ABDO members consultation survey

ABDO undertook an in-depth consultation with members in early 2024. Carried out by Hall Associates on behalf of the Association, the consultation consisted of an online survey emailed to all members, with an invitation to engage in a follow-up telephone interview.

Hall Associates spoke to 105 members.

Key findings

Most respondents were ‘satisfied’ with their membership and the majority would recommend it to others.

  • Those who were ‘dissatisfied’ with their membership were particularly concerned about the cost of membership relative to salaries – and would like to see ABDO do more to improve the recognition of DOs and encourage higher pay
  • Most respondents (86 per cent) felt they were receiving the right level and type of communication – however, some suggested there could be more targeted emails, and more information about the Association
  • Respondents were very positive about ABDO’s CPD provision – particularly online peer review and roadshows – and rated it as the most important benefit followed by Dispensing Optics
  • Some respondents were very engaged with ABDO, while the majority had a more ‘arm’s length’ relationship and limited awareness of the wider benefits the membership brings
  • Some respondents felt concerned by a perceived lack of public recognition of the profession and would like to see more done to raise the profile of ABDO, DOs and the qualifications required in order to practise
  • The majority of students who responded (94 per cent) said they would be interested in becoming full members in the future
  • Some felt the ABDO website was quite hard to navigate and would like ABDO to address this

What's next?

Having analysed and discussed the findings of the consultation across all departments, we are now focusing on addressing them, this will be central to our Annual Plan for 2025.

In response to feedback from members on communications, the following actions have been taken:

  • The ‘Student/members’ tab on the ABDO website homepage has been changed to ‘Members dashboard’ to improve navigation
  • A guide to using the members’ online dashboard has appeared in eNews
  • A monthly eNews spotlight on member benefits has been introduced
  • A feature on member benefits has been published in Dispensing Optics
  • A dedicated CPD eNews has been launched, providing more targeted and focused information on what’s available both on and offline
  • A dedicated examinations eNews has been launched, providing a more targeted and focused information for students
  • New CPD news and FAQ pages have been added to the ABDO website to make it easier for members to find information.

We we be sharing our progress and plans on DOOnline, watch out for our features.