As your non-profit tackles issues and initiatives affecting your city, state, or region, investing in cloud services could land on the bottom of your to-do list. However, you may be surprised to learn the different ways cloud communications platforms can streamline your community-oriented work.
If you're wondering if unified communications solutions such as video conferencing, SMS systems, cloud phones, and IT services are worth it for your non-profit, here's how they could be a game-changer.
Do You Have These Common Communication Roadblocks?
There are a few communications issues you may run into when operating your non-profit. Whether or not your non-profit experiences these will determine whether cloud solutions services are a good fit. Some of the most common communications issues for non-profits include:
- Some employees work remotely, while others are in-person or hybrid
- Confusion about tasks, delegation, and clarity
- Faulty traditional phone systems
- Fundraising event management
- Donor communication challenges
- Document management issues/disorganization
To read more about how the cloud can assist in non-profit fundraising, check out our blog: Cloud vs On-Prem Phones for Non-Profit Fundraising & Events
What are Unified Communication Platforms?
Unified communications platforms are tools with a wide variety of features, including:
- Video conferencing
- SMS
- VoIP phones
- Document management
- Email integration
- Calendar Management tools
- AI productivity tools
These cloud platforms are popular amongst non-profits that deal with many different stakeholders and complex operations. Whether staff must contact outside vendors, donors, program participants, or collaborate with teammates or leadership, these platforms are versatile and cost-effective.
To explore the differences between cloud and traditional phones systems for non-profits, check out our blog: Cost of Cloud-Based Business Communications Solutions vs Traditional PBX
What Comms Tools Do You Need?
It's crucial to determine what specific tools and capabilties your non-profit needs to be successful. The size, scope, and complexity of your day-to-day operations will inform whether cloud services are right for you. For that reason, it may be advisable to undergo a technology evaluation from a non profit IT support provider.
Video Conferencing Solutions for Non-Profits
If your non-profit serves other professional businesses, schools, or outside entities, you might need video conferencing tools and equipment for outreach capabilities.
Learn how one non profit expanded their reach through innovative video meeting rooms in our blog: CNY Chapter of Education Non-Profit Gets Zoom Rooms to Transform Global Impact
What's the Best SMS System for a Non-Profit Organization?
You might be exploring the best non-profit fundraising platforms with SMS capabilties.
Business texting not only offers more accessibiltiy for your staff to reach community members - it prevents staff from needing to give out their personal phone numbers.
This can help protect your staff's privacy, promote work-life balance, and offer a direct line of support for community members who prefer texting over calling.
What Are the Best Fundraising Platforms For Non-Profits?
If you aim to use unified communications solutions to support your fundraising efforts, look for tools with:
- Cybersecurity features such as encryption to protect sensitive donor data
- Organized, easy-to-use document management for appeal letters, acknowledgment letters, and marketing materials
- Well-laid-out communications channels with intuitive organization to quickly find conversations, take notes, and track donor interactions
Some common platforms include Microsoft 365, Google Business Suite, Slack, Zoom, and RingCentral.
You can check out top video conferencing platforms for non-profits here, and see the top document management solutions for small businesses in our blog: Top 7 Cloud Storage Systems For Small Businesses
Cloud Services to Support Operations & Fundraising for Nonprofit Organizations
If you need to elevate your programs with better organization, collaboration, and efficiency, it may be in your best interest to look into IT solutions for charities & non profits.
IT support for non-profits can take the stress out of finding, managing, and implementing unified communications systems. Specialized IT services for non-profits can quickly find the best solutions for you. They already understand your needs and priorities, simplifying the purchasing and implementation processes.
If you're ready to discover the ways cloud tools can elevate your nonprofit operations, click the button below to get in touch with an expert.
