| The wide range of size, scope and mission of the organizations which comprise the third sector make it difficult to characterize as a whole. One thing is clear: The current climate for non-profit funding is fiercely competitive. Donors are the benefactors that channel many funds to not-for-profit organizations (NPOs) and are analogous to customers of businesses. Customer service principles may be useful in developing strategies for marketing and fund raising in the non-profit sector. Contemporary donors and consumers have widespread access to and actively use computer technology including Internet, emails, websites, software, and social networking sites in their daily lives. NPOs can use these technologies to facilitate the communication and strengthen relationships with their donors. Some organizations have used computer based technology to raise significant amounts of money online. Case studies indicate that smaller NPOs are at a disadvantage technologically due to relative lack of training, computer expertise and funding. |
