This post summarises the key steps you should take to implement a CRM in your not for profit organisation, this is aimed at smaller charities who are getting started with CRM.

First, lets take it back a few steps…

Do you even need a CRM system?

You really need to consider if it is worthwhile for your charity to invest in a CRM system. Yes, they are wonderful things to have but they come at a cost. So think wisely if you can maintain what you currently have using spreadsheets without the cost implications.

If you think you do need one, read forth. If you do not, there are lots of other tools which can get you on the right track.

1. Evaluate the resources you have available

CRM’s are not free.

Yes, there are some which offer trials or a very low cost entry levels. But you will need to invest anything from £150 per month for your CRM, and that is just the nuts and bolts. If you want to add on extra features it quickly racks up.

2. Work out your requirements

Ask yourself, and your team (if you have one), some questions which might guide who you choose. These questions can include;

• What payment providers do we use/want to use?
• What donation platforms do we use/want to use?
• Do we need forms so our supporters can enter data?
• Do we use an email marketing platform at the moment?
• How many people need to be able to use the system?
• Do we have a lot of data to bring into the new system?
• What kind of training do we want to have? Or can we use self-guided learning?
• How confident are we with technology, is there someone in the organisation who can lead on this?

3. Look at the market leaders

Reputation: Charity Digital have great surveys which analyse what real charities think of CRM’s they are using. This is a great place to start.

Technology: Who integrates best with the technology you are currently using. We have compiled a basic comparison of which CRM’s link ‘out of the box’ with other technologies. Take a look here.