It goes without saying that there is a tech solution for just about any problem, however that tech sometimes creates problems that didn’t exist before.

Cyber Security
For example, keeping donor data safe used to mean locking the door to the office before you left for the day. Now, nonprofits must be cognizant to the fact that hackers are constantly coming up with schemes to part businesses (including nonprofits) from their money and/or data. From outright hacking to sophisticated phishing schemes 2018 saw organizations large and small falling victim to cyber scams.

One such incident involved  Save the Children; the organization fell victim to an email hack that cost them $1 million dollars. Another organization had their Facebook page held hostage until they paid a ransom to recover use of it.  

Nonprofits will need to remain vigilant to the cyber threat. There are many resources available to help them from making sure to install all patches from software provider to consultations with cyber security firms.

Social Media
For the foreseeable future social media will remain an important tool for nonprofits. While the technology itself remains, fairly, constant what is changing is how organizations use the platforms. The emphasis has switched from trying to please everyone on every platform to find a platform that allows your organization to interact with your supporters.

Live Streaming
Many nonprofits are finding renewed success on social media by live streaming events, symposiums or even day to day operations. Social media users enjoy the intimacy of the live stream and research has found that viewers prefer to watch versus read.

Data Analytics
Organizations are embracing data analytics to help them zero in on their target market. Software vendors including data analytics in their platforms which means nonprofits can  craft appeals that speak directly to their donors and maximize their return on investment for such things as mass mailing (either email or snail mail).

Donor Management Software
Donor management software continues to evolve with the needs of their clients. Many vendors are adding data analytics and other tools to help nonprofits get the most out of their donor lists.