Home About Me Subscribe Zen and the Art of Nonprofit Technology Thoughtful and sometimes snarky perspectives on nonprofit technology Open content business models December 1, 2007 I’m at the Open Translation event, and we’ve just had a great session on open content business models. In general, it seems like most models depend on some sort of up-front funding, whether it be an investment or a grant, to fund the initial writing of a large amount of content. MORE
But the future is, as Jeff says, being generative , or as he quotes Kevin Kelly, having generosity as a business model. "We Read this great post from Jeff De Cagna. I am currently taking an ASAE online course, CEO Dialogue: Leading Associations in the 21st Century. This week (week 4 of 6) we're talking about "Strategic Technology", or technology as a strategic imperative. This is all the stuff I know about - yay!! MORE
Whenever I am on the road with clients the conversation always turns to a debate about the value of predictive modeling vs. the value of traditional wealth screening. Some tend to gravitate toward wealth data alone because it feels more tangible—or understandable—than predictive modeling. MORE
“Nonprofit” is a tax status, not a business model. NOT a business model. It’s a deliberate choice and, for some, a business model – TOMS being the most obvious example of the day. I know this isn’t all that original, but I have to say it. MORE
It seems as the economic modeling for recovery and growth are running off models developed in the great depression (3 to 5 years of slow 2% growth) and the many economic down turns since. Those models are wrong. I am not an economics guy. MORE
Our first effort to define the discipline is our Community Maturity Model: This model does two things. One of our missions at The Community Roundtable is to further the discipline of community management – not just in our own community but more broadly in the marketplace. First, it defines the eight competencies we think are required for successful community management. MORE
Social analytics are fueling a more predictive model | TMA Resources : Social media has played an increasingly important role in organizations'' client engagement strategy as firms look to monitor interactions on these channels for valuable insight and foster new relationships MORE
Then you must nominate them to Taproot Foundation’s first-ever Pro Bono Role Model of the Year. The winner will receive the title of Taproot Foundation’s first-ever Pro Bono Role Model of the Year and represent the foundation at the 2011 National Conference on Volunteering and Service from June 6 – 8 in New Orleans, Louisiana! Do you know a mom or dad who is a professional superhero? MORE
At one point, Mark commented that they have a "deliberately unsustainable" business model. This is the model that governs most businesses and artistic endeavors. Tags: business models MORE
Predictive Modeling uses “big data” to help predict the future. This predictive model can help you with understanding the real-time health of your event to ensure that you will hit your goals by event day. Predictive Modeling for Fundraising Events. MORE
What is a Content Model? Content Modeling is a hot topic in the Information Architecture community these days. A content model is a document defining the structure of each content type within a CMS , or Content Management System. Why do I need a Content Model? MORE
No one model is better than the others. Nor should they even be seen as progressive steps towards a model of “maximal participation.” Participatory projects are most successful when you can find the right model for your staff culture, your users, and your goals. MORE
So why do so many associations still rely on a completely closed off model? Furthermore, as they increase their level of participation with opt-ins and upgrades, you can begin to paint a more general picture of what the future of your association can look like with your new model. MORE
4 Steps Toward Open Data Business Models : By now, ‘open data for the social sector,’ ‘open data for the public sector,’ or ‘open data for hackers’ all roll quasi-easily off the tongue. The concept of ‘open data business models,’ on the other hand, still has many experts in the field scratching their heads MORE
Remember this post about how to flip your publishing model ? And the case study we looked at through the Virginia Associations of Realtors’ example ? I just came across this great post from NTEN about how they did just that. This new strategy means we’re driving a lot of traffic to NTEN.org overall: We’re up 24% year-over-year in 2011. MORE
You have success with attracting new members, it’s the retaining them bit that needs some work. Wait a minute… you already have some super-members who’re extremely passionate about your organization. They’re loyal and willing. So what’s the problem exactly? Well, do you have a killer onboarding process? webinar growth summit robbie-kellman-baxter MORE
Analytics Data Mining & Modeling Fundraising Success & Performance marketing model predictiveUtilizing predictive analytics is designed to allow organizations to make smarter decisions about how to spend resources. MORE
I have often written about the Veterinary Information Network’s (VIN’s ) virtual membership and business models. At a recent visit at VIN’s headquarters in Davis, California, I was struck by the realization that developmental learning is the basis of every aspect of VIN’s model and practice. MORE
Some notable businesses operating under the B Corp model include Ben & Jerry’s and Warby Parker. While this model works for some people, it’s definitely not for everybody. Business models don’t have to be scary—they can help you succeed. MORE
Allison Fine and I have been noodling with an evaluation model that looks social media from an organizational perspective - from social networks to social capital (relationships) to action in the real world. These points also make me think about an organizational listening/learning model. MORE
You have success with attracting new members, it’s the retaining them bit that needs some work. Wait a minute… you already have some super-members who’re extremely passionate about your organization. They’re loyal and willing. So what’s the problem exactly? Well, do you have a killer onboarding process? webinar growth summit robbie-kellman-baxter MORE
The Giving Days Model: Collaboration, Federation, or Unification? - NPQ - Nonprofit Quarterly : "Charities are always seeking a new way to increase the size of the donor base. Conventional wisdom holds that getting large numbers of donors in—even at small levels—can begin a conversation about the value a nonprofit brings to its mission. A relationship that begins with a gift can evolve into ongoing financial and community support. MORE
Like many people in the arts, I'm interested in new models that help people combine mission-driven work with an entrepreneurial spirit. A company in which employees are co-owners might translate well to a coop model. Tags: business models MORE
We’re already a month into 2013, and for many, those New Year’s resolutions are becoming a little less resolute every day. It’s a curious phenomenon we all see each year in gyms, classes and homes. MORE
Is the ALS Ice Bucket Challenge a Model for Jewish Fundraising? The Facebook frenzy created by the ALS Ice Bucket Challenge has now been replaced by back-to-school photographs, but the results have left leading Jewish organizations asking themselves, “Is this the fundraising wave of the future?” “I I don’t believe fundraising is going in that direction,” said J.M. Schapiro, 2014-15 fundraising campaign chair for The Associated: Jewish Community Federation of Baltimore. - MORE
It uses a logic model. A huge big salute goes out to Priscilla Brice-Weller at Solidariti for finding this excellent resource - The Advocacy Progress Planner , by Continuous Progress. It's an online tool campaigners can use to map out campaign actions, and also assess the campaign afterwards. I would love to see this for a marketing campaign with a social media component MORE
While there is little consensus on a “single best practice”, three distinct models have emerged and are recognizable as the most prevalent. For an organization assessing its own structure, this blog is intended to provide a simplified basis for self-comparison against each of the three models. MORE
Each direction is very different, using a different data model (see below for lots more on that) and approach. So how is it always about the data model? A nonprofit typically has a very different ownership/sharing model. MORE
Data scientists and prospect researchers on the nonprofit payroll are working side by side to mine data within the nonprofit’s information system and create models that predict who is likely to give—and who is not. Analytics is all the rage in development offices. MORE
In the panel Rethinking Strategy: The Intersection of Impact, Brand, and Business Model, three experts defined these terms and illustrated their use for effective nonprofit communications. Model Behavior. Delivery and communications are the business model. MORE
Why don't people come back to museums? We've all heard the excuses: "I've already seen it all," says the family that visited half the exhibits. You don't change things often enough," says the person who conveniently deletes monthly emails with info on new exhibits and programs. MORE
For example, in higher education the campaign model of fundraising with deadlines, competition among classes, naming opportunities, and sense of urgency may be tailored more to male preferences than to female. MORE
To explain why, let’s consider the two most frequently used tools: wealth screening and custom modeling. The second option, called modeling, provides custom, predicative insight about prospects who are likely to take an action with a specific organization. MORE
Social enterprise models may well offer an answer. Should nonprofits become more aggressive in adopting new business models that can add needed revenue? What are the downsides and dangers in pursuing new models? One answer to these questions may be the social enterprise model, which has the potential to revolutionize both the nonprofit and for-profit sectors. These social enterprise efforts can add a business model by creating sustainable revenue. MORE
I presented a session yesterday at the Association Media & Publishing Association’s annual meeting on Flipping Your Publishing Model, a subject close to our hearts which Lindy wrote about last year. I was excited to showcase one association, VAR, who is doing this to great effect (explanation below), and I’m very grateful to the superstar that is Andrew Kantor who agreed to talk through what they do at VAR. MORE
business modelsIf you want to drink the best beer in the world, you'd better be ready to work for it. MORE
Institutions like the Boston Children's Museum (which she helped lead in the 1970s) drew heavily from and worked in partnership with the "open classroom" movement to develop informal educational models that are interactive, open-ended, and individualized. MORE
In this second part of the series, Alice Antonelli, Director for Advisory Services at NFF, shares more terrific advice and insights on financial health and nonprofit business models. Best Practices for Nonprofit Financial Health, Part Two: Smart Nonprofit Business Models. MORE
Her monthly column for us will focus on what Anna calls “the building blocks for constructing new membership and business models” for associations. I have been preaching model change for years. Don’t just play on the periphery; transform your entire organizational model. MORE
The copy is a model of self-restraint. HealthCare.gov , the federal web site that is officially charged with helping consumers make sense of the new health insurance landscape, was substantially improved this month. For starters, they added information from over 200 insurers on 4,400 plans. MORE
So, I have a lot more thinking to do about this, but maybe the ideas behind agile planning could be developed into some usable model or template for how to get started in moving towards strategic thinking, responsiveness, innovation and creativity - over linear strategic planning, slow reactivity and risk aversion, rigidity of thinking and top-level-dominated leadership. I had a bit of an epiphany this weekend. MORE
A logic model helps to visualize those details and highlight the connection between a program's purpose and the programs results, and it helps you make sure you're measuring the right things so you can show success! Ananda Roberts. President. nFocus Solutions. MORE
DISRUPTION: Evolving Models of Engagement and Support. My colleagues at The Monitor Institute just published a study called “ Disruption: Evolving Models of Engagement and Support ,&# a national study of member-based advocacy organizations. MORE
Model Related Topics 
Connection Cafe
JUNE 19, 2017
Predictive Modeling uses “big data” to help predict the future. This predictive model can help you with understanding the real-time health of your event to ensure that you will hit your goals by event day. Predictive Modeling for Fundraising Events.
Connection Cafe
MARCH 4, 2016
While there is little consensus on a “single best practice”, three distinct models have emerged and are recognizable as the most prevalent. For an organization assessing its own structure, this blog is intended to provide a simplified basis for self-comparison against each of the three models.
Connection Cafe
FEBRUARY 16, 2017
Whenever I am on the road with clients the conversation always turns to a debate about the value of predictive modeling vs. the value of traditional wealth screening. Some tend to gravitate toward wealth data alone because it feels more tangible—or understandable—than predictive modeling.
Connection Cafe
OCTOBER 16, 2012
Analytics Data Mining & Modeling Fundraising Success & Performance marketing model predictiveUtilizing predictive analytics is designed to allow organizations to make smarter decisions about how to spend resources.
Connection Cafe
JUNE 22, 2015
What is a Content Model? Content Modeling is a hot topic in the Information Architecture community these days. A content model is a document defining the structure of each content type within a CMS , or Content Management System. Why do I need a Content Model?
Connection Cafe
JUNE 14, 2013
“Nonprofit” is a tax status, not a business model. NOT a business model. It’s a deliberate choice and, for some, a business model – TOMS being the most obvious example of the day. I know this isn’t all that original, but I have to say it.
Museum 2.0
MARCH 9, 2009
At one point, Mark commented that they have a "deliberately unsustainable" business model. This is the model that governs most businesses and artistic endeavors. Tags: business models
Connection Cafe
APRIL 7, 2016
For example, in higher education the campaign model of fundraising with deadlines, competition among classes, naming opportunities, and sense of urgency may be tailored more to male preferences than to female.
AFP Blog
MAY 21, 2013
Social analytics are fueling a more predictive model | TMA Resources : Social media has played an increasingly important role in organizations'' client engagement strategy as firms look to monitor interactions on these channels for valuable insight and foster new relationships
Judi Sohn
SEPTEMBER 5, 2011
Each direction is very different, using a different data model (see below for lots more on that) and approach. So how is it always about the data model? A nonprofit typically has a very different ownership/sharing model.
NTEN
SEPTEMBER 6, 2013
A logic model helps to visualize those details and highlight the connection between a program's purpose and the programs results, and it helps you make sure you're measuring the right things so you can show success! Ananda Roberts. President. nFocus Solutions.
AFP Blog
JANUARY 22, 2015
The Giving Days Model: Collaboration, Federation, or Unification? - NPQ - Nonprofit Quarterly : "Charities are always seeking a new way to increase the size of the donor base. Conventional wisdom holds that getting large numbers of donors in—even at small levels—can begin a conversation about the value a nonprofit brings to its mission. A relationship that begins with a gift can evolve into ongoing financial and community support.
BoardAssist
APRIL 4, 2017
In this second part of the series, Alice Antonelli, Director for Advisory Services at NFF, shares more terrific advice and insights on financial health and nonprofit business models. Best Practices for Nonprofit Financial Health, Part Two: Smart Nonprofit Business Models.
AFP Blog
SEPTEMBER 8, 2014
Is the ALS Ice Bucket Challenge a Model for Jewish Fundraising? The Facebook frenzy created by the ALS Ice Bucket Challenge has now been replaced by back-to-school photographs, but the results have left leading Jewish organizations asking themselves, “Is this the fundraising wave of the future?” “I I don’t believe fundraising is going in that direction,” said J.M. Schapiro, 2014-15 fundraising campaign chair for The Associated: Jewish Community Federation of Baltimore. -
Museum 2.0
JUNE 20, 2012
business modelsIf you want to drink the best beer in the world, you'd better be ready to work for it.
SocialFish
JANUARY 17, 2012
Her monthly column for us will focus on what Anna calls “the building blocks for constructing new membership and business models” for associations. I have been preaching model change for years. Don’t just play on the periphery; transform your entire organizational model.
SocialFish
OCTOBER 26, 2015
So why do so many associations still rely on a completely closed off model? Furthermore, as they increase their level of participation with opt-ins and upgrades, you can begin to paint a more general picture of what the future of your association can look like with your new model.
NonProfit Hub
JULY 13, 2015
Some notable businesses operating under the B Corp model include Ben & Jerry’s and Warby Parker. While this model works for some people, it’s definitely not for everybody. Business models don’t have to be scary—they can help you succeed.
Beth's Blog: How Nonprofits Can Use Social Media
NOVEMBER 19, 2007
It uses a logic model. A huge big salute goes out to Priscilla Brice-Weller at Solidariti for finding this excellent resource - The Advocacy Progress Planner , by Continuous Progress. It's an online tool campaigners can use to map out campaign actions, and also assess the campaign afterwards. I would love to see this for a marketing campaign with a social media component
Beth's Blog: How Nonprofits Can Use Social Media
MAY 24, 2011
DISRUPTION: Evolving Models of Engagement and Support. My colleagues at The Monitor Institute just published a study called “ Disruption: Evolving Models of Engagement and Support ,&# a national study of member-based advocacy organizations.
Network-Centric Advocacy
FEBRUARY 18, 2009
It seems as the economic modeling for recovery and growth are running off models developed in the great depression (3 to 5 years of slow 2% growth) and the many economic down turns since. Those models are wrong. I am not an economics guy.
ASU Lodestar Center
MAY 18, 2016
Social enterprise models may well offer an answer. Should nonprofits become more aggressive in adopting new business models that can add needed revenue? What are the downsides and dangers in pursuing new models? One answer to these questions may be the social enterprise model, which has the potential to revolutionize both the nonprofit and for-profit sectors. These social enterprise efforts can add a business model by creating sustainable revenue.
SocialFish
DECEMBER 8, 2011
Remember this post about how to flip your publishing model ? And the case study we looked at through the Virginia Associations of Realtors’ example ? I just came across this great post from NTEN about how they did just that. This new strategy means we’re driving a lot of traffic to NTEN.org overall: We’re up 24% year-over-year in 2011.
Influence
OCTOBER 22, 2010
The copy is a model of self-restraint. HealthCare.gov , the federal web site that is officially charged with helping consumers make sense of the new health insurance landscape, was substantially improved this month. For starters, they added information from over 200 insurers on 4,400 plans.
SocialFish
JUNE 3, 2011
I presented a session yesterday at the Association Media & Publishing Association’s annual meeting on Flipping Your Publishing Model, a subject close to our hearts which Lindy wrote about last year. I was excited to showcase one association, VAR, who is doing this to great effect (explanation below), and I’m very grateful to the superstar that is Andrew Kantor who agreed to talk through what they do at VAR.
Beth's Blog: How Nonprofits Can Use Social Media
JUNE 12, 2009
Allison Fine and I have been noodling with an evaluation model that looks social media from an organizational perspective - from social networks to social capital (relationships) to action in the real world. These points also make me think about an organizational listening/learning model.
SocialFish
FEBRUARY 12, 2008
But the future is, as Jeff says, being generative , or as he quotes Kevin Kelly, having generosity as a business model. "We Read this great post from Jeff De Cagna. I am currently taking an ASAE online course, CEO Dialogue: Leading Associations in the 21st Century. This week (week 4 of 6) we're talking about "Strategic Technology", or technology as a strategic imperative. This is all the stuff I know about - yay!!
SocialFish
DECEMBER 3, 2012
I have often written about the Veterinary Information Network’s (VIN’s ) virtual membership and business models. At a recent visit at VIN’s headquarters in Davis, California, I was struck by the realization that developmental learning is the basis of every aspect of VIN’s model and practice.
Beth's Blog: How Nonprofits Can Use Social Media
MAY 7, 2010
No one model is better than the others. Nor should they even be seen as progressive steps towards a model of “maximal participation.” Participatory projects are most successful when you can find the right model for your staff culture, your users, and your goals.
Museum 2.0
MAY 3, 2010
Like many people in the arts, I'm interested in new models that help people combine mission-driven work with an entrepreneurial spirit. A company in which employees are co-owners might translate well to a coop model. Tags: business models
Frogloop
OCTOBER 22, 2010
Then you must nominate them to Taproot Foundation’s first-ever Pro Bono Role Model of the Year. The winner will receive the title of Taproot Foundation’s first-ever Pro Bono Role Model of the Year and represent the foundation at the 2011 National Conference on Volunteering and Service from June 6 – 8 in New Orleans, Louisiana! Do you know a mom or dad who is a professional superhero?
Network-Centric Advocacy
APRIL 26, 2010
Our first effort to define the discipline is our Community Maturity Model: This model does two things. One of our missions at The Community Roundtable is to further the discipline of community management – not just in our own community but more broadly in the marketplace. First, it defines the eight competencies we think are required for successful community management.
Connection Cafe
OCTOBER 9, 2017
Data scientists and prospect researchers on the nonprofit payroll are working side by side to mine data within the nonprofit’s information system and create models that predict who is likely to give—and who is not. Analytics is all the rage in development offices.
Museum 2.0
FEBRUARY 5, 2008
Institutions like the Boston Children's Museum (which she helped lead in the 1970s) drew heavily from and worked in partnership with the "open classroom" movement to develop informal educational models that are interactive, open-ended, and individualized.
Tech Soup Blog
SEPTEMBER 21, 2011
In the panel Rethinking Strategy: The Intersection of Impact, Brand, and Business Model, three experts defined these terms and illustrated their use for effective nonprofit communications. Model Behavior. Delivery and communications are the business model.
Wild Apricot Blog
MARCH 22, 2016
You have success with attracting new members, it’s the retaining them bit that needs some work. Wait a minute… you already have some super-members who’re extremely passionate about your organization. They’re loyal and willing. So what’s the problem exactly? Well, do you have a killer onboarding process? webinar growth summit robbie-kellman-baxter
Museum 2.0
MARCH 3, 2008
Why don't people come back to museums? We've all heard the excuses: "I've already seen it all," says the family that visited half the exhibits. You don't change things often enough," says the person who conveniently deletes monthly emails with info on new exhibits and programs.
Wild Apricot Blog
MARCH 15, 2016
You have success with attracting new members, it’s the retaining them bit that needs some work. Wait a minute… you already have some super-members who’re extremely passionate about your organization. They’re loyal and willing. So what’s the problem exactly? Well, do you have a killer onboarding process? webinar growth summit robbie-kellman-baxter
SocialFish
FEBRUARY 27, 2008
So, I have a lot more thinking to do about this, but maybe the ideas behind agile planning could be developed into some usable model or template for how to get started in moving towards strategic thinking, responsiveness, innovation and creativity - over linear strategic planning, slow reactivity and risk aversion, rigidity of thinking and top-level-dominated leadership. I had a bit of an epiphany this weekend.
See What's Out There
FEBRUARY 7, 2013
We’re already a month into 2013, and for many, those New Year’s resolutions are becoming a little less resolute every day. It’s a curious phenomenon we all see each year in gyms, classes and homes.
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