By Lauren Kotkin, Exponent Philanthropy
Technology in the social sector is behind the curve, according to Gayle Samuelson Carpentier, TechSoup’s chief business development officer, who spoke on the May 22 webinar Navigating the World of Donated & Discounted Technology. The economic crisis, rapid changes in technology, and the lack of in-house technology management contribute to the situation.
What to do? Gayle reviewed good practices for foundations and nonprofits who are planning for technology changes, plus a number of ways to investigate donated and discounted technology, including Good360, Digital Wish (for educators and their supporters), and TechSoup, where 90+ technology donors provide resources to NGOs.
Watch the webinar recording (Exponent Philanthropy members) or check out our Educational Programs calendar for upcoming in-person programs, conference calls, and webinars.
Here are examples of the donated or discounted technology available through TechSoup:
- Website—GoDaddy offers nonprofits free website hosting services, usually $10/month
- Cloud storage—Box will store your files in the cloud for easy access and sharing, usually $10/month for a business membership
- Accounting—Quickbooks Essentials for accounting typically runs $27/month
Before investigating any options, advised Gayle, it is wise to first ensure:
- Your basic technology is up to speed. These days, the “basics” are networked computers, a great website, and even voice-over-Internet protocol (VoIP) as an alternative to landlines. Outdated or slow technology, especially when used every day, can result in lost productivity and reduced capacity.
- Your constituent database is up-to-date. How are you keeping track of your users, constituents, or grantees? Do you have a workable resource? It can be simpler to upgrade when all the information you need is in one place.
- You have a strategic plan in place focused on building a well-informed and supportive board.
Once you’re confident in your fundamentals, the next step is to craft a technology plan, since it’s difficult to choose new technology without a clear sense of your goals and current systems. A simple technology plan starts with the question: What do you really need? Online resources can help you assess your needs. Additional assessment resources can be found at Idealware, TechSoup, Nonprofit Technology Network (NTEN), and local Nonprofit Technology Assistance Providers (NTAPs).
Exponent Philanthropy is now partnering with TechSoup to avail members of software and hardware donations and discounts as well as spread the word to nonprofit grantees about these resources.
Learn about the Exponent Philanthropy member benefits through TechSoup.
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Senior Program Director Lauren Kotkin plans a range of educational programs for the Exponent Philanthropy community, including conferences, webinars, and conference calls. Previously, she worked at the Council on Foundations in the Family Foundation Services department. Lauren holds an undergraduate degree from Duke University and an M.Ed. from Lesley University.
