Using Data for Enhanced Nonprofit Performance: Insights and Strategies

Whitepaper “Driving Nonprofit Impact With Data and Technology.” synthesizes thereadfindings from a survey Executive Directors of 27 agencies in human services, highlighting current practices, challenges, and opportunities in data utilization, fundraising, technology adoption, and strategic planning. 

Data Utilization

The survey illuminates a crucial gap, with
73% of agencies underutilizing data in decision-making, hindered by collection complexities and disjointed systems.

Outdated Processes

Despite varied sizes,
over 60% of agencies still rely on spreadsheets, with 37% using paper records, pointing to a widespread opportunity for technological advancement.

Technology Adoption

Highlighting a stark contrast, agencies utilizing case management software experienced a notable
decrease in audit time, from over 12 hours to under four, showcasing the efficiency gains possible through technology.

Strategic Fundraising

A significant finding is the underutilization of data in fundraising strategies, indicating a missed opportunity for enhancing donor engagement and support.

A common challenge among respondents is the underutilization of data in decision-making processes. Some of the reasons were due to collection difficulties, reliance on labor-intensive tracking systems, and a lack of strategic integration of technology solutions like case management software.

Discover proven strategies and innovative solutions that have helped other human service organizations overcome challenges in data utilization, technology adoption, and strategic fundraising.

Download our whitepaper: “Driving Nonprofit Impact With Data and Technology.”