If you’ve done a quick Google search on Customer Relationship Management (CRM) tools, you’re likely aware of the number of programs out there.
And if you’re truly in need of a CRM, you might’ve been overwhelmed by the sheer number of them, all claiming to be the best of the best.
The truth is, no CRM is perfect. They all cater to different needs and the odds are that no single one has everything you’re looking for. But they do provide a way to organize your customer or donor list, with other benefits you won’t find in your generic spreadsheet.
Benefits of a CRM
If you’re a nonprofit, you likely have three main audiences you’re trying to reach (donors, volunteers and the population you serve), all with different needs and preferences. A CRM provides a solution to manage these needs.
CRMs help automate the donor journey so you can instead focus on your organization’s mission. With a quality CRM, you can introduce task automation, fast access to donor info and analytics to your organization’s processes. [Kindful]
Choosing the Right CRM
Asking the right questions can help you filter through the noise. Here are things to consider as you look for the right CRM for your organization:
1. What are your needs?: It’s important to know what attributes you’re looking for in a CRM and what features will help lighten your task list. Keep in mind the audience you’re trying to reach and how much data insight you’ll need. Ask yourself questions like:
- Who are you sending emails and direct mail to? Will the CRM help you manage that audience?
- What additional features might you need? Are you hoping to find a software that includes things like email marketing or analytics?
- What data is most valuable to your organization? Does the CRM provide this information?
2. What tools are you currently using that you intend to integrate with your CRM—beyond your website?: Do you have an email marketing system that needs to connect? Maybe you’re looking to integrate your payment gateways or other financial software. Know what you currently have, and decide if it’s important for those programs to integrate with your CRM.
3. How much effort are you willing to put in?: Ensure that your CRM will help you sort through what you need (your answers to the above question) and will help you save time while doing it.
Keep in mind that the CRM is only as useful as the data is correct.
If you don’t have the data (or if what you have is inconsistent), the CRM won’t do you any good.
Have a Firespring Springboard Website?
In case you have a Firespring website, get ready for some new CRM integrations headed your way, in addition to the following, existing integrations:
- Bloomerang (now much easier to add to your website)
- Constant Contact
- Blackbaud
- Fundraise Up
- Kindful
- + More
Look forward to more integrations, including Little Green Light, coming soon!
Need more help? Firespring has got you covered. Let’s work together.
