Running an organization involves many responsibilities and there are numerous moving parts. Association management software (AMS) is useful for boosting your productivity, automating many tasks, and staying on track with your goals. Let’s look at some key features of AMS, how it differs from other types of software, and how to decide if this is something that can help your organization.
What is Association Management Software?
Association Management Software or AMS is software that helps with areas such as setting up events, managing online newsletters, accounting, dues collection, website management, member directories, and more. This type of software is used by nonprofits, alumni associations, homeowner associations, various types of professional associations, and other types of organizations that need to manage their membership and activities.
Association Management Software vs Member Management Software
You may be wondering about the difference between association management and member management software. The two types of software may overlap, but there are certain differences as well. AMS usually has broader functions that usually include member management features. However, AMS may also include additional features that support marketing campaigns, managing organization publications, awards, certifications, and other tasks. AMS is usually more comprehensive and suitable for organizations that want to cover all aspects of association management.
Pricing for AMS
When you consider any type of software, you need to keep your budget in mind. If you shop around for AMS, you’ll find there’s quite a variety. There are free AMS services, ones that are quite expensive, and many in between. Many services offer tiered pricing, so you only pay for the features you need. This is often based on the size of your membership. You may also be able to sample AMS by taking advantage of free trials.
Do You Need Association Management Software?
How can AMS help you with managing your organization? Here are some reasons that you may want to consider this type of software.
Manage Your Data
If you’re like many organizations, you have lots of data to collect and manage. An AMS makes this easier, helping you manage all types of data, such as:
- Membership. Keep track of your members, including new members, expiring members, and members with different levels of membership.
- Dues and billing. AMS helps you with dues billing and collection. Manage different types of payments, such as monthly, annual, and multi-tiers.
- Fundraising data. You need to understand the results of your fundraising campaigns.
- Financials. Manage all financial transactions for your organization. This helps you understand your financials, so you can plan better for the future. You can export data to your accountant or accounting software.
- Ad campaigns. AMS software can help you place ads and track the results of your campaigns.
Problems an AMS Can Solve
An AMS can make your organization more productive and better organized in a number of ways. Here’s how AMS can solve some common problems.
- Lack of time. You won’t have to spend countless hours collecting and managing data as much of this will be automated.
- You can’t keep up with all your data. An AMS provides more accurate and up-to-date information.
- Your member attrition rate is too high. With better engagement and by sending out dues notices promptly, you’ll see more renewals.
- You find it challenging to manage your website. Choose an AMS that provides support for website management.
- Events are complicated and time-consuming to set up and manage. AMS helps you manage events more effectively.
- You need more accurate and comprehensive analytics. An AMS provides robust analytics with the latest data.
What Can You Expect From Association Management Software?
Here are some core features that you can expect with a good AMS.
- Dues management —Let members know promptly when their memberships are about to expire.
- Fundraising management — Optimize online fundraising. Enable mobile donations, encourage members to make recurring donations, set up email fundraising campaigns.
- Member directory — A directory helps you keep track of your membership and make it easier for members to connect with each other.
- Member portal —Allows members to access exclusive features.
- Email marketing — Engage with members with timely messages and newsletters.
- Financial management — Handle financial tasks such as invoicing, receipts, credits, and installment payments faster and with greater accuracy.
- Online payment processing — Accept credit card payments and e-checks using popular payment gateways.
- Reports and spreadsheet merging — Get custom reports to bring up any information you need.
You may also find some enhanced features on an AMS platform, such as:
- Continuing education — Courses, workshops, certifications.
- Website management — Manage the content and features of your organization’s website for a better user experience.
- Survey management — Collect information about your members, so you can better serve them.
- Jobs board — Make it simple for employers and applicants to find each other.
- Social media integration — Get wider reach by connecting with people on social media.
- Event management — Manage the logistics of both live and virtual events. Set up payments for different tiers (e.g. early bird pricing), create event schedules, and make changes as needed.
- Paid advertising — Generate revenue with ads and track impressions and clicks.
- Online stores — Sell branded products for your organization.
- Mobile apps —Let members access all your features on their mobile devices.
What to Consider When Choosing an AMS
You have many choices for association management software. It’s always sensible to do your research and make sure you choose a solution that’s right for you. Here are some of the points to consider.
- The features you need. Identify what areas you want to improve in your organization. Find an AMS that will help you solve your problems and help you run your organization more efficiently.
- The size of your organization. Some software is better suited for smaller associations while others can handle more members and data. Additionally, some AMS platforms have multiple tiers to support different levels.
- Your budget. You need to find a software or service plan that fits your budget.
How to Evaluate if an AMS is Right For You
Here are some tips to help you find the right AMS solution for your organization.
- Browse the websites of several AMS platforms. Consider the features they offer and pricing.
- Look up customer testimonials and reviews. Look for specific positive and negative points raised by reviewers.
- If a company offers a free trial of the software, take advantage of this.
AMO is a flexible platform offering Association Management Software that can solve many of your organization’s problems and challenges. Contact us to learn more about AMO or to sign up for a free trial.