Applying CRM Technology to Your Nonprofit

Implementing a new constituent relationship management (CRM) system in any existing organization, both for-profit and non-profit, can be more difficult than it sounds. Many CRM initiatives collapse or fail to reap significant rewards because of a faulty implementation strategy. An effective plan for integrating CRM software, on the other hand, can help ensure the success of the organization as a whole. Though circumstances surrounding the application of a new CRM system for nonprofits may vary, such a task should never be underestimated; only by treating CRM implementation as an important new step can your organization truly benefit.

Set Tangible Goals

Too many businesses and nonprofits view open source CRM software as a trendy, technologically-savvy solution without a foundation in solid business sense. They treat their new CRM initiative as an attractive project, but not as one whose progress can be tangibly measured. And yet, these same organizations are surprised when their CRM software appears to have no significant effect on their fundraising results. In other words – resist the temptation to think of constituent relationship technology as something which will ‘somehow’ be good for your organization ‘someday.’ Set tangible, concrete goals for what you want to achieve with your CRM initiative, and work towards achieving those goals.

Implement in Stages

As with any change, integrating open source CRM software into an existing organizational structure is most well accepted when done gradually. Instead of confusing and unsettling your staff or members by throwing an entire set of new functions and formats at them simultaneously, design a plan to introduce them to the CRM model in stages. This allows your staff to grow accustomed to using CRM software, and helps ensure that the software becomes part of day-to-day operation.

To learn more about effective ways to introduce open source CRM software to your nonprofit, contact MPower at 800-800-0293.