Here's a summary of current trends:

• Most associations feel their websites are communicating effectively – but a significant number of them recognize that there is room for improvement.
• Most associations manage their websites in-house and a majority of associations have moved to more sophisticated website content management systems to do this.
• Associations are using their websites to manage a number of member-related activities, such as event registration, member info management, email newsletter publication, and director relations.

Our survey found that associations are genuinely satisfied with their websites. Over 84% of respondents felt their website was communicating effectively to both their members and the general public. This statement was true of all associations, regardless of the number of members, the number of staff, or the number of years they’ve had a website.

On the other hand, a significant number, almost 69%, indicated their website could still be improved. How? The responses fell into three basic categories:

• Navigation, webpage layout and graphic design – to make it easy for visitors to find the information they are looking for, while projecting an attractive professional-looking image.
• Member management and interactive online tools for association members to self-manage a variety of tasks.
• Technology to make it easier to manage website content, to exchange data between back-end systems, and to increase the strategic value of their website.

• Governance: Associations are beginning to see their website as a primary communication channel and one that would benefit from an underlying set of policies and principles to guide its management.
• Web 2.0: As members become more web-savvy, associations are using a combination of web technologies to enable member collaboration on emerging issues and agendas.

For a more detailed look at the trends in web development for associations, please download the PDF below.