Association Matters News
Our updates provide practical ideas, benchmarking data, and research insights drawn from our extensive work with members and associations.
Professional vs. industry associations: Is the value proposition different and does it matter?
Survey Matters Blog
February 2025
After working with associations for over 15 years, one thing has become crystal clear, member engagement is never one-size-fits-all. Professional and industry associations are both essential to members, but their members have very different priorities.
Unlocking success: what 15,000 members say about the true value of association membership
Associations Matter Insight Hub Article
February 2025
Our analysis has uncovered key insights that answer the burning questions on the minds of association executives and boards. In this edition we reveal the top six drivers of membership and deep dive into the top three.
The role of research in creating a strong brand and driving growth
December 2024
An association’s reputation and brand are fundamental drivers of its financial sustainability. Research is the foundation for understanding how an association’s brand is perceived and how its activities align with member expectation and values.
Common approaches to member engagement research.
November 2024
Depending on the stage you are at in you member engagement journey, most associations use a combination of strategic research and ongoing tracking surveys to continuously monitor and enhance member experience.
Why member engagement research is essential for associations.
November 2024
Member engagement research is a powerful tool for associations to meet their members’ evolving needs and expectations. By gaining a deep understanding of member needs, associations can enhance their programs, retain members, and drive growth effectively
Digital marketing channels and effectiveness in Australasian associations
May 2024
In the ever-evolving landscape of digital marketing, associations are strategically employing various paid and unpaid digital channels to enhance member engagement, drive event attendance, and achieve broader organisational goals.
Trends in association events
April 2024
In a sign that associations are adjusting to the new normal post-pandemic, a majority indicate their next annual event will be in-person only, and most are seeing greater attendance at in-person conferences and online webinars than pre-covid.
Membership growth statistics, 2023
March 2024
Australasian associations saw mixed membership growth in 2023, with most reporting either higher or stable member numbers
Performance measurement in associations
February 2024
A majority of Australian associations leverage benchmarks for performance tracking, recognising their crucial role in strategic planning and service improvement.
Association challenges in 2023
November 2023
Association executives are facing multiple challenges, largely centred around membership dynamics, financial sustainability, and staffing and resource constraints.
Membership drivers and barriers
October 2023
Developing an engaging value proposition: education and support drives membership of associations, with perceptions of high cost and lack of value the main barriers
Association engagement with social issues
September 2023
Alignment with strategy and member expertise are key drivers of associations’ decision to take a position on social issues.
Member acquisition strategies
August 2023
Two thirds of associations have grown their membership over the last 12 months, with strategies focussed on brand building and personal connection driving the most success.
Online communications engagement trends
July 2023
Half of associations say it is getting harder to engage members online.
Association leaders economic sentiment
June 2023
Three in ten association leaders concerned about current economic conditions.