The District of Columbia Bar is the second largest legal bar in the U.S., with more than 100,000 members worldwide. In 2014, the D.C. Bar embarked on a strategic planning initiative to better serve its members and community, and achieve its goal of becoming a world-class, member-driven organization. Misner was engaged to examine the industry landscape, facilitate D.C. Bar member and staff opinions, and analyze its communications capabilities and effectiveness of its brand.

We conducted research comparing membership associations and organizations similar in size to the D.C. Bar. A comprehensive communications brand audit was performed to benchmark the organization with other industry associations and identify opportunities for success.

Primary research was conducted with D.C. Bar members and staff via a series of surveys, focus groups and one-on-one interviews. Our efforts also included development and execution of a Listening Tour with members from around the country. Findings established a foundation for the D.C. Bar 2020 five-year strategic plan.