Ecosystem Economics for Modern Associations

Ecosystem Economics for Modern Associations: How Participation, Governance, and Platform Thinking Reshape Value Creation

The Economic Blueprint for Association Transformation

Unlock the Economic Logic of Modern Association Management

In an era where traditional membership models are failing, associations need more than strategy—they need economic understanding. Ecosystem Economics for Modern Associations provides the analytical foundation for transforming your organisation from a service provider into a dynamic platform orchestrator.

What You’ll Master:

• Platform Economics: Harness network effects, transaction cost theory, and multi-sided markets to create exponential value through member interaction and co-creation
• Ethical Monetisation: Navigate the delicate balance between financial sustainability and mission alignment with frameworks for transparent, trust-based revenue generation
• Governance as Economic Infrastructure: Transform governance from oversight to ecosystem stewardship, managing systemic risks while enabling sustainable value exchange
• Value Co-Creation Models: Move beyond linear service delivery to enable peer-to-peer collaboration and multi-stakeholder participation

Practical Tools for Implementation:

Built for immediate application, this book includes diagnostic frameworks, strategic matrices, and evaluation tools designed for boardrooms and strategic planning. Features the Platform-Enhanced Business Model Canvas and Contribution-Incentive Alignment Matrix.

Perfect For:

• Association CEOs and Strategic Leaders

• Board Directors and Governance Professionals

• Company Secretaries and Risk Managers

• NFP Leaders Seeking Sustainable Growth

Why This Book Matters:

Written by governance expert Sean M Johnson, this work fills a critical gap in association literature by providing the economic scaffolding necessary for platform-based transformation. Grounded in Australian regulatory context with real-world case studies.

Ready to understand the economics of association transformation? This is your essential guide.

Companion to The Modern Association Playbook - together they provide complete strategic and economic frameworks for association leadership.

About the Author

Sean M Johnson is a seasoned governance advisor and company secretary based in Townsville, Queensland, with extensive experience in association management and platform economics.