The Tech Savvy Nonprofit

Building on our previous conversation about CRM with Ashley Faison, in this episode we're talking about data leadership with Tracy Van Solkema. Tracy is the Research and Data Services Specialist at the Grand Rapids Community Foundation. When it comes to the topic of using data to advance the work of your organization, you'd be hard-pressed to find a person more passionate about this topic than Tracy.  Why is a CRM or donor database important for a nonprofit or foundation? Shared institutional knowledge – ensures the documentation of important data and knowledge from long-time employees Less fear of organizational change – allows for easier staff transitions and keeps the work moving forward in someone's absence, addressing the old 'what happens if you're hit by a bus?' scenario Access to information – provides all staff access to the same information even if they are off-site or at a different office Workflow improvements – reminders and more can lead to more efficient processes Strengthens relationships – t