As the economic environment becomes more challenging, and it becomes harder to secure funding from the government and donations from people, nonprofits need to use technology to improve productivity, efficiency, and security.
#1 Good Constituent Relationship Management (CRM) Software
The right CRM software can enhance your nonprofit by helping you manage your connections with donors, clients, and volunteers. The best CRM for nonprofits is made by companies like Sumac by Silent Partner — with even the most basic version of the software offering core functionality.
In fact, Sumac offers its impressive CRM free of cost to nonprofits that qualify. Companies that need advanced options such as donation pages, membership management, case management, and course registration can purchase cost-effective add-ons.
The CRM has an uncomplicated user-friendly interface and a short learning curve for straightforward tech rollout on your company computers. What’s more, it carries live phone support, so you don’t need necessarily access to an in-house IT department.
In addition, the CRM is PA-DSS certified for the maximum level of security for payment data processing. This brings us to our next point.
#2 End to End security
More charities adopt remote working in the face of budget cuts and the COVID-19 pandemic. While remote working can enhance productivity, it can also leave your organization open to cybersecurity threats like spyware, spear-phishing, and ransomware attacks. Various charities across the world are struggling with cybersecurity threats today.
A subscription to a reputable corporate Virtual Private Network (VPN) can secure your remote workforce’s networks, though you must avoid free ones as they’re full of bugs and security holes too. Likewise, cybersecurity tools that provide end to end security can shield your invaluable data from malware attacks.
#3 Remote Payment Processing
If your charity relies on old-school funding techniques, then your organization may take a hit with shelter-in-place orders taking effect to enforce physical distancing protocols. However, you can easily download secure mobile apps for payment processing.
You can also consider adopting Near Field Communications (NFC) technology to accept payments at storefronts from people passing by. All it takes is a tap!
#4 Digital Marketing Tools
You can take advantage of cost-effective social media marketing tools on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram etc., to broaden your donor base and gain helpful insight into key demographics with robust analytic tools. Likewise, depending on the nature of your nonprofit, you can offer virtual tours to improve retention.
Alternatively, consider developing an app for your nonprofit that helps you connect with donors and provides more value. With millions of Android and iOS users worldwide, there’s a massive market for your nonprofit to access.
It’s also a good idea to use chatbots to engage with donors on your website or app. Chatbots, powered by Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML), are amazingly effective at helping nonprofits spread their mission. Unlike human beings, chatbots don’t need to eat, rest, or collect a paycheck and can work for your business around the clock without increasing your operational costs.
As nonprofits face more challenges, the right CRM, cybersecurity tools, payment processing technology, and digital marketing tools can enhance their operations.
