We have published our
report offering guidance for how membership organisations can improve their member data.
Many organisations would like to know more about their members for a number of reasons, - so they can better understand their membership pipeline, better evaluate EDI initiatives or tailor initiatives to particular groups. However, knowing what data to collect, how to collect it and use it responsibly can be a challenge.
The report, funded by the Academy of Social Sciences and the Economic and Social Research Council, sets out practical tips on the most appropriate and effective ways to collect member data, how to choose the right diversity questions, and guidance on ensuring any data collection complies with data protection regulations.
Setting out three guiding principles of pragmatism, clarity and trustworthiness, the report encourages membership organisations to take a focussed view in their data collection, to be clear and realistic about what data is needed and ensuring members have trust in the process.
Recognising that one of the biggest hurdles for membership organisations is justifying the need to collect such data, the report highlights several hypothetical uses for improved member data, with a particular focus on how better diversity focus can improve an organisation’s EDI initiatives.
Commenting on the report, RSS Chief Executive Dr Sarah Cumbers, said ‘As a membership organisation, understanding your members is central to everything you do. Yet we know many organisations can struggle with deciding what data they need, what questions to ask, and how to explain the need for this information to members. This report is a valuable tool in setting out best practice, helping organisations build a clearer picture of their membership.’
Chief Executive, Dr Rita Gardner CBE FAcSS, said ‘The Academy of Social Sciences and its member social science societies welcome this report, which was funded through our joint EDI partnership with the Economic and Social Research Council. Sharing pragmatic guidance on the collection of member data to help improve our understanding of the composition of discipline-based membership organisations is vital to furthering their EDI initiatives, maximising the potential to effect real and positive change within the wider community.’
If you’re a membership organisation and would like to hear more about how the report can help you with your work, we will be holding an online Q&A, 1-3pm on Thursday 28 August. Register your interest by emailing
policy@rss.org.uk.
Read the report
Read the annex