Running a nonprofit organization is a lot of work, and much of that effort goes into tracking your donors and their donations. When you have dozens, hundreds, or more people working toward your cause, keeping track of communication and other important information can be difficult. That is unless you use the right donor management tools and use them to their full potential.
1. Integrate Your Database With Your Other Software
Depending on how your organization raises money, you may need to integrate your donor database with other types of software you use. Peer-to-peer platforms or event planning software are common examples. The fluid integration of your software means there is less chance for error that happens when manually transferring data, as well as makes it easier for you to input new data. Consider a tool that makes your initial merging of software easier. For example, ImportOmatic allows you to easily merge your new data solutions with your Raiser’s Edge Software.
2. Keep Your Database Clean
Clean your databases at least once a year to ensure you are making the most of your software and your time. Start by deleting any duplicate records you come across and erasing any information that you are sure is outdated. Remove records for any donors who have been inactive for at least two years and standardize any entries that aren’t using the correct entry protocols. Finally, send your current list of donors an email asking them to update contact information so you can keep an updated database.
3. Create Comprehensive Profiles for Your Donors
For the best donation results, it’s important to keep a detailed profile of your donors. In addition to their phone numbers, email addresses, and other contact information, you also need to track their donation history, which events they attend in support of your organization, and whether they have any connections with other supporters. This information allows you to tailor fundraisers, events, and even communication based on the donor’s interests and needs.
4. Choose the Right Database for Your Nonprofit
Look for several key features when choosing donor management software. First, the software should include constituent groups that allow you to categorize donors and target your messages appropriately. Next, it should let you track information by family as well, since many times, more than one person in a family is a donor. Because every organization is different, it’s important for software to allow you to create user-defined fields. This way, you can include any information that is unique to your organization. Finally, the software, such as Salesforce Donation Management, should provide standard dashboards and reports, as well as allow you to customize the reports you need most.
5. Use Omatic Cloud To Get Clean & Consistent Data
When creating your donor databases and integrating software with Blackbaud Salesforce, use OmaticCloud to help you. The service allows for real-time integration, making it easier to see information as you need it. You’ll also be able to track the outcome of your constituent services, manage information more efficiently, and even track people who may be great donor prospects.
