Managing finances for associations, unions, and non-profits shouldn’t feel like running a marathon with no finish line. Yet, when your accounting system and membership software aren’t speaking the same language, that’s exactly how it can feel—slow, disjointed, and exhausting.
The data you use to make important business decisions is one of your most important assets. And when you have seamless integration between your:
- Accounting
- Membership management system
- Website
... you can gain a clear, 360° view of your membership.
Here are seven ways native accounting in membership software can make a difference for your organization.
7 Benefits of Native Accounting in Your Membership Management Platform
Find more details and tips in our free guide, Smarter Billing: Leveraging Native Accounting for Membership Success
1. Single Source of Truth (SSoT)
A Single Source of Truth brings all interactions with your members, donors, and supporters together in one database:
It also integrates your data with your website and accounting system. So you have a complete 360° view of your membership base, and how they interact with your association, union, or non-profit.
A Single Source of Truth (SSoT) is vital for associations, unions and non-profits of all sizes and types. It eliminates discrepancies that often arise from using multiple, disparate accounting systems.
2. Data Accuracy & Integrity
Data accuracy and integrity form the backbone of any successful association, union, or non-profit.
One core system that brings member, financial, and engagement data together. It also ensures you have accurate, real-time data you need and minimizes errors and omissions that frustrate members.
3. Real-Time Financial Insights
Membership management software with integrated accounting provides up-to-the-minute financial insights to generate comprehensive financial reports, ensure accurate billing, and monitor revenue.
Rather than pulling numbers from multiple spots, you can create dynamic dashboards to share with staff and stakeholders.
4. Member Convenience
Member convenience is a key factor in maintaining high levels of member satisfaction and engagement. With integrated member management, website, and native accounting functionalities, members can access self-service options at their convenience.
Because all of your member data is talking to each other, your members can do this all in one simple transaction:
- Register for a conference
- Buy a product
- Adjust quantities
- Take advantage of discounts
- Add, remove, or adjust their dues/membership fees
These self-service options allow members to access their account whenever and however it is most convenient for them. It also reduces the workload on your administrative staff.
5. Accurate Billing & Dues Management
The right membership management software can automate member billing and the dues management process. You bill members accurately and on time. Plus auto reminders/notifications increase timely collection rates, reducing the risk of missed payments.
Bonus: personalized pricing. With your member data, accounting, and website integrated, you can manage sophisticated billing and pricing scenarios. Members benefit from the personalization while your staff benefits from the automation and in-depth reporting.
6. Robust Reporting & Compliance
Compliance and detailed reporting are non-negotiable aspects of running a successful association, union, or non-profit.
Built-in accounting provides for detailed reporting that results in more confident decision-making. Processes are streamlined and improved — ensuring your organization easily meets any compliance requirements.
7. Time & Cost Savings
One of the most compelling benefits of native accounting is the significant time and cost savings it offers.
By automating your financial processes, your organization will save time and increase efficiency. Reconciliations and month-end closings are painless. Your staff is free from manual processes, clearing the way for them to focus on more important tasks.
This automation not only reduces operational costs but also minimizes the risk of human error, ensuring more efficient and effective organizational management.
From the 2024 Association Economic Outlook Report from Marketing General Inc.
The Bottom Line
With native accounting in your membership management software, you can:
- Streamline your processes
- Reduce the burden of manual data entry
- Minimize errors
- Deliver a better member experience