Earlier this year, many of you took part in the CAPIO member satisfaction survey. We value hearing directly from our members about their experiences, needs, and perceptions of the organization. As CAPIO continues to see phenomenal growth, it is imperative that the Board of Directors ensures that the organization’s vision and mission stay on track.

The 2024 survey, with 150 participants, shows CAPIO’s ongoing evolution to meet members’ changing needs. Here are the key findings from our 2024 survey.

Member Satisfaction and Value at an all-time high

Survey results reveal CAPIO is excelling in keeping members happy. A record 99.3% of members expressed satisfaction—up from 95% in 2019. The number who find CAPIO offers “great value” jumped from 35.6% in 2019 to 62.7% in 2024.

• Other key highlights: Generally positive trend in member satisfaction and the likelihood of recommending CAPIO to colleagues.
• Feedback highlights the value of networking, professional development, and resources offered by CAPIO.

Engagement and Retention

• 34% of respondents have maintained membership for over five years, showing strong retention.
• The survey noted a decline in interest in board positions since 2019.
• Committee participation, increased from 14% in 2019 to 20% in 2024.
• Interest in professional development and training remains high, reflecting a steady engagement in CAPIO’s learning opportunities.

Training and Professional Development

CAPIO remains focused on training and professional development, with over 80% of members satisfied with the quality and variety of offerings.

• The survey recorded an ongoing high satisfaction rate for training, with participants valuing concise sessions of 1-2 hours.
• Preferences are shifting towards in-person experiences, rebounding post-pandemic.
• Advanced topics, social media strategies, and community engagement continue to be favored training subjects.

Awareness of CAPIO Offerings

Generally, awareness of CAPIO offerings is high or have rebounded, and with this feedback, we will focus on increasing awareness for CAPIO Speaks and the Academy through targeted communication and engagement strategies.

• J. Lindsey Wolf – Rebound in awareness
• Mentoring – Increased awareness
• Conference – Good awareness
• APR – High awareness
• CAPIO Speaks – Decreased awareness
• Academy – Moderate awareness
• Summit – Good awareness

Online vs. In-person Networking

• The popularity of in-person networking has resurged, with members expressing a preference for quarterly regional meetings.
• Digital engagement, which peaked during the pandemic, has waned but still holds relevance.
• CAPIO’s newsletter, “CAPIO Communicator,” remains a valued resource.

Resource Utilization and Website Suggestions

• Usage of CAPIO’s job postings and Facebook group has risen, while reliance on the membership roster has declined to 37%.
• Respondents suggested an updated resource library, streamlined access to templates, and more showcases of award-winning projects.

Qualitative Feedback

• While CAPIO is praised for its professionalism and supportive community, a few concerns were raised about the high cost of membership and event attendance.
• Some members also noted conferences need more advanced topics and offerings.

Looking forward

As CAPIO plans, the 2024 survey provides valuable insights to guide upcoming initiatives. With high satisfaction, strong networking opportunities, and a focus on professional development, CAPIO is poised to continue leading in California communications and setting the standard for excellence nationwide.

Thank you to all who participated in sharing your thoughts. Your feedback helps shape the future of government communications.

Let’s continue to level up our profession together. We are CAPIO.

-CAPIO Board of Directors

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