An association’s website is more than just a digital address—it’s a powerful tool for advancing your mission, strengthening member relationships, and showcasing your impact. At Elevation, we’ve spent over 20 years helping associations build and enhance their digital presence. Through tailored solutions and a deep understanding of the nonprofit and association landscape, we’ve supported organizations in achieving their goals and thriving in an increasingly competitive online environment.
Your website serves as the heartbeat of your organization’s online presence. Whether your goal is to attract new members, engage existing ones, or amplify your mission, your website must reflect the professionalism, purpose, and value your association brings to the table. In today’s digital-first world, a thoughtfully designed website isn’t just an asset—it’s an essential component of success.
In this article, we’ll delve into the essential features every association website needs to include, share actionable tips for hiring the right agency, and highlight some of the best association websites excelling in their online strategies. Let’s begin by exploring the critical elements of an effective association website.
What Your Association Website Needs to Include
Building a successful association website requires more than a polished design. It should serve as a comprehensive, functional, and engaging hub for members, stakeholders, and visitors. Here are the key features every association website should have, with detailed insights into why they matter:
1. Clear Navigation
Your website’s navigation acts as a roadmap for visitors. A well-organized menu should guide users to essential information effortlessly.
- Why It Matters: Poor navigation frustrates users, causing them to leave before finding what they need.
- How to Do It Right: Use intuitive categories like “Membership,” “Events,” “About Us,” and “Resources.” Employ dropdown menus to avoid clutter and include a search bar for quick access to content.
2. Responsive Design
Responsive design ensures your website adapts seamlessly to any screen size, from desktops to smartphones.
- Why It Matters: Over half of web traffic comes from mobile devices. If your site isn’t mobile-friendly, you risk alienating a significant portion of your audience.
- How to Do It Right: Test your site on multiple devices and prioritize fast loading speeds. Use tools like Google’s Mobile-Friendly Test to confirm responsiveness.
3. Compelling Visuals
High-quality visuals—images, videos, and graphics—create an engaging user experience and reinforce your brand identity.
- Why It Matters: First impressions are visual. A professional and cohesive aesthetic helps build trust and keeps visitors interested.
- How to Do It Right: Invest in professional photography, use relevant graphics, and incorporate videos to tell your story. Ensure visuals align with your branding guidelines.
4. Member Portals
A dedicated member portal provides a personalized experience for your association’s members.
- Why It Matters: Members expect value for their subscription. A portal offering exclusive resources, event access, or forums boosts engagement and satisfaction.
- How to Do It Right: Include features like profile management, downloadable resources, and discussion boards. Protect member data with secure login systems.
5. Search Engine Optimization (SEO)
SEO ensures your website ranks high on search engines, making it easier for potential members and partners to find you.
- Why It Matters: Even the best website won’t deliver results if it’s invisible online.
- How to Do It Right: Research keywords your audience uses, optimize metadata, and create quality content that answers common queries. Use tools like Google Analytics to track performance and adjust your strategy.
6. Event Integration
For associations, events are often a cornerstone of engagement. Event integration streamlines the process of sharing information and securing participation.
- Why It Matters: A seamless event experience encourages attendance and boosts member involvement.
- How to Do It Right: Include event calendars, registration forms, and payment processing. Offer virtual options with integrated video conferencing tools.
7. Calls-to-Action (CTAs)
CTAs are critical for guiding users toward meaningful engagement, such as signing up for membership, registering for events, or donating.
- Why It Matters: Without clear CTAs, users may leave your site without taking action, resulting in missed opportunities.
- How to Do It Right: Place CTAs prominently on your homepage, within content, and at the end of blog posts. Use action-oriented language like “Join Now,” “Learn More,” or “Support Our Mission.”
By incorporating these features into your association’s website, you’ll create a powerful tool that not only represents your organization effectively but also drives meaningful engagement and impact. Up next, let’s look at some of the best association websites that have mastered these elements.
The 10 Great Association Website Examples
1. NATSO (National Association of Truckstop Operators)
Website: natso.org
About the Organization: NATSO represents travel plaza and truckstop operators, advocating for their interests and providing industry-leading resources.
Why We Like It:
- Resource Hub: Offers comprehensive tools, news, and updates for members.
- Modern Design: A clean, professional layout with visually engaging images.
- Advocacy Highlights: Prominently showcases policy initiatives and member stories.
2. CalNonprofits (California Association of Nonprofits)
Website: calnonprofits.org
About the Organization: CalNonprofits advocates for California’s nonprofit sector, helping organizations strengthen their impact and voice.
Why We Like It:
- Member Services: Easy access to tools and insurance options for members.
- Engaging Content: Regularly updated blogs, policy updates, and webinars.
- Inclusivity: Offers content in multiple languages to serve diverse audiences.
3. NASDDDS (National Association of State Directors of Developmental Disabilities Services)
Website: nasddds.org
About the Organization: This association supports state agencies delivering services to people with developmental disabilities.
Why We Like It:
- Accessible Design: Ensures inclusivity for individuals with disabilities.
- Thought Leadership: Features in-depth reports and case studies.
- User-Friendly Navigation: A clear structure for accessing key information quickly.
4. CGJA (California Grand Jurors’ Association)
Website: cgja.org
About the Organization: CGJA promotes and supports California’s grand juries in improving governance and accountability.
Why We Like It:
- Educational Focus: Offers detailed guides and training resources.
- Local Impact: Showcases county-level initiatives with high transparency.
- Simple Yet Effective: Minimalistic design ensures ease of use.
5. AMA Foundation (American Marketing Association Foundation)
Website: amafoundation.org
About the Organization: Dedicated to advancing the marketing industry through scholarships, research, and diversity initiatives.
Why We Like It:
- Scholarship Promotion: Highlights opportunities for students and professionals.
- Clean Visuals: A modern, visually appealing website with compelling imagery.
- Donation Integration: Seamlessly encourages contributions to its mission.
6. WNPA (Western National Parks Association)
Website: wnpa.org
About the Organization: A nonprofit partner to the National Park Service, supporting education, research, and park improvements.
Why We Like It:
- Storytelling: Combines impactful visuals with engaging narratives.
- Shop Feature: Encourages support through an online store.
- Mission Alignment: Clearly communicates its dedication to preserving natural treasures.
7. MNA (Minnesota Council of Nonprofits)
Website: mnaonline.org
About the Organization: MNA strengthens Minnesota’s nonprofit sector through leadership, training, and advocacy.
Why We Like It:
- Training Tools: Features an extensive library of workshops and webinars.
- Member Dashboard: Intuitive and helpful for member engagement.
- Vibrant Design: A colorful and dynamic aesthetic that reflects community impact.
8. AMA (American Marketing Association)
Website: ama.org
About the Organization: AMA is the leading professional association for marketing practitioners, offering education, certification, and networking opportunities.
Why We Like It:
- Thought Leadership: Regularly updated with insightful articles and resources.
- Interactive Features: Includes quizzes, assessments, and certification paths.
- Global Reach: Caters to a wide audience while maintaining a personalized feel.
9. PANO (Pennsylvania Association of Nonprofit Organizations)
Website: pano.org
About the Organization: PANO empowers Pennsylvania nonprofits with advocacy, collaboration, and resources.
Why We Like It:
- Community Building: Highlights collaborative initiatives and member stories.
- Event Integration: Seamlessly incorporates event registration and updates.
- Professional Aesthetic: A polished design that instills confidence.
10. Alzheimer’s Association
Website: alz.org
About the Organization: The Alzheimer’s Association leads the fight to end Alzheimer’s disease through global research, education, and advocacy.
Why We Like It:
- Emotional Appeal: Uses powerful storytelling and images to connect with visitors.
- Comprehensive Support: Offers a wealth of resources for patients and caregivers.
- Donation Simplicity: Intuitive donation options encourage support effortlessly.
7 Tips When Hiring an Agency to Build Your Website
Choosing the right agency to build your association’s website is a critical decision. A successful partnership can result in a powerful website that supports your mission, engages members, and drives your goals forward. However, not all agencies are the same, and finding the right fit requires careful consideration. Below are seven essential tips to help guide your decision-making process and ensure your new website meets your association’s unique needs.
1. Check Their Experience
Look for an agency with a proven track record of working with associations or nonprofits. Associations and nonprofits have unique needs, such as membership portals, advocacy tools, and event management integration. Agencies with relevant experience will understand these requirements and bring valuable insights to the table. During your search, ask about their past projects for similar organizations, the challenges they faced, and how they approached solving them. A seasoned agency can provide practical recommendations and innovative solutions tailored to your goals.
2. Review Their Portfolio
Take the time to carefully review the agency’s portfolio to assess the quality, design, and functionality of their previous work. A portfolio reflects the agency’s expertise and creative approach, giving you a sense of whether their style aligns with your vision. Look for websites that demonstrate modern, visually engaging designs, responsive layouts, and intuitive navigation. Pay attention to any projects that align closely with your needs, as these examples can be strong indicators of the agency’s ability to meet your expectations.
3. Discuss Your Goals
Make sure the agency is fully invested in understanding your mission, vision, and website objectives. A website is more than just a digital storefront—it’s a critical tool for achieving your organizational goals. An agency that listens carefully, asks thoughtful questions, and proposes strategies aligned with your needs demonstrates a deep understanding of your priorities. From increasing membership to hosting engaging events, ensure they have the expertise to translate your goals into a functional and impactful website.
4. Ask About Support Services
Inquire about the agency’s ability to provide ongoing support, including maintenance, hosting, and updates after launch. Websites need regular care to stay secure, functional, and relevant, and neglecting this can lead to costly issues down the road. Look for an agency that offers comprehensive post-launch services, such as troubleshooting, software updates, and content management. Understanding their support options upfront ensures that your website will continue to perform well and adapt to your evolving needs.
5. Focus on Accessibility
Accessibility should be a top priority when building your website. Beyond being a legal requirement, creating an inclusive digital experience reflects your organization’s commitment to serving all members of your community. A good agency will have expertise in building accessible websites that comply with ADA guidelines, incorporating features such as keyboard navigation, alt text for images, and appropriate color contrast. Ensure accessibility is integrated into the design and development process, so your website is usable by everyone, regardless of ability.
6. Consider Integration Needs
Your website should work seamlessly with the systems your organization already uses, such as CRM platforms, email marketing tools, and event management software. Integration is critical for streamlining your operations, improving user experience, and saving time for your staff. Discuss the platforms you currently rely on or plan to adopt and confirm the agency’s ability to integrate these tools effectively. An experienced agency can also suggest additional integrations to enhance your site’s functionality and impact.
7. Evaluate Their Process
Ensure the agency has a clear and collaborative workflow that guides the project from discovery to launch. A structured process helps keep the project on track, meets deadlines, and ensures your expectations are met at every stage. Look for an agency that prioritizes transparency, maintains consistent communication, and provides regular updates on progress. Their willingness to incorporate your feedback throughout the process will ensure the final product aligns with your vision and achieves your goals.
Final Thoughts
Hiring the right agency to build your association’s website is a crucial step toward creating a platform that drives your mission forward. By following these tips and carefully evaluating potential partners, you can build a website that serves as a cornerstone of your digital presence, engages your audience, and helps your association thrive.
