>I'm a CPA in Indianapolis and I'm evaluating ebase for one of my NFP >clients. They'd like to computerize their records (basic demographic data >and referral sources) on 1100 active members (in six categories)and >automate their dues renewal process. The organization has an office, but >no paid staff; everything is done by volunteers, and I'm afraid their >computer literacy (they would agree) is below average. > >Would appreciate thoughts from anyone on the list as to how difficult this >process could turn out to be (they have basic member data in an Excel >spreadsheet now)and whether you have any other solutions to recommend.
Ebase is designed to work for small grass-roots organizations. It's largely driven by scripts and buttons so the magic is invisible to the user, and it's delivered ready to go with many of the functions a small organization will require. There are, however, two concerns that arise for me in the situation you describe. First, starting with an Excel sheet means that the data migration to ebase has a couple of potential complications: no serial number to start with, and membership payments (if any) kept in the same record (spreadsheet line) as contact data. These aren't big hurdles, just an additional complcation for an organization with below average skills. Second, ebase is a large and complex system. There will be the occasional situation, however, that requires knowledge beyond the basic - answer a user's question, or some administrative tasks. Doesn't take much - just someone who can read the manuals or ask questions on this listserve. This could be one of the volunteers who takes on the responsibility, or a local consultant. Again, not a big hurdle, but the organization needs to recognize that someone needs to take the responsibility. Ebase is an effective, low-cost solution for development work for small organizations, and should work for your client. They will have a better experience if they get some assistance early on to make a good start. -- -- Dave Shaw H4 Consulting tel: 206-954-7526 fax: 206-625-1338 ------------------ Reminder to each recipient: To change your list account preferences, go to http://email.sparklist.com/scripts/lyris.pl?enter=support and enter the email address you used to subscribe to the ebase support list:: [email protected] To unsubscribe send a blank email to [EMAIL PROTECTED] --------------------------------------------------------------------- ebase - Relationship Management for Nonprofits, http://www.ebase.org ---------------------------------------------------------------------
