As we find ourselves nearly halfway through 2022, there are several key technology trends that have emerged in the nonprofit industry that leaders should be following. Like every business, nonprofits are continuing to face challenges and changes. Keeping up with trends can allow industry leaders to learn predictions and stay ahead, especially when it comes to technology. Here are the top 5 technology trends we want you to know about.
As a leading IT provider for nonprofits in the San Francisco Bay area and beyond, we would like to share the top 5 IT trends we’ve noted this year. As always, if you have any questions or would like to discuss your own technology strategy for the remainder of 2022, feel free to reach out to us.
- Cybersecurity
Cybersecurity continues to be the top trend in 2022. With hybrid workplaces and cloud-based processes, there is more risk. Gartner reminds us that “at the same time, sophisticated ransomware, attacks on the digital supply chain and deeply embedded vulnerabilities” also put organizations at risk. Nonprofits need to take their security strategy seriously, as they collect and store information — from financial information to donor habits.
- Use of Automation
Automation can be greatly beneficial for any organization. It uses software platforms, applications, frameworks, and other machines to complete tasks without human assistance. For the nonprofit sector, software can automate everything from accounting and reporting to events and fundraising. One of the top benefits is that it can reduce labor costs, which is especially important for organizations who don’t have flexible budgets. Automation can also save time, increase efficiency, improve security, and allow your organization to scale up.
- Strategic Data Usage
With strategic usage, you can use data to drive important decisions and empower your nonprofit. Biz Tech Magazine notes that “actionable data is needed to boost fundraising and chart a potential path forward for organizations that hope to better serve their constituents.” Data can used in a variety of ways such as personalizing the donor experience, improving services and programs, and seeing how to best connect with your community.
- Alternative Donor Payment Methods
Nonprofit Pro notes that “according to Visa’s Payment Panel in 2020, we have seen a 10% increase of credit card usage for charitable giving spend and a 20% decline in check giving over the past five years.” Plus, with the rise of digital wallet use (Apple Pay and Google Pay for example), as well as improved online payment experiences, nonprofits will continue to see donors expecting to pay online easily and securely. Some nonprofits may even need to consider adapting to cryptocurrency. With these advancements, it’s important to have a robust technology strategy in place.
- Virtual Fundraising and Volunteering
Technology will continue to change the way nonprofits think about fundraising and even volunteering. Interestingly, in LinkedIn’s State of Virtual Events report, 75% of event marketers worldwide say they plan to continue running virtual events over the long term. From providing more opportunities for online events to increasing efficiency among volunteer efforts, taking advantage of virtual opportunities will help build awareness and increase your mission impact.
Stay Ahead With Varsity
As you look ahead to the remainder of 2022, how are you preparing to stay ahead of these trends? If you’d like a trusted IT provider supporting you every step of the way, contact Varsity. We have the IT expertise and the nonprofit industry experience to customize a technology strategy based on your needs and your budget. Learn more about our services or get in touch with us. We look forward to working with you!