When it comes to technology solutions, associations often face the difficult decision of whether to invest in a single, all-in-one Association Management Software (AMS) or to integrate multiple “best of breed” systems for different needs. Both options have their advantages, but increasingly, associations are finding that combining an AMS with best of breed solutions provides the flexibility, customization, and efficiency they need to grow and succeed in a rapidly changing environment.
In this blog post, we’ll explore how AMS and best of breed solutions can work together to help associations streamline their operations, improve member engagement, and increase overall efficiency. By understanding the strengths of both approaches, associations can make informed decisions about how to leverage technology for long-term success.
What is AMS?
Association Management Software (AMS) is a comprehensive platform designed to help associations manage and streamline key functions, such as membership management, event planning, finances, communications, and more. AMS platforms often come with a suite of built-in features that enable associations to handle their day-to-day operations in a unified system. They are a one-stop solution for many common organizational needs.
For example, an AMS might handle membership databases, renewals, invoicing, and event registrations. However, while AMS solutions offer a broad range of tools, some associations may find that these solutions don’t fully meet all their unique needs, especially when it comes to more specialized functions like advanced fundraising, marketing automation, or constituent relationship management.
What is Best of Breed?
Best of breed refers to selecting individual, specialized software solutions that excel in specific areas, rather than relying on an all-in-one solution. For example, a best of breed approach could involve using a separate platform for fundraising, email marketing, learning management, or accounting that integrates seamlessly with your AMS. These systems are typically more feature-rich and tailored to their particular function, offering enhanced capabilities compared to a generic, multi-purpose solution.
Many associations opt for best of breed solutions to ensure they are using the most powerful tools available for each task. For example, a best-in-class fundraising platform may offer advanced features such as predictive analytics or donor relationship management, which may not be available in an AMS. By choosing the best solution for each function, associations can gain access to cutting-edge tools that are customized for their needs.
Combining AMS and Best of Breed: The Best of Both Worlds
While AMS solutions provide associations with the foundation to manage their operations, integrating them with best of breed solutions can provide the flexibility and specialization that many organizations need. The key to success is ensuring that these systems can work together, sharing data seamlessly to create a unified experience for both staff and members.
Here are a few ways AMS and best of breed solutions can work together effectively:
- Optimized Workflow: When AMS is integrated with best of breed solutions, associations can create workflows that optimize both operations and member engagement. For instance, an AMS might handle member registration and event management, while a best of breed platform like a CRM or email marketing system can enhance communication and personalized outreach to members.
- Data Sharing and Integration: One of the biggest advantages of combining AMS and best of breed systems is the ability to seamlessly integrate data. By connecting these systems, associations can ensure that all data—whether it’s membership details, event registrations, donation information, or communication preferences—are consistent across platforms. This reduces the risk of data silos and ensures that every team has access to up-to-date, accurate information.
- Improved Member Engagement: Best of breed solutions can enhance the ways associations interact with their members. For example, by integrating an AMS with a best of breed marketing automation system, an association can send personalized email campaigns, set up targeted promotions, and build stronger relationships with members. Best of breed systems are often more advanced than the marketing tools within an AMS, giving associations the ability to engage members on a deeper level.
- Scalability and Flexibility: As associations grow and their needs evolve, integrating an AMS with best of breed solutions can provide the scalability they need. Since best of breed platforms are often more specialized, they can easily scale with the association’s growth, providing more powerful features as the organization’s requirements become more complex. At the same time, the AMS remains the central hub for managing day-to-day operations.
- Cost Efficiency: While AMS solutions may offer a broad range of features, associations may not need every feature offered by an all-in-one system. By combining an AMS with specific best of breed systems, associations can avoid paying for unnecessary features while getting access to the most advanced tools for their specific needs. This approach allows associations to make their technology budget go further and invest in solutions that directly support their mission.
Overcoming the Challenges of Integration
While the combination of AMS and best of breed solutions offers clear benefits, it’s important to address the challenges that come with integrating different systems. For example, ensuring that data flows seamlessly between systems can require careful planning and potentially additional technical expertise. Associations will need to invest time and resources in setting up integrations and ensuring that the systems are configured to work together efficiently.
However, with the right implementation partners and strategies in place, these challenges can be overcome. Tools like APIs, middleware, and integration platforms can help make the process smoother, ensuring that the different systems work together as one cohesive unit.
Conclusion
By combining the power of AMS with the specialized capabilities of best of breed solutions, associations can create a technology ecosystem that is both flexible and powerful. This approach provides the foundation of an AMS while allowing associations to integrate the best tools for fundraising, marketing, learning, and more. When executed correctly, the synergy between AMS and best of breed platforms can drive operational efficiency, enhance member engagement, and support long-term growth.
At Systems Rewired, we help associations navigate the complexities of integrating AMS with best of breed solutions. Whether you’re looking to streamline your operations, enhance member engagement, or implement a custom solution, we can provide the expertise and guidance to make sure your technology works for you. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help you create a connected, powerful system for your association.