Behind every successful association stands a network of interconnected systems:
Your AMS serves as the system of record, handling:
Your LMS powers professional development through:
Your event platforms, marketing systems, and community tools round out the ecosystem, managing everything from conference registration to member communications and peer-to-peer engagement.
Education has become one of the mosts powerful driver of association membership, representing a fundamental shift in what members value. Since 2019, we've seen unprecedented growth in virtual learning opportunities. Members aren't just interested in professional development—they expect sophisticated, accessible online education as part of their membership.
The professional development marketplace is experiencing dramatic change. AI tools have lowered barriers to entry, enabling for-profit training providers to create and distribute content faster than ever. This shift brings both challenges and opportunities for associations.
Commercial providers can now produce courses quickly and cheaply. But they can't replicate what makes association education special: deep industry knowledge, peer-to-peer learning opportunities, and the credibility that comes from your position in the industry.
Modern learning technology helps you:
Before investing in any new technology, you need to distinguish between technical and business challenges.
Technical issues typically include:
Business challenges look different:
New technology alone won't fix broken processes. But the right learning platform can address both technical and business challenges while generating critical revenue to fund other improvements.
With over 1,000 learning management systems on the market, making the right choice is crucial. Look for platforms specifically designed for association needs that offer:
More importantly, evaluate potential partners on their strategic alignment. Do they understand association business models? Will their future innovations serve your members' needs, or are associations just a small part of their market?
Success requires more than selecting the right technology. Focus on smart timing and sequencing—resist the temptation to modernize everything at once.
Your implementation strategy should include:
Your learning platform should do more than deliver courses. Modern professional development demands:
These features help position your association as the definitive source for professional growth in your industry.
A Word About Governance
Keep your board focused on strategic direction, not software features. While boards should set the vision, staff should manage specific technology selections and implementations. This distinction maintains clear accountability and speeds decision-making.
When every system needs attention, starting with learning technology might seem counterintuitive. But it offers unique advantages:
Your members aren't just looking for courses—they're seeking career advancement, professional credibility, and meaningful connections. Modern learning technology delivers all three. By making this your first step toward digital transformation, you'll build both member loyalty and organizational strength.
Remember: You don't have to fix everything at once. Choose your starting point strategically, execute effectively, and let success build on success.
Liam O'Malley, CAE, PMP
Vice President of Association Solutions, Blue Sky eLearn
Liam joined the Blue Sky eLearn team in 2019 as the Vice President of Association Solutions. With over 15 years of experience working with associations and non-profit organizations on a variety of technological projects, Liam brings a broad range of industry expertise and technical skill to the sales process. His in-depth knowledge of the association space allows him to communicate effectively to audiences no matter their background or experience level with technology. Additionally, Liam's project management history brings an attention to detail in the process of evaluation and solution development, ensuring that all Blue Sky clients can begin their journey on the right foot.
Path LMS is used by hundreds of organizations to deliver high-quality online learning, networking events, and conferences. Book a demo today!
