Your Website Redesign, Online Fundraising & Building a Data Culture

Not Another New Year’s Article

I know it sounds cheesy, but put better data collection at the top of your list of new year’s resolutions. This article is written by Salesforce to promote Salesforce, so take it with a grain of salt, but they have good suggestions about what organizations should be focusing on in 2019. For example, committing to a data collection tool and making sure it is set up correctly ensures your nonprofit can be confident in the data you collect – and the decisions you make from it.

When It’s Time to Redesign

If you want to start fresh in 2019, this handy UX research process explains the steps and timeline for redesigning your website with users at the forefront. One thing that stuck out to me was their emphasis on the importance of combining generative (user interviews) and evaluative research (A/B testing, mouse tracking, remote usability testing). Hot tip: since you want the research to define the direction of your design, “put generative techniques at the beginning.”

Metrics, Misunderstood

2018 is over, but in the world of digital marketing and communications January is reporting time. For insight on putting together a meaningful analysis of your website’s content, conversions, and audience, this is the webinar for you. Bonus: you’ll get tips about how to make Google Analytics work for your website.

Value Added

Want some free consulting help? Digital ads experts told AdEspresso their favorite tips for getting the most out of Google Ads. Above all, the suggestion that stuck out to me was to stop pushing donations and start pushing value. Next time you’re utilizing Google Ads, target keywords where advertisers aren’t delivering enough value. Soon enough, you’ll see more than just your conversions and CTR skyrocket because, in 2019, it’s important to think about what value your nonprofit is bringing to donors.

Raising Funds Like It’s Your Job

Wondering how your online fundraising compares to other nonprofits? This helpful list of stats may be what you need to think through your 2019 fundraising plan. The stat I found most interesting: “In 2017, Email accounted for 26% of all online revenue in 2017 and grew 15% over 2016.”

My Favorite Advice

Lifestyle of the data-driven

We all know the importance of data, but simply having data isn’t enough. When you use it to shape strategy and get everyone on board with a data-driven approach, you create a “data culture” at your nonprofit. This article helps managers foster this culture in their own teams and has excellent discussion questions to help identify your team’s needs and weak spots. My favorite point is that your organization’s culture is more about the people and less about the tools you use.

A Very Cool Visualization

Nerding out

As a self-proclaimed data nerd, this creative visualization of daily routines is everything I’ve ever wanted and more. Curious about how Charles Dickens started his day or how Maya Angelou balanced work and quality time with her husband? Look no further.