Whether you're looking to simplify event management, increase member engagement or foster networking opportunities, a mobile application is a powerful asset that associations can leverage. As more and more people embrace the idea of managing their life on mobile devices, apps will become must-haves for associations that want to grow and engage members. In this guide we'll walk you through:

• The key benefits of having a mobile application for your association.
• Must-have features to encourage member engagement and streamline operations.
• A step-by-step process for building an app that meets your organization's unique needs.

The Benefits of Having A Mobile Application for Associations

Here are some of the top benefits of using a mobile app for your organization.

1. Enhanced member engagement

The average time spent on smartphones is ever-increasing, with people spending, on average, a total of 3 hours and 15 minutes on their phones each day. Offering a dedicated mobile app means targeting members where they spend a large portion of their time - on their phones.

2. Instant communication

Associations can notify and alert members promptly via a mobile app, sending information straight to their audience’s pocket.

3. Streamlined event management

Events hosted by associations can be streamlined and managed with ease by way of a robust mobile app. Acting as a centralized hub of information, both organizers and attendees are aided by a dedicated app. 

4. Data accessibility

Members can access data like member directories, event calendars, and sponsorship directories with ease. Association administrators are able to quickly and simply gather valuable data about their members via an app. 

5. Networking opportunities

Mobile apps for associations create opportunities for networking with their peers and forging new working and personal connections. 

6. Feedback and improvement

Precious feedback from members can be collected via a dedicated app, allowing for adjustments and improvements.

7. Adaptation to modern expectations

Associations can keep up with current trends and cater to present-day anticipations, ensuring relevancy and providing value for their members. 

How to Build A Mobile Application for Your Association

Now that you understand the perks both associations and association members can enjoy through a dedicated app, here's how to

build a mobile application that aligns with your association’s needs.

1. Choose the Right App Builder Platform

To answer the varied and ever-developing needs of associations, the number of app builder platforms on offer has skyrocketed.  This includes checking out online reviews from genuine sites. A good platform should also have experience in helping associations build apps. Enough experience allows the platform to know exactly what a certain association would need.

2. Design an Engaging and User-Friendly Interface

To get users to use the app, you have to be extra careful with the app's design. You need to have an app with a straightforward interface, which will make it easier for the users.

3. Customize Features to Suit Your Association’s Needs

A good app builder should be able to provide you with customization tools. A one-size-fits-all app may not work for your association. Guidebook offers customization features such as session verification, a central information hub, sponsorship opportunities, and networking and engagement.

Tips for Engaging Your Members With An Association App

Engagement is key to ensuring long-term success with your app. Here are some strategies to maximize user adoption.

Here are some strategies for taking advantage of these features.

Implement Push Notifications

Real-time notifications allow associations to keep members informed about events, announcements, urgent updates and anything else related to the association. These types of notifications - which are available in the Guidebook platform - keep members engaged because they're getting relevant updates.

Collect Member Feedback and Take Action

With an event management platform like Guidebook, associations can collect information from members by using features like surveys. This, in turn, helps associations identify areas for improvement.  After gathering feedback, association manager can respond to the feedback and making improvements where necessary. Gathering feedback helps members feel valued and appreciated. Responding to the feedback by making necessary improvements will also help in the growth of the association. 

Use Gamification To Drive Engagement

Gamification features like Guidebook's leaderboard, encourage member engagement by rewarding them for taking specific actions in the app. The dynamic and interactive nature of the leaderboard drives a higher level of engagement and associations can leverage it to for learning, networking and more.

Boost Member Engagement With Mobile Apps for Associations

A mobile application for associations offers multiple benefits, such as:

• easy access to important resources.
• enhanced member communication.
• reduced cost of printing
• less waste, as a result of reducing, or completing eliminating, the need for printed materials.
• streamlined operations during events and year round.

As a mobile-first, event management platform, Guidebook empowers associations by giving them the tools and support to build mobile apps that match their needs. For tips and inspiration for how to incorporate an app into your association, check out our case studies. With Guidebook, you get access to a user-friendly, drag and drop interface that doesn't require any coding skills. Improve your association's engagement by talking to one of our dedicated product experts or get started on your own.