AI in Associations: Promise, Pitfalls, and Practicality

AI in Associations: Promise, Pitfalls, and Practicality

According to an article in Association Analytics by Merritt Rohlfing, artificial intelligence is making waves in the association industry. It is being widely adopted across events, operations, and member engagement. From content generation to sponsor-attendee matchmaking and automated chatbots, AI in associations presents opportunities to enhance efficiency, save time, and improve the member experience. 

However, the reality of AI’s capabilities often falls short of the hype. While automation can streamline tasks, there is no perfect solution. Rohlfing says that over-reliance on AI-generated content risks diminishing credibility, as poorly vetted outputs can erode trust and institutional reputation. Concerns about AI inaccuracies, such as chatbot hallucinations, highlight the need for oversight. Furthermore, while executives view AI as a productivity booster, employees may see it as a job threat, impacting morale and institutional knowledge retention.

Data security is another pressing issue. Associations must consider how AI platforms handle sensitive information, as recent legal disputes over data use underscore the risks of sharing proprietary content with third-party AI systems.

Looking ahead, AI in associations will continue to evolve, offering new efficiencies and insights. Associations should explore its potential but remain cautious, balancing innovation with strategic oversight. 

Thoughtful adoption, grounded in clear objectives and ethical considerations, will determine whether AI becomes a transformative tool or a liability. A measured, informed approach is key to ensuring AI serves the association’s mission without compromising trust, quality, or security.