"Guide to Purchasing Non-Profit Software" Brought to you by Sage Software
Are you researching non-profit software? It's a big job to make this critical investment for your organization and
its often hard to know where to start. Now that you’ve decided to upgrade the commercial accounting software you have
been using, or to invest in a donor database for more extensive fundraising programs, and are looking for a
professional non-profit software package, what should you expect during the evaluation process? Where are the
pitfalls? What should you be considering in your search for non-profit software? Can anyone help with your evaluation?
Buy A Nonprofit Solution, Not Just Non-Profit Software.
Nobody wants merely to acquire the code that goes into a Non-Profit Software program—you ultimately need a
complete solution to address your organizational needs. A real solution includes considerations beyond just the
computer program you purchase: your staff must be able to use the program effectively and your organization should
be supported technically if your network changes or programs are added, or if you have questions or issues.
In addition, it's helpful when evaluating non-profit software to consider your wider organization to determine what
additional services may be required so that you have a real solution. Can your organization's current IT staff
(if you have an IT staff!) handle the evaluation, selection and installation of hardware and software and product
integration, as well as training and support after the purchase?
Do you have a budget to hire a consultant? Do you want a local contact if you need help with some aspect of the
system, or is vendor phone support enough?
For more information on the software selection process, request the Industry Paper from Sage software. Or learn
about affordable non-profit software: