Aptify

Government Relations staff members are usually not focused on association operations and often times they don’t even use the same database. There are indeed requirements for a GR professional that demand the use of specialized software and there are many great options out there to help. From our viewpoint though, it is important to pull back information into the AMS system and push data from the AMS into the GR package to maximize the impact in both areas.

First off, let’s talk about engagement – one of the prime reasons companies and individuals join certain associations is the impact that association may have on their industry or profession on the national or local political scene. Knowing the member’s network and leveraging it for impact in policy is a huge value add for the GR professional. Many times this information is in an AMS but not in the GR package. Additionally, in cases where the AMS has been integrated with public social networks like LinkedIn or Facebook, it is possible to directly tap into the social network of the member to drive more visibility for important issues. (this requires the member’s consent, of course).

Additionally, the feedback from members on different bills is particularly key to ensure the association is staying in touch with its constituents. New software platforms such as Votility, an Aptify partner, help organizations measure overall public views on various topics, and the specific views of their constituents. The integration between packages like this and the AMS can add immense value in measuring and increasing member engagement, and it can also increase the outreach capacity of the GR organization.

Don’t leave GR on an island, integrate!