Building an engaged community isn’t just about having the right tools, it’s about knowing how to use them. In a recent client showcase webinar, we sat down with Kerry McGovern, Senior Director of Membership at the Association of Corporate Counsel (ACC), to explore how their multiple award-winning mobile app, ACC365 , became a standout success winning multiple industry awards and achieving over 7,000 users.
Here are the top 6 takeaways from ACC’s journey, and how you can apply them to your own member engagement strategy.
1. Success Starts with Collaboration
Kerry emphasized that the success of ACC365 came from cross-functional teamwork. From content creators to executive leadership, everyone played a role in ensuring the app delivered value to members.
“This project was only as successful as the inputs, we had content, integration, consistent member experience, and leadership support.”
2. Think Long-Term, Not Just Big Launches
After a strong first year, the ACC team avoided the “sophomore slump” by right-sizing their goals and focusing on sustainable engagement strategies.
They didn’t just aim for more downloads, they built systems that could scale and stay relevant long term, even exploring monetization strategies in year three.
3. Define Success Before You Launch
One of Kerry’s strongest recommendations is to define your success metrics clearly upfront.
“Start with outcomes. What does success look like? Everyone may answer that differently, so get aligned early.”
This included setting clear engagement and download targets, tracking member ratings, and using those insights to refine their approach.
4. Incentives Drive Engagement
To keep users engaged, ACC leaned into exclusive, time-sensitive incentives:
- Pre-release access to flagship research
- In-app-only discounts on renewals or events
- App-exclusive content promotions
5. Mobile Isn't Just a Mini Website
The app wasn't just a smaller version of ACC’s web experience, it was designed to complement it.
“We’re not replicating the membership experience. We’re enhancing it.”
ACC strategically integrated high-value features like job boards and customized push notifications that fit how members want to engage especially in different regions, like their newly launched chapter in Brazil.
6. Member-Centered Growth Strategy
ACC listens closely to its members, not just through feedback, but by analyzing engagement trends and adapting accordingly. Their mobile app is built not only to serve members today, but to scale and evolve with their needs into the future.
“Think about scalability from the start. Don’t launch everything at once. Start small, learn, then grow.”
Want to hear the full story directly from ACC?
Watch the full client showcase webinar here. To learn more about ACC's success with Clowder, check out a case study on how ACC Exceeds Expectations with Year-Round Mobile Engagement App.
Ready to Launch Your Own Mobile App?
Take the next step toward building a stronger, more connected member experience. Download the free “Launching a Mobile App: A Playbook for Year Round Member Engagement” packed with strategies, best practices, and real-world examples to guide your mobile app success.
