36% of Membership and Trade Associations use Microsoft Dynamics to develop their Association Management Systems

According to the MemberWise Digital Excellence Report 2022, 36% of medium to large organisations use Microsoft Dynamics to develop their Association Management Systems.

What is an Association Management System (AMS)?

An Association Management System (AMS) is an all-in-one platform for organisations that value efficient management of its membership, events, communication, and other activities. The software platform will optimise operations and improve members’ experience through automating many administrative tasks like renewing memberships, sending out event invitations, and tracking attendance.

AMS is widely used by trade associations, professional societies, and other types of membership-based organisations. The system is designed to help these organisations streamline their operations to improve their overall efficiency. By providing a comprehensive and centralised platform leaders can focus on their core responsibilities and goals with confidence.

In summary, AMS is a vital tool for organisations seeking to optimise their operations and improve their members’ experience. It offers a range of benefits that help organisations save time and resources while improving overall efficiency.

What is the difference between a CRM and an AMS?

A CRM system like Microsoft Dynamics manages customer interactions and relationships, while an AMS is engineered specifically for membership-based organisations to manage their membership, events, communication, and activities. An AMS is purpose-built membership software and although there are many solutions our clients tend to engage Microsoft Dynamics partners to meet their evolving needs. Many partners have developed their own systems powered by Azure and Dynamics CRM, although they are likely to require fine-tuning to fit your organisation.

“58% of Membership organisations develop bespoke solutions to meet their objectives.” –MemberWise Digital Excellence Report 2022

Is there a difference between an AMS and a Digital Experience Platform (DXP)?

An AMS and a DXP are not interchangeable. Although a DXP is a more comprehensive platform that includes features like content management, digital marketing, and e-commerce, a well-designed AMS focuses specifically on managing membership-based organisations. It’s important to recognise the unique strengths of each platform and choose the one that best suits your needs.

A DXP may be necessary in addition to an AMS as it offers a more comprehensive platform for managing a wider range of digital activities. It’s important to evaluate your organisation’s specific needs and choose the platform or combination of platforms that best suits those needs.

What is a composable DXP?

“Umbraco is the no.1 CMS for medium to large membership-based organsiations.” – MemberWise Digital Excellence Report 2022

A composable DXP is a platform that enables organisations to construct their own digital experience by selecting and integrating best-of-breed applications, rather than relying on a pre-packaged solution. This approach allows organisations to build a customised platform that best meets their unique digital needs. Composable DXPs are becoming increasingly popular as organisations seek to create more flexible and agile digital experiences that can adapt to changing needs and customer demands. For example, an open-source CMS like Umbraco or a headless solution like Storyblok could sit alongside an AMS at the centre of a composable digital experience platform.

How can GrowCreate help? We work with membership organisations and trade associations to deliver connected websites built using .Net platforms like Umbraco CMS. Get in touch to find out more

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