Great Resources...just fill in the spaces January 19, 2007

I am always delighted when anyone offers learning resources to help development folks. If you are looking to choose or upgrade a donor database, check out NPower Seattle's free educational resources.  Their motto "Putting technology know-how in the hands of nonprofits" says it all.  Under the banner of "Getting the Most from Your Decision: Four Steps to Selecting Donor Management Software", they've created a Donor Management Toolkit Book (available here: http://www.npowerseattle.org/education/resources/donor_toolkit.htm ).

This publication, available to nonprofits free, can help you build perspective on data management tasks fundraisers face, define your needs and better understand the capacity of available technologies. NPower Seattle also provides downloadable, interactive documents to help with needs identification, tool selection, implementation and financing options. This is not only a great start for folks new to digital fundraising solution integration, but just as helpful for more experienced fundraisers in planning for conversions (check against your perceptions) or working with database consultants.

I offer just one caveat about these tools, or any guidance-tools: They are only a start.  You need to be vigilant about informing the process.  For example, the downloadable resource titled “Sample Major Donor Process Map” appears to ignore the critical task of cultivation which, for our truly major donors, is a purposeful, time- and data-demanding endeavor.  The process map starts with an “initial contact with donor” and moves next to a step labeled “verify intent to donate funds”.  Professional fundraisers recognize the very real variable path of relationship building, informing, donor engagement and solicitation which demands documentation and tracking.  And after the gift, for truly major donors, the process and requirements of appropriate stewardship cannot be ignored.

Even so, NPower Seattle has done a wonderful job of creating essential tools.  Their site abounds with many other technical education resources as well.  Time spent there can help you, your Board and staff members get moving in the same direction.  And that has to feel good.

Happy Hunting.