Association management companies are companies staffed with experienced professionals who provide management, administrative and leadership support to multiple volunteer-based organizations (membership and trade associations, charitable foundations and service organizations). Since the introduction of association management firms more than a century ago, hundreds of small and mid-sized organizations, and even large ones, have turned to association management companies to meet their needs.

Through the practice of shared resources, association management companies enable organizations to access highly trained professionals on an "as-needed" basis and benefit from the latest technologies at significant cost savings. Because an association management company serves as the organization’s headquarters, client organizations forego the expense of buying or leasing office space. There are also many additional governance and administrative benefits in this form of management.

Members will find little evidence that a professional management company manages your organization. Your phone number will be maintained, phone calls will be answered with your organization’s name, and your own listing will appear in phone books and association directories. Your association will maintain separate bank accounts, investment accounts, membership databases, vendor contracts (such as hotel and printing), educational programs, and promotional campaigns. Your executive director, together with a core team, will carry your business cards and consider themselves your staff. As such, they are dedicated to serving your needs.

An association management company is only as successful as its client organizations. When choosing an association management company, look for a firm that shares your goals and philosophy. You should expect your association management company to be dedicated to your long-term growth and success.

To help you with your assessment of this important management change, EAI provides the following resources:

• A complete outline of the benefits of professional management.
• A self-assessment to determine if you are ready to consider professional management.
• Recommendations on how to start the selection process.