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RESOURCES: Blog

5 Steps to Rejuvenating Your Association’s Research

Writer's picture: Karen TaylorKaren Taylor

Updated: Jan 23

Graphs, charts, and the word "Research" on a paper surrounded by a magnifying glass, dice, colored push pins, and a closed laptop.

While investing in quality research is crucial for associations, success depends on having a clear strategy for implementation and delivery. Rejuvenating your association's research requires careful consideration of how findings will be packaged, distributed, and leveraged across your organization to create maximum value for your member community.


Creating a Robust Research Framework


The research ecosystem encompasses every aspect of your research program, from initial planning through final implementation. By rejuvenating your association's research through a systematic approach, you can ensure your findings deliver actionable insights and tangible member value.


Five Pillars of Research Excellence


1. Strategic Planning and Structure

Most associations lack dedicated research staff, making partnerships with experienced research firms crucial for rejuvenating your association's research. Working closely with stakeholders and members helps identify critical knowledge gaps and research priorities that align with organizational goals.


2. Professional Implementation

Independent third-party research partners bring credibility and expertise to sensitive data collection. This professional approach builds member confidence and ensures reliable results that can drive decision-making.


3. Effective Presentation and Packaging

Transform raw data into accessible insights through strategic presentation choices. Whether through interactive visualizations, narrative context, or detailed analysis, packaging should align with member preferences and consumption habits.


4. Strategic Distribution

Rejuvenating your association's research requires thoughtful promotion and distribution. Consider multiple channels including:

  • Targeted breakout sessions

  • Engaging webinar presentations

  • Interactive digital reports

  • Member-exclusive content offerings


5. Continuous Evaluation

Regular assessment of research effectiveness ensures continuous improvement. Cross-departmental feedback helps shape future initiatives and maximize resource utilization for strategic goals.


Leveraging Research Across Your Organization


Successful research programs extend beyond data collection to influence multiple organizational functions. Consider how departments from education to development can both inform and benefit from research findings. This integrated approach ensures maximum return on your research investment.


Monetization and Member Value


When rejuvenating your association's research, consider opportunities for both member benefit and revenue generation. Well-packaged research can serve as:

  • An exclusive member benefit

  • A powerful recruitment tool

  • A premium content offering

  • A demonstration of industry leadership


Moving Forward with Research Excellence


Rejuvenating your association's research requires careful planning, professional implementation, and strategic delivery. By building a comprehensive research ecosystem, associations can create sustainable programs that deliver ongoing value to their communities.


Ready to transform your association's research program? Expert guidance can help you develop a research ecosystem that drives meaningful results for your members. Contact us today.

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