The Membes Story

February 2024 marked 10 years since the launch of Membes Association Management System (AMS).

In 2014, this was a game changer for the association sector. A complete software solution that could meet the unique needs of member-based organisations at an affordable price, signaled the arrival of a better model of association management software. A new alternative to high-budget, custom built systems that remain static as technology moves on.

But it was long before this - back in 2003 when the story really began. A Melbourne-based software company - then known as Asset Media - identified a need amongst SMEs for complex web-based software (now known as Cloud software). It quickly built a reputation for developing bespoke software for a range of organisations with diverse purposes.

In particular, the team established a strong client base of professional associations and in those early years, acquired a deep understanding of their unique needs and complexities.

At that time, the software developed for associations was much simpler - a website with online membership, linked to a database and a secure interface for viewing records and communicating with members. And it was tailored to each association’s brief. But over time, the needs of the average association expanded to the point where the cost to deliver additional features on a made-to-order basis had become prohibitive for most mid-sized associations.

With a strong understanding of the pitfalls and challenges of the custom-made software model, and a deep appreciation of the critical role of associations in our society, the team embarked on a mission. A mission to design a system that would deliver the features and functionality associations require, at an affordable price.

Today, Membes is a stable commercial business with a proven track record in delivering advantages to customers beyond what is possible with a custom-made, bespoke system.   

The Membes team has remained committed to addressing the needs of the Australian association sector, while continually striving to build a better product. By growing as a business, Membes has been able to reinvest in enhancements to the Membes AMS platform for the benefit of all customers.

With associations today facing rising pressure to optimise spending, deliver tangible ROI, keep up with rapid advances in technology and data security requirements, it’s more important than ever to choose a future proof technology solution. One that offers peace of mind that it can adapt to a changing landscape and continue to meet the needs of associations into the future.

Membes now proudly supports almost 200 association customers across Australia and New Zealand with their daily operations, helping them work more efficiently and achieve better outcomes for their association and their members.