subject: Non Profit Software: Why You Should Use Technology To Kick Your Nonprofit Into Overdrive [print this page] If you plan on starting a nonprofit, or have recently started a nonprofit organization, you probably realize that technology is your greatest asset. Of course, beginning a nonprofit normally means you have a minimal budget and may be beginning the organization with an old computer. Non profit software is widely available for a price, but you can discover many open source programs to take your nonprofit to the next level that are completely free.
Inexpensive Software
The first thing you will need is an office suite that is compatible with Microsoft Office. Many mainstream businesses have turned to Open Office, because it is free and has powerful spreadsheet, word processor, presentation, and drawing programs. These will soon be something you depend on to run your daily business. Open Office works with Windows, Mac OS X, and Linux.
Another free non profit software option for an office program that allows sharing is Google Docs. Google Docs includes a word processor, spreadsheet, presentation, drawing, and form. The cool think about Google Docs is you can share files with others in your organization so everyone can see them and easily collaborate when necessary.
In addition, you will need a solid email program. There are several free open source options including Thunderbird. Thunderbird has many available add ons such as a full-featured calendar with a reminder, which allows you to schedule activities and events. It also includes email with substantial organization capabilities.
Building a Website
You should have a website, but obviously as a new nonprofit, you cannot afford a professional web designer. Investigate programs such as WordPress, because this will take you through the process of setting up a blog and also offers inexpensive web hosting. It is a business that has been running for some time and is very respected.
Some Other Software
One type of nonprofit software that may cost a bit of money is donor database software. Controlling your costs as a nonprofit will always be an important task, but in the beginning it is especially important. You might want to start with these options: Donation Solutions, DonorAccess, Donor Records, and Easy Gift, though there are many others. Initially, you may be able to manage with a spreadsheet for your donor donations, but eventually, you will need to invest in actual donor database software.
Data Backup
You should have your data backed up and you can do this very cheaply via an online program like MozyPro, Carbonite, and iDrive. These services begin at just $3.95 each month, but it is a vital investment. If you lost your data, your nonprofit could die. You definitely should consider how to back it up.
Final Considerations
To make an impact with your nonprofit organization, technology is necessary. There are many free and inexpensive options so you can have your small nonprofit functioning like a giant in no time.
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Joe Adams is an guru in the area of nonprofit modernization. Read more about him at his website http://starting-a-nonprofit.com/
