I recently had a student ask me “ I heard about Raiser’s Edge as a tool used by nonprofit organizations. What do you think about it and is it worth learning it to boost my skills and get an edge in this tough job market? If yes, please give me recommendations on how and where to get a training.” I asked a trusted colleague in the field for his recommendation and received the following response: I do recommend an understanding of donor management software before interviewing. Raises Edge is one of many brands. Conceptually they all will roughly do the same. I recommend people check out GiftWorks. For 2 reasons: 1- its the only software we know with a free trial. From their website you can download a 30 day trial (pc only). It would allow someone the ability to play around and grasp the concepts. 2- they have lots of YouTube tutorials for free that will also allow someone the ability to master the concepts. Its all about understanding the concepts and what the tools can and can’t do for a fundraiser. The intricacies will differ by org use.
Brad recently wrote an article on this subject and it was just published online today, check it out: Donor Management in the Era of Technology: Do You Know Your Donors?
