How to Build or Edit a Website without Technical Skills

Introduction to Content Management Systems

Thursday, July 10th, 1:00 - 2:30 EST. 

If you need a way to update your website, but you're not sure where to start, this is the session for you. We'll we talk about what content management systems are, and look at various affordable options for updating your website text and images, including using What-You-See-Is-What-You-Get software like DreamWeaver and Contribute, website-in-a-box tools like Homesite, blog tools like WordPress, open source tools like Joomla and Drupal, and more. Register now>

Getting Your Software Systems to Speak to Each Other

Understanding Data Integration

Thursday, July 24th, 1:00 - 2:30 EST. 

Are you wondering what it would take to allow your software packages to share data? In this session, we’ll talk through the high level options and key considerations, and then dive into some of the technical terms and concepts that will help you understand what would be involved in programming an automatic connection between software packages. We'll discuss possibilities in integrating the software you already have, and what features you should look when choosing new software to prevent integration woes. Register now>

Getting Started with Online Donations

Wednesday, Sep 3rd, 1:00 - 2:30 EST. Presented by Laura Quinn  

Do you want to help your organization take donations online, but aren't sure how? This session will tell you what you need to know in order to choose a tool and get started. We'll touch on some of the strategic aspects of online donations, but our focus will be on the tactical: What online donation tools a re available? How do they work? How do you know which one is right for your organization? We'll close by looking more closely at some of the specific tools that are available, such as Network for Good, PayPay, Click & Pledge, Groundspring DonateNow, eTapestry, MemberClicks, AuctionPay, and more. Register now>

Choosing a Low Cost Constituent Database

Thursday,September 4th, 1:00 - 2:30 EST.  Presented by Eric Leland

There are a number of solid and affordable options to track your volunteers, donors, partners, and other constituents. What should a small organization look for? What tools are available? How should you choose? We'll walk through everything you need to know to pick the right database for your organization, and consider the pros and cons of commonly used databases such as GiftWorks, DonorPerfect Online, eTapestry, Salesforce, DonorPerfect, and Democracy In Action. Register now>

Introduction to Website Analytics

Thursday, Sept 11th, 1:00 - 2:30 EST. 

How many people visit your Web site every day? What are visitors doing when they get there? Which features are most popular? We'll talk through the tools and strategies you can use to get the answers to these questions. Through demos of free tools such as AWStats and Google Analytics, we'll look at what these tools can tell you about your site, and what the statistics mean. We'll close with a discussion of when more advanced statisics packages - such as ClickTracks or WebTrends- might be useful. Register now>

Choosing eNewsletter Software

Thursday, September 18th, 1:00 - 2:30 EST. 

Email newsletters are a great way to stay in touch with and grow your audience, but it can be complex to send and track thousands of emails. In this seminar, we'll walk through what you need to know in order to setup, send, and track eNewsletters effectively, and talk about some of the reliable and affordable tools most commonly used for mass emailing, such as EmailNow, ConstantContact, NPOGroups, CampaignMonitor, Vertical Response, Emma, Topica, and more. Register now>