This is the third post in a series in which I implore nonprofits to do some critical reflecting and planning before they purchase, design, or modify their client databases. However, the same tips are helpful before you embark on any evaluation work or make changes to your data collection forms, tools, or processes, too. This[…]
In my last post, I pointed out that a database is just a tool. It’s not magic. It’s not omniscient or omnipotent. Your database is only as good as your evaluation planning and data strategy. I think there are four key things organizations need to know in order to design and make the best use[…]
I’ve heard so many nonprofit leaders talk about client management or performance management databases like they are the answer to all of a program’s problems. If we had a database, we could . . . Know which clients are succeeding Better monitor our activities Track client progress over time Streamline our billing Save time on[…]
Happy New Year! This is the time of year when many of us make resolutions or set goals. Lose weight. Learn a new skill. Build our networks. Save a certain amount of money. I am wired for quality improvement, so I still do this every year. Though, I could benefit from following some of my[…]
People in both for-profit and not-for-profit sectors often opine about the differences between the two. In the non-profit world, we say we are different because we are motivated by mission rather than money. The business world sometimes says we should be more like businesses. I agree with both, to some degree. Because our organizations are[…]
Hi, my name is Sarah, and I love taking surveys. It’s true. Ever since I was a kid. By filling out surveys and comment cards, I’ve won theater tickets, hotel rooms, and free meals. I believe in the value of feedback! So, it irks me when I see poorly designed surveys because they waste time,[…]
In my last post, I argued that you can’t measure what you haven’t defined. Too many nonprofits try to measure broad or vague outcome statements, which results in confusing surveys and largely useless data. Identifying clear, specific indicators makes measurement easier and more meaningful. Indicators are the critical middle step between outcomes and measurement tools.[…]
That might not sound like an earth-shattering proclamation, and I don’t know if I’m the first or only one to say it. But I’m going to make that my primary call to action for nonprofits! Nonprofits know we are (supposed to be) making a difference in people’s lives, and we know we are supposed to[…]
For years, I’ve had an image in my head that represented the results of nonprofits’ often piecemeal, reactive efforts to respond to stakeholder demands and ill-fitting funding opportunities. It can be a patched together, mismatched, less-than-functional mishmash of unclear intentions and unfocused efforts. In my research, I came across a term in home remodeling: subtraction[…]
As a consultant and grant-maker, I’ve read a lot of outcome statements – the good, the bad, and the ugly. From that experience, I’ve identified my top 10 tips for writing strong outcome statements. Overall, if nothing else, make sure your outcomes are meaningful, measurable, and manageable. This requires that they be specific. Read on[…]