The first point we need to clarify is that professionally managing non-profit entities is as important as managing a private company. For a long time, it was believed that institutions that do not aim Profit They didn't need more accurate administration, but that's not true. And to ensure that everything runs smoothly, the use of technology in Third sector becomes essential.

However, we are not just talking about using a computer to make spreadsheets. There are several alternatives that can be explored to organize, streamline and facilitate the management of these organizations, especially with regard to attracting and saving financial resources. “If we are going to use technology, let it be strategically, right? So, when thinking about how to take advantage of it, open your mind to the different options available, from social media to management software. This way, it becomes much easier to find where the opportunities are to make the entity’s work sustainable”, highlights Marcio Tomelin, director of Product and market WK Systems.

The expert on the subject listed three ways to use technology in Third sector and guarantee the necessary financial resources to develop and keep activities running. Check out:

1 – Social media

According to the 2018 Global NGO Technology Report, social media is an important part of organizations' communication and fundraising strategy. According to the document, 93% of NGOs around the world have a Facebook page, 77% have a Twitter profile, 56% have a LinkedIn page, 50% have an Instagram profile and 36% publish regularly on their blogs. Furthermore, 71% of entities agree that social media is effective in fundraising and 25% of donors say that networks are the communication tool that most inspires them to donate.

Given these numbers, if your institution is not yet part of this scenario, it is certainly missing out on several opportunities to strengthen its finances and expand its activities. Take advantage of the fact that most social media is free and present your cause to people. You can, for example, set up an attractive blog and tell the story of your entity, highlighting the activities and benefits it delivers to society.

Then, create a Facebook page and a Twitter profile to publicize your activities and look for new supporters. Today, it is possible to call people to make donations directly through social media. So, don't wait any longer to use these tools. Look at your entity, see which networks are most adherent to it and use them intelligently.

2 – Cloud computing

You've probably heard about cloud computing. Today, this technological alternative that allows access to files and the execution of different tasks via the internet is a great option for those who organize and coordinate the activities of institutions in the Third sector. If we talk about people who divide their time between Philanthropy and own business or a job then, the cloud fits like a glove.

And you know what is better? There are several devices that can be used for free, such as tools from Google and Microsoft. When you create a Google account, for example, in addition to email, you also have access to Google Drive, a platform that allows you to create, store and share files with multiple people.

There is also cloud software, which does not require setting up an IT infrastructure within the organization, as it does not need to be installed on computers or stored in its own databases. All access is via the internet.

All these facilities not only bring agility in work, but also savings, which is very important, since financial resources, in most cases, are very scarce.

3 – Management software

The use of technology in Third sector involves investing in a management software. It is extremely important that entities can count on a system that supports the work of administration, especially the financial part, providing Transparency.

How do institutions in the Third sector generally work through donations, knowing exactly what you have in cash, what will still come in and when and what the expenses are, is essential to guarantee your Sustainability. Having the numbers organized is also important when Accountability of activities for sponsors.

Furthermore, being able to generate reports on activities and expenses quickly and simply makes it easier to pass on information to new people interested in collaborating with your cause. With everything in hand, it is very easy to explain the institution's needs and point out exactly what is needed to keep the projects running.

Press information – Word Workshop:
Letícia Oberger