The Association Specialists’ (TAS) recent report The Future of Associations: Predictions for 2026 highlights many of the real pressures facing Australian associations.
It reinforces a simple truth: that associations cannot meet these challenges through people and process alone. Smarter technology plays a critical role —improving operational efficiency on the inside while enabling stronger, more personalised member value on the outside.
Below are the top 7 predictions from TAS, that particularly stood out to Membes along with our observations on how these challenges can, and already are, being addressed by many associations through smarter technology.
TAS predicts members will increasingly expect personalised experiences, flexible engagement, simple digital processes, and easier access to learning.
For associations using spreadsheets and other disconnected tools, this is difficult, time-consuming or simply, not possible. However, the technology exists to automate these processes and make the services easy to deliver. Associations using Membes AMS are already meeting member expectations through online self-service, personalised communications, and seamless access to on-demand learning — creating member value, and at the same time, scalable new service offerings that deliver new revenue streams for associations.
The report highlights AI and emerging technologies as a means of:
While AI will certainly accelerate these gains, many of the efficiencies TAS describes — automated renewals, registrations, reporting, self-service, and data insights — have been delivered by fit-for-purpose association management systems for many years.
What AI now offers is enhancement, not a starting point. Associations that already operate on modern platforms like Membes AMS are better positioned to adopt AI features progressively, rather than trying to leapfrog from legacy systems. AI relies on using modern systems now to create a bank of data from which it can operate.
So true! And it’s more automation that enables greater human connection. Associations that have already automated manual processes are seeing tangible benefits — not just in efficiency, but in how staff time is redeployed.
“The increased automation has allowed us to massively increase productivity and reduce administration time. With more time to focus on members, we’re able to deliver more value by connecting with them and understanding what they need from us.”
Braden Clark, Chief Executive, ANZASW
Technology, when implemented well, creates space for more empathy and engagement, and better strategy.
This is an important point. Especially considering that current manual processes and workarounds, duplication and disconnected systems carry significant hidden costs of their own. Time spent re-entering data, reconciling reports, fixing errors, and managing multiple tools adds up quickly.
So, when selecting new systems and considering long term value, it’s critical to include modern SaaS-based association management systems in your shortlist. Instead of large upfront investments or ongoing upgrade costs, associations benefit from predictable monthly licence fees, continual improvements, and a platform that evolves alongside sector needs — reducing financial risk while increasing return over time.
Absolutely. That’s why the right implementation approach and support is critical. When selecting new technology, be sure to ask vendors about the onboarding process and the implementation services available.
In addition, many Membes customers benefit from the services of The Association Specialists (TAS) who can take care of the day-to-day operations of the association, freeing up staff to focus on the transition to a new system.
Done right, associations move past short-term disruption into long-term gains: clearer processes, better data, and significantly less manual administration. Over time, this shift improves resilience and reduces pressure on staff, rather than adding to it.
TAS encourages associations to build simple, secure, and effective technology stacks that support the long-term storage, organisation, and accessibility of information.
This too aligns closely with the strengths of the SaaS model when choosing an association management system. SaaS solutions are designed to be maintained, secured, and enhanced centrally — reducing the risk of systems becoming outdated or dependent on internal knowledge that may not be retained over time. They are continually evolving with product and security updates provided as part of monthly fees, as well as new innovations including powerful AI capability.
For boards and future leaders, this creates confidence that the association’s systems are sustainable, well-supported, and capable of adapting as expectations change.
Spreadsheets, emails, shared drives, and disconnected tools increase reliance on human behaviour — and often represent the weakest link in security.
Associations that centralise member data and core operations within a secure system like Membes AMS, or connect tools via well-maintained APIs, significantly reduce the risk of data breaches caused by duplication, uncontrolled access, or data moving outside secure environments. Added to that, the automatic system upgrades ensure you’re receiving the latest security upgrades to keep pace with new and increasing risks.
In closing, TAS sums up 2026 as ‘a year marked by transformation, adaptability, and a heightened focus on value’.
Associations that invest in fit-for-purpose technology now, are better positioned to operate efficiently, protect their data, and deliver meaningful, sustainable value to members — without sacrificing the human connection that sits at the heart of the sector.
Membes is here to help with a technology solution that supports associations in achieving these goals. Get in touch to learn more about Membes AMS.