5 Capacity Drivers for Organizational Growth: Part Three, Easily Configurable Database 

In this blog series, we are exploring five capacity drivers that support the growth of social good organizations. Third in this series explores the benefits of an easily configurable database. 

In the for-profit world, operations and processes are designed with two primary directives: save time and make money. By putting systems in place to help save time on administrative tasks, companies allow employees to spend more time on revenue-generating activities. So, companies take great pains to adopt best-in-class technology to remain competitive and continue to grow. Makes sense, right? 

But for service-centered organizations, the primary objective is to help people. And, often, organizations are disincentivized to invest in technology because key performance ratings reward nonprofits and public sector agencies that have low administrative costs. However, with more robust technology—particularly database management software—organizations can free up time for staff to do what they do best: make a positive impact in individual’s lives and in their communities.  

With a database that is easily configurable at the point of service delivery, social good organizations can add fields and forms in minutes and adapt to change quickly.  

Adapt to Change  

The sheer amount of information you need to collect on every program participant can be staggering. Organizations can track limitless data points, including contact information, current needs, utilization of services across multiple programs, progress and case notes, educational information, health status and more. As a participant begins, moves through, or completes programs, different data configurations may be required. And offerings change, too. That’s why the ability to quickly add, delete, edit or customize data fields in real time is critical.  

Social Solutions’ drag-and-drop configuration allows organizations to pivot quickly and stay on track. Staff, board members, administrators and volunteers can easily access the latest (and the same) information on clients, trends and more.  

Adjust to New Reporting Requirements 

Reporting is an essential function of a people-centered, service-oriented organization. But spending days, weeks and months putting together reports often takes time away from providing services. This ability to pivot seamlessly makes it easier to create new reports that meet funder and board requirements, which can change frequently. 

On average, organizations using Social Solutions technology see a 35 percent reduction in time spent on data capture and 40 to 75 percent reduction in time spent on reporting and analysis.  

Want to learn more ways to support the growth of your social good organization? Check out our 5 Capacity Drivers eBook. 

Check out Part Four, Digital Workflows & Alerts.