Is your nonprofit thinking about implementing a new software application? The process can be a bit overwhelming. However, with a little research and planning, you can make the transition seamless for everyone involved.
In the following software selection and implementation guide, we offer some helpful resources to help make the process as smooth as possible. Learn about what to look for, how technology impacts volunteer retention, why trusting the cloud makes sense, and much more.
Have a resource you’d like to add to the list? Tweet your ideas and helpful links to @VolunteerHub.
Software Selection and Implementation Guide
Trusting the Cloud
There’s been a lot of talk recently about “cloud computing.” But what exactly does the term mean? Is “the cloud” safe? Can it be trusted? This article answers these very important questions and spotlights how NPOs can leverage cloud technologies to improve efficiency. http://trust.guidestar.org/2012/04/05/trusting-the-cloud/
Taking Your NPO to the Cloud: What You Need to Know
Wondering if cloud technology is right for your nonprofit? Lyndsey Hrabik of Nonprofit Hub shares some valuable tips for organizations thinking about the cloud. As Hrabik points out, “The bottom line to consider with cloud technology is the ROI for your NPO.” http://www.nonprofithub.org/featured/taking-npo-cloud-need-know/
Top 10 Tips for Nonprofit Software Implementation Success
Before your nonprofit transitions to the cloud, read this article by Jeffrey Haguewood, co-founder of Sidekick Solutions. Build a solid nonprofit software implementation strategy by following his 10 tips for success. http://www.sidekicksolutionsllc.com/10-tips-for-nonprofit-software-implementation-success/
The Perfect Fit: A Guide to Evaluating and Purchasing Major Software Systems
The decision to purchase and implement a software application should never be taken lightly. After all, it’s an investment – one that could potentially reap many benefits for your organization. This guide, from Idealware, walks readers through the process of evaluating different software options, making a decision, and purchasing. It also provides some helpful tips for crafting a well-written Request for Proposal (RFP). http://www.idealware.org/articles/purchasing_major_systems.php
A Best Practices Checklist for Software Selection
What’s the best way to determine if a software system is a good fit for your nonprofit? How do you make sure everyone is on board with the idea? This article from The Nonprofit Times blog answers these questions and highlights several best practices to keep in mind when selecting new software. One great way to encourage staff buy-in is to “ask the various departments for their feedback” and have them share “two or three items that are most important to them.” http://www.thenonprofittimes.com/management-tips/a-best-practices-checklist-for-software-selection/
How Technology Impacts Volunteer Retention
Did you know? 30% of volunteers don’t come back the next year. What many nonprofits don’t realize is that social media and volunteer management technology can (and do) work hand-in-hand to impact retention. Learn how your nonprofit can leverage technology and social media to reduce volunteer churn. http://www.volunteerhub.com/blog/technology-impacts-volunteer-retention/
Volunteers: The Missing Link
Volunteers are a nonprofit’s most valuable resource. So how can technology help your organization achieve more goals? This article will help as you weigh your options. http://thirdsectortoday.com/2013/12/02/volunteers-the-missing-link/
Selecting Software for Your Nonprofit [White paper]
Want to get everyone on the same page? This step-by-step guide from Blackbaud will help you do just that. The free white paper walks readers through the entire software selection process and includes advice for analyzing your organization’s needs, conducting a search for the right software, preparing for implementation, and much more. https://www.blackbaud.com/files/resources/downloads/WhitePaper_SelectingSoftware.pdf
Why Inefficiencies Might Be Damaging Your Volunteer Relationships
Is your nonprofit leveraging technology to build trust and rapport with volunteers and donors? If not, you could be missing out on a major opportunity. This article, from the GuideStar Blog, explains the importance of “going mobile” and how doing so can simultaneously improve your relationships with constituents. http://trust.guidestar.org/2013/08/16/why-inefficiencies-might-be-damaging-your-volunteer-relationships/
Bookmark this page and check back often! As we come across new articles and resources relating to this topic, we will add them to the list.
