Investing in donor management software gives ministry leadership the resources necessary to create a successful organization.
Dennis Lee recalled on The Spectrum some wise words from Peter Drucker, the founder of the Peter F. Drucker Foundation for Nonprofit Management. Drucker maintains that a good leader is defined by outcomes. By this Drucker means that when leaders set a good example and take ownership of a definitive mission, those that follow in their footsteps will make the best choices for the success of the entire organization. Another important quality in an effective nonprofit director is an active mindset. Instead of asking passive questions, a great leader should be thinking about how to accomplish goals and be an active part of the solution.
Each year, the Axelson Center for Nonprofit Management at North Park University in Chicago gives an award for outstanding managerial skills in the nonprofit sector. This year, the Chicago Community Loan Fund won the large category and Literature for All of Us won the small category. The criteria that the Axelson Center focuses on when making a decision include:
- Preparation – Creating a well thought out plan for an organization’s future and steps to make their dreams a reality.
- Relationships – Maintaining strong bonds with volunteers and donors while continuously fostering new contacts.
- Resources – Utilizing all of the tools available to the nonprofit in the most cost-effective and goal-oriented way.
- Honesty – Delivering information in a timely manner to donors and employees.
One way that nonprofit leadership can encapsulate all of these criteria and more is through the implementation of donor management software. Without a strong nonprofit software system, both small and large organizations become difficult to regulate. A resource that allows staff to collect and categorize donor information, plan campaigns, alert members of future fundraisers, process inventory and develop new opportunities for volunteers to give their time and energy is an invaluable tool for a nonprofit.