Nonprofit staff tasked with donor data management can face unique challenges. When keeping track of multiple streams of donor contact, gift and engagement data and ensuring the information available across software platforms stays current and accurate, it can be helpful to implement data management best practices. Learn how data integration software can facilitate the eight most important measures, from a Raiser’s Edge import to bridging other donor relationship management and fundraising platforms.
Take Time to Consider What Metrics You Should Be Tracking
Some data points are more significant than others when it comes to reaching out to donors and running successful campaigns. Focusing on the metrics that matter most can ensure that you make the most relevant information available on the Salesforce donor management system or any other constituent relationship management software.
Keep Records of All the Changes In You Have Made in Your Database
Maintaining detailed audit logs is essential for any organization that is pursuing platform integration. The changes a database manager or any stakeholder makes in particular programs or on a centralized integration platform have the potential to raise issues down the line, and these notations can point toward solutions.
Confirm the Availability of Current Information Across Platforms
Database managers should perform regular audits of records across platforms. One way to establish this practice is to segment a list of the most likely donors or any other group and ensure that contact and giving data in each record is identical across platforms.
Look for Ways To Close Loopholes That Keep Data Siloed
The types of data stored in software platforms may vary, as may the methodologies of these systems. It is important to acknowledge these distinctions during integration and pursue workarounds to account for the most relevant data.
Automate Imports and Other Routine Data Entry Tasks
Database managers can make their own jobs easier and free up other staff to focus on value-added tasks by pursuing automation. Errors are most likely to enter into records during manual entry, making automation an important step toward data optimization.
Make Sure Fundraising Data Is Available On CRM Platforms
Constituent records are only as useful as the information available to stakeholders upon access. In addition to accurate contact information, the availability of records on donation amounts, dates and methods can allow for more effective giving requests.
Use Integration Software To Bridge Platforms
Connecting CRM and fundraising software and any other services an not-for-profit organization uses can be difficult without an integration solution. Look for a platform designed to meet the unique demands of nonprofits.
Optimize Data and Implement Informed Insights
The leading integration software can provide deduplication and data health features. Improving the quality of records in a centralized, cloud-based database and across platforms can lead to enduring donor relationships and better outcomes in campaigns.
These recommendations address the data management concerns common to most not-for-profit organizations. A nonprofit may find it helpful to assess current data practices to identify the areas in which cloud-based integration software may prove helpful and rely on this platform to pursue data management best practices.
