characteristics, services and benefits of the association just as much as younger members. However, they often feel underestimated or ignored when an association neglects its digital profile. As a result, frustration builds and enthusiasm for the association declines.

The ideal place to highlight the services, offers and benefits of association membership is your association’s network. This is where your members regularly gather and exchange ideas.

Bundle the body of knowledge your association uniquely provides in your network and allow your members to benefit from it. For example, you can create a database listing relevant information such as court rulings related to your sector. Every member can then access everything quickly and directly.

A digital member magazine is also a popular offering. While your members can always access the latest issue, you save costs through reduced print runs and by eliminating postage expenses.

Experience within your network how your services and offers are received. If members consider certain services too expensive or outdated, your network gives you immediate insight into their opinions. Based on this, you can refine or completely redesign your offers and services.

Allow your members to experience your association “hands-on”. Show a strong presence and provide a digital home for all relevant information, offers and services.

1. Individual and structured reference tools:

Create applications or whole pages that can be filled centrally and searched even more easily. An integrated tool makes building reference collections particularly simple.

2. Highlighting special offers:

Make unique solutions easily and quickly accessible for all members by showcasing them clearly. Time-limited offers, for example, can no longer be overlooked.

3. Bundling services:

Encourage familiarity by gathering all new and existing offers in one place within your network. Allow your members to explore your network independently.

4. Simple support for new services:

Help members use new services as quickly as possible by linking common or recurring questions and best-possible answers directly to new offers. This also supports independent problem-solving by members.

5. Low-threshold feedback:

Quickly identify new needs and areas for improvement through member feedback. With just one click members can give their input on opinion and sentiment polls.

6. Innovation and new ideas:

Encourage constant development of new ideas or innovative products and projects from your members. Within their community they can ask and answer questions, inspire one another and comment to offer support.