It's no secret that we live in a mobile-first society – in fact, the average US adult spends roughly 3 hours 45 minutes per day on their smartphone.
On top of that, most of this mobile time is spent within apps themselves (92% of mobile time, according to Statista). Whether it’s banking, gaming, social media, or even running from virtual zombies (yes, there really is an app for everything), we just can’t get enough of them. Think of your own use of apps: are you using the responsive webpage for Facebook, or are you using their app?
So, if your association is still on the fence about whether an app is the right thing for you, then hopefully this blog post might persuade you to take action.
We have an app for our annual conference; can't we just use that?
While event apps are great for generating buzz and activity, the real challenge lies in maintaining that momentum and keeping your members engaged long-term. Often, once the event is over and done with, these apps are pretty much forgotten about and left to gather dust.
But with a year-round member app, the game changes. Here are some of the benefits of a year-round member app 👇
Mobile apps promote continuous engagement and interaction, allowing members to connect and form meaningful relationships anytime and anywhere, 24/7. Your member app can seamlessly integrate with your online community platforms too, providing an experience akin to social media, where members can interact with your content with ease.
Apps can also help retain your members. By consistently delivering valuable content and keeping connected, why would your members want to go anywhere else? Your association’s app becomes the virtual hub for all member activity, with content, community forums, learning, events, podcasts, digital publications and more, all in one place.
Apps can be used to deliver exclusive, valuable content that members can’t get elsewhere, from expert interviews to digital publications or academic journals. Offering this kind of unique value makes members feel special and appreciated, strengthening engagement and retention – after all, no one likes FOMO!
By providing real-time push notifications, news and updates directly in the palms of members’ hands, your members can stay informed – no more pesky emails getting lost in crowded inboxes. What’s more, push notifications can be targeted based on information that you already have about your members e.g. their location, job title, or events they have attended. This ensures members are only notified about things that are relevant to them.
Apps massively reduce the need for printed materials, contributing to your association's sustainability efforts. You can bring your magazines, journals, and brochures into your member app for more efficient digital distribution and a more interactive experience.
Although building and launching a member app requires investment, the long-term benefits far outweigh the costs. A seamless and convenient digital experience will help your association to recruit, engage, and retain members for years to come.
Apps can integrate with a wide variety of software, from CRM systems to mobile payments and digital membership cards, making it easier to streamline your processes, while enhancing the user experience.
Although the benefits of a year-round member app should now be crystal clear, you need to make sure you have the right content and communications to actually get your members to use your app.
Additionally, choosing the right platform is crucial to avoid any technical headaches and ensure a smooth, user-friendly experience.
Year-round member apps are essential for associations that want to keep up with member needs. Not only do they enhance engagement significantly, but they also reach your members exactly where they are – on their cell phones!
With a dedicated app, your association can provide personalized, engaging experiences at your members’ fingertips.
At Cantarus, we specialise in developing cutting-edge mobile apps for membership associations. Contact us below or click here to learn more about how we can help you with mobile.