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RESOURCES: Blog

How Research Can Benefit Your Association: Benchmarking Surveys

Writer's picture: Karen TaylorKaren Taylor

Updated: Jan 23

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Understanding how research can benefit your association starts with one of its most powerful tools: benchmarking surveys. As associations seek to expand beyond traditional member benefits, strategic research programs have emerged as crucial drivers of member recruitment, retention, and non-dues revenue. Members consistently rank research and data programs among their top three most valued benefits, making benchmarking studies a clear pathway to enhanced member value.


The Strategic Value of Association Research


Benchmarking surveys represent one of the most impactful ways research can benefit your association. These comprehensive studies enable member organizations to assess their financial health against industry norms, compare operating costs with peers, and identify successful practices that drive growth. Through detailed analysis and comparison, organizations gain the insights needed to make data-driven decisions that improve their operational effectiveness and strategic positioning.


Understanding Benchmarking Research Impact


One compelling example of how research can benefit your association is through compensation and benefits benchmarking. These studies provide valuable insights into industry-standard salary ranges and benefits packages, helping organizations align their offerings with market expectations. Association leaders and hiring managers can use this data to develop competitive compensation strategies that attract and retain top talent while ensuring fiscal responsibility.


Developing Member-Focused Research


To maximize how research can benefit your association, start by listening to your members. What trends do they need more information about? What questions are they trying to answer? This understanding ensures your benchmarking research addresses real needs and provides actionable outcomes. Since successful benchmarking studies require active participation from industry members, this initial engagement helps gauge potential participation levels and determines which data points will provide the most value.


Ensuring Research Success


The success of benchmarking surveys depends on consistent implementation and regular updates. Annual or bi-annual studies strengthen participation rates and enhance the perceived value of the research. This consistency allows organizations to track trends over time and make more informed decisions based on historical data. Additionally, maintaining robust security measures and professional analysis methods ensures the integrity and reliability of your research program.


Professional Partnership Value


Many associations find that partnering with experienced research firms enhances how research can benefit their organization. These partnerships reduce internal resource demands while providing access to professional methodology and enhanced data security. An independent third party with expertise in handling confidential information can also reassure members about data privacy and integrity. Legal counsel should be consulted regarding the collection of sensitive information to ensure compliance with all relevant regulations.


Transforming Member Value Through Research


Understanding how research can benefit your association through benchmarking surveys opens new opportunities for member engagement and organizational growth. Whether examining compensation trends or operational metrics, well-designed research programs deliver tangible value to your member community. By investing in professional research capabilities, associations can provide their members with the insights needed to succeed in today's competitive environment.


Ready to explore how research can benefit your association? Expert guidance can help you develop a benchmarking program that delivers meaningful insights for your members.

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