4 Nonprofit Technology Tips for 2024

The end of the year is a great time to think about how your nonprofit is using technology. The software your nonprofit uses supports everything from your fundraising and marketing to programs, advocacy, and more. That’s why it’s so important to take time to make sure you’re using technology strategically for your nonprofit. And that means doing things like using the right mix of technology for your organization, getting the most out of the software you already have, and experimenting with new technologies.

With these ideas in mind, here are four nonprofit technology tips to take your organization into 2024 and beyond:

1. Understand Today’s Nonprofit Technology Marketplace

There are arguably more nonprofit software choices today than ever before. The nonprofit technology marketplace is also continually changing, making it challenging to keep up. However, it’s well worth it to keep an eye on what’s available so that your nonprofit can work toward your mission as efficiently as possible and keep pace with constituent expectations.

For example, you might reach a point when your software becomes outdated and difficult to use. Or a technology provider might sunset or discontinue one of your software products. Or you might find that your nonprofit’s needs are growing in new ways that your older software can’t support.

At these times, it’s helpful to know about technology options in the marketplace. Some of the most common types of software that nonprofit are using today to run their organizations include:

• Donor management or constituent relationship management (CRM).
• Online fundraising.
• Peer-to-peer fundraising.
• Online marketing.
• Volunteer management.
• Event management.
• Specialized tools — including marketing automation, artificial intelligence (AI), matching gifts and wealth screening — that may be stand-alone tools or may be capabilities within other software packages.

2. Optimize Your Nonprofit’s Existing Software

It’s common for nonprofits to have software that they’ve been using for several years. Often, they’re using only a portion of its capabilities. So take the time to assess what key software products your nonprofit has in place. Look into what capabilities are available and consider putting more of your software’s features to use. Here are some things to look for.

Gap filler. Many software platforms include tools for things like process automation, artificial intelligence, constituent engagement scoring, and reporting/analytics. If you’re thinking about purchasing new software to help your organization achieve specific objectives and goals, check to see if your existing software already has the features you’re seeking. You might find that you already have what you need.

Overlapping capabilities. In addition to looking to see if you already have the tools you need within the software you already own, keep an eye out for overlapping capabilities. You might find that you no longer need some of the software you’re paying for.  

New ways to improve efficiency and achieve your mission. While you’re reviewing the tools available in your existing software, think about new ways to put tools to work to automate routine manual processes, gain new insights into your donors and other constituents, and simplify the process of monitoring key performance metrics for your organization.

3. Experiment With New Technologies

While it’s important to make sure you have the right software in place for your nonprofit’s core needs and that you’re using it optimally, it can also be helpful to experiment with new technologies that you might not already have in place. 

Many of today’s tools and technology strategies can help your organization accomplish more, engage more effectively with your constituents, and deliver greater impact for your mission. These tools include:

• Dynamic asks.
• Matching gifts.
• Donation form enhancements.
• Constituent engagement scoring.
• Marketing and process automation tools.
• Artificial intelligence.

4. Commit to More Software Training for Your Nonprofit’s Staff

Organizations often think of software training as a one-time activity that happens when new software is installed. But there are many benefits to investing in ongoing training. Here are a few examples.

Staff efficiency. Your staff members will work more efficiently, getting more done for your mission, when they are comfortable with how your software works and can continually learn how to use it better.

Reduced errors. When employees understand how to use your organization’s software and related processes, they are more likely to use it consistently, resulting in fewer process and data errors.

Better use of funds. When your staff is well-trained, your organization will use its software to the fullest and reduce the need for additional software support, thereby being good stewards of your technology investment. 

Reduced staff turnover. Your staff is more likely to be satisfied with their jobs and stay with your organization longer if they feel confident working with the software they use to get their jobs done.

Keep in mind that many software vendors offer on-demand training options for little or no cost, making it a small investment with big benefits.

The preceding blog was provided by an individual unaffiliated with NonProfit PRO. The views expressed within do not directly reflect the thoughts or opinions of NonProfit PRO.