{"id":13311,"date":"2025-12-17T07:00:34","date_gmt":"2025-12-17T07:00:34","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.naylor.com\/associationadviser\/?p=13311"},"modified":"2026-06-23T09:36:04","modified_gmt":"2026-06-23T09:36:04","slug":"2025-in-reflection-what-we-learned-and-where-were-headed-in-2026","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.naylor.com\/associationadviser\/2025-in-reflection-what-we-learned-and-where-were-headed-in-2026\/","title":{"rendered":"2025 in Reflection: What We Learned and Where We\u2019re Headed in 2026"},"content":{"rendered":"\t\t<div data-elementor-type=\"wp-post\" data-elementor-id=\"13311\" class=\"elementor elementor-13311\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<section class=\"elementor-section elementor-top-section elementor-element elementor-element-34100437 elementor-section-boxed elementor-section-height-default elementor-section-height-default\" data-id=\"34100437\" data-element_type=\"section\" data-e-type=\"section\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-container elementor-column-gap-default\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-column elementor-col-100 elementor-top-column elementor-element elementor-element-28bb10cd\" data-id=\"28bb10cd\" data-element_type=\"column\" data-e-type=\"column\">\n\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-wrap elementor-element-populated\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-7e7e44ad elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"7e7e44ad\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">As 2025 comes to an end, association leaders are&nbsp;reflecting on&nbsp;a year marked by steady engagement, new pressures on communication, and continued progress in building member connection. Throughout the year, I had the opportunity to speak with many of you about the work you are doing to support your communities. Your commitment continues to guide the direction of our industry and the work we do at Naylor Association Solutions.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">2025: A Year of Reconnection and Adjustment<\/span><\/b><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">&nbsp;<\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">This year brought an increase in member touchpoints across multiple channels.&nbsp;<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/content.naylor.com\/BenchmarkingReport25.html?utm_source=aa&amp;utm_medium=article&amp;utm_campaign=AAarticle121825_BMReport25\"><b><span data-contrast=\"none\">The 2025 Association Benchmarking Report<\/span><\/b><\/a><b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">&nbsp;<\/span><\/b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">found that associations communicated with members an average o<\/span><span data-contrast=\"auto\">f&nbsp;30 times per month, which re<\/span><span data-contrast=\"auto\">flects a clear effort to&nbsp;maintain&nbsp;ongoing visibility and support.&nbsp;<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335551550&quot;:1,&quot;335551620&quot;:1,&quot;335559738&quot;:240,&quot;335559739&quot;:240,&quot;335559740&quot;:240}\">&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">At the same time, assoc<\/span><span data-contrast=\"auto\">iations noted that members often&nbsp;didn&#8217;t&nbsp;realize the extent of their benefits.&nbsp;Communicating member benefits effectively&nbsp;remained a significant challenge for more than half of respondents. This highlights the need for&nbsp;<\/span><span data-contrast=\"auto\">simpler communication structures and clearer messaging that helps members understand the value of their relationship with&nbsp;their association.&nbsp;<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335551550&quot;:1,&quot;335551620&quot;:1,&quot;335559738&quot;:240,&quot;335559739&quot;:240,&quot;335559740&quot;:240}\">&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Events held strong throughout the y<\/span><span data-contrast=\"auto\">ear.&nbsp;Ninety-three percent&nbsp;of ass<\/span><span data-contrast=\"auto\">ociation leaders&nbsp;identified&nbsp;traditional conferences and face-to-face events as their most valuable engagement tool. These gatherings continue to provide opportunities for learning,&nbsp;connection,&nbsp;and shared momentum.&nbsp;<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335551550&quot;:1,&quot;335551620&quot;:1,&quot;335559738&quot;:240,&quot;335559739&quot;:240,&quot;335559740&quot;:240}\">&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Technology adoption&nbsp;has also&nbsp;increased. More associations experimented with artificial intelligence to support content production, member service, and operational efficiency. While adoption is still in&nbsp;early stages, interest grew quickly as teams looked for ways to reduce workload and respond to member needs with more accuracy and speed.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335551550&quot;:1,&quot;335551620&quot;:1,&quot;335559738&quot;:240,&quot;335559739&quot;:240,&quot;335559740&quot;:240}\">&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Financially, associations continued to navigate pressures around revenue<\/span><span data-contrast=\"auto\">.&nbsp;Sixty-one percent&nbsp;of respondents reported that generating non-dues revenue remained a top concern. Associations are exploring new ways to diversify revenue while strengthening existing partnerships and developing more integrated sponsorship offerings.&nbsp;<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335551550&quot;:1,&quot;335551620&quot;:1,&quot;335559738&quot;:240,&quot;335559739&quot;:240,&quot;335559740&quot;:240}\">&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Overall, 2025 was a year of recalibration. Associations continued to rebuild programs, refine communication strategies, and assess what members value most.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335551550&quot;:1,&quot;335551620&quot;:1,&quot;335559738&quot;:240,&quot;335559739&quot;:240,&quot;335559740&quot;:240}\">&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">2026: The Next Chapter for Associations<\/span><\/b><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">&nbsp;<\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">The year ahead will require steady attention to several areas of opportunity and growth.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335551550&quot;:1,&quot;335551620&quot;:1,&quot;335559738&quot;:240,&quot;335559739&quot;:240,&quot;335559740&quot;:240}\">&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Strengthening the Member Experience<\/span><\/b><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">&nbsp;<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Members want communication that is clear,&nbsp;reliable,&nbsp;and relevant.&nbsp;Associations will continue refining their communication systems to remove unnecessary noise and emphasize information that helps members take action or feel connected to the community.&nbsp;This includes improved segmentation and better alignment&nbsp;among&nbsp;internal teams.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335551550&quot;:1,&quot;335551620&quot;:1,&quot;335559738&quot;:240,&quot;335559739&quot;:240,&quot;335559740&quot;:240}\">&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Evolving the Event Landscape<\/span><\/b><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">&nbsp;<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Events will remain central to association strategy. Organizations are beginning to think about events as part of a longer cycle of engagement that includes preparation,&nbsp;participation,&nbsp;and follow-up activities. This approach supports stronger year-round&nbsp;connection&nbsp;and helps members carry insights and relationships forward.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335551550&quot;:1,&quot;335551620&quot;:1,&quot;335559738&quot;:240,&quot;335559739&quot;:240,&quot;335559740&quot;:240}\">&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Advancing Revenue Strategy<\/span><\/b><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">&nbsp;<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Non-dues revenue goals require a combination of thoughtful planning, diversified&nbsp;offerings,&nbsp;and improved use of data. Sponsorships, education programs, digital&nbsp;platforms,&nbsp;and career development tools will continue to evolve as important revenue sources. Associations that introduce more flexibility and more targeted opportunities will be well positioned for growth.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335551550&quot;:1,&quot;335551620&quot;:1,&quot;335559738&quot;:240,&quot;335559739&quot;:240,&quot;335559740&quot;:240}\">&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Expanding the Use of Data and Technology<\/span><\/b><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">&nbsp;<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Interest in AI and analytics will continue to increase. To support this growth, associations will focus on improving data quality,&nbsp;documentation,&nbsp;and internal processes. Many organizations have noted the need to reinforce staffing in data and strategy roles. Building the right foundation will be essential for long-term success.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335551550&quot;:1,&quot;335551620&quot;:1,&quot;335559738&quot;:240,&quot;335559739&quot;:240,&quot;335559740&quot;:240}\">&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Supporting Leadership and Teams<\/span><\/b><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">&nbsp;<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Teams continue to navigate increased workloads and evolving member expectations. Associations that invest in internal training, operational&nbsp;clarity,&nbsp;and staff support will strengthen their ability to meet member needs with confidence and consistency.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335551550&quot;:1,&quot;335551620&quot;:1,&quot;335559738&quot;:240,&quot;335559739&quot;:240,&quot;335559740&quot;:240}\">&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Preparing for 2026<\/span><\/b><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">&nbsp;<\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">This past year highlighted the adaptability and persistence of association leaders. The adjustments made throughout 2025 have created momentum that will carry into the new year. With clearer communication, stronger events, improved&nbsp;technology,&nbsp;and a more intentional approach to revenue, associations are entering 2026 with a solid foundation and meaningful opportunities for growth.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335551550&quot;:1,&quot;335551620&quot;:1,&quot;335559738&quot;:240,&quot;335559739&quot;:240,&quot;335559740&quot;:240}\">&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">On behalf of everyone at Naylor Association Solutions, thank you for your continued partnership&nbsp;and collaboration.&nbsp;I look forward to the work we will&nbsp;accomplish&nbsp;together in the year ahead.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335551550&quot;:1,&quot;335551620&quot;:1,&quot;335559738&quot;:240,&quot;335559739&quot;:240,&quot;335559740&quot;:240}\">&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>\n<div class=\"clear\"><\/div><div class=\"author-info row\"><div class=\"col col-3\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"author-img\" src=\"https:\/\/www.naylor.com\/associationadviser\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2025\/12\/thumbnail_IMG_1747-e1765899758410.jpg\" alt=\"\" \/><\/div><div class=\"col col-9\"><div class=\"author-info-content\"><h3>About The Author<\/h3>\n\t\t\t <strong>Christine Shaw <\/strong>is the CEO &amp; President at Naylor Association Solutions. Reach her at <a href=\"mailto:christine.shaw@naylor.com\">christine.shaw@naylor.com<\/a> or connect with her on <a href=\"https:\/\/www.linkedin.com\/in\/christineashaw\/\">LinkedIn<\/a>.\n\t\t\t<\/div><\/div><\/div>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p>Photo courtesy of LanaSweet\/<a href=\"http:\/\/Shutterstock.com\" target=\"_blank\">Shutterstock.com<\/a>.<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/section>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>As 2025 comes to an end, association leaders are&nbsp;reflecting on&nbsp;a year marked by steady engagement, new pressures on communication, and continued progress in building member connection. Throughout the year, I had the opportunity to speak with many of you about the work you are doing to support your communities. Your commitment continues to guide the [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":297,"featured_media":13314,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[2,31,87,4,3,6],"tags":[150,50,1871,121,32,57],"class_list":["post-13311","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-events","category-features","category-association-leadership","category-membership","category-revenue","category-technology","tag-association-membership","tag-events","tag-future","tag-leadership-2","tag-revenue-2","tag-technology-2"],"acf":[],"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO plugin v28.6 - https:\/\/yoast.com\/product\/yoast-seo-wordpress\/ -->\n<title>2025 in Reflection: What We Learned and Where We\u2019re Headed in 2026 - Association Adviser<\/title>\n<meta name=\"description\" content=\"As 2025 comes to an end, association leaders are\u00a0reflecting on\u00a0a year marked by steady engagement, new pressures on communication, and continued progress in building member connection.\" \/>\n<meta name=\"robots\" content=\"index, follow, max-snippet:-1, max-image-preview:large, max-video-preview:-1\" \/>\n<link rel=\"canonical\" href=\"https:\/\/www.naylor.com\/associationadviser\/2025-in-reflection-what-we-learned-and-where-were-headed-in-2026\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:locale\" content=\"en_US\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:type\" content=\"article\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:title\" content=\"2025 in Reflection: What We Learned and Where We\u2019re Headed in 2026 - 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