Nonprofit organizations are under increased scrutiny because they are responsible for properly allocating donations from the public. Misuse of public donations can result in fines, legal challenges, and damage to your reputation. Many nonprofits take extreme measures to avoid using funds for administrative purposes because they are worried about facing backlash from donors.
This means that nonprofits are more likely to be using outdated technology and equipment, are more vulnerable to IT security threats, and may not have experts on staff who understand how to improve the efficiency of their network or hardware. An IT consultant can provide expert guidance on optimizing technology to increase the reach of your nonprofit, improve your ability to provide services for the population you’re serving, and help you plan for the future. Here is a look at how your nonprofit can benefit from hiring an IT consultant.
Improve Technology Infrastructure
You use technology to market your nonprofit, appeal to donors and other local organizations, handle administrative tasks, and communicate with the population you serve. When you have outdated technology, your staff can’t work as effectively. An IT consultant can help you find ways to improve your technology infrastructure without spending a lot of money. Your IT consultant may even have community connections they can appeal to for donated technology like computers, monitors, and software programs.
Guidance in Choosing Software and Applications
There are many different software programs and applications marketed to nonprofits. They aren’t all reputable. An IT consultant can help you choose tools that align with your mission, workflow, and goals. You may benefit from an upgraded CRM system, volunteer management system, email marketing platform, or donation management software. Using systems that are designed for your specific industry can make it easier to reach your target audience and manage donations.
Streamline Processes and Improve Efficiency
Even if you have a small staff, you can benefit from improving efficiency and finding ways to streamline or automate some processes. An IT consultant can help you implement IT solutions that are easier to use, faster, and less vulnerable to security issues. It will be easier for your staff to focus on your mission if they aren’t worried about dealing with slow internet speeds, network connectivity problems, and outdated hardware.
Plan for the Future
Most nonprofit executive directors and development directors are always looking to the future and trying to find new ways to serve their target population. An IT consultant can help you plan for the future by making sure you have scalable networking solutions and IT infrastructure. They can also help you find tech tools that can evolve and grow along with your nonprofit.
At MTC, our IT consultants have extensive experience working with local nonprofits. We understand the challenges that nonprofits face on a day-to-day basis, and how hard it can be to reach your goals while also dealing with failing equipment and infrastructure. We can help you find lasting IT solutions that work within your budget. Call us today or contact us online to schedule a consultation.