Are you ready to elevate your nonprofit’s impact with Salesforce? Selecting the right partner is crucial for unlocking the full potential of this powerful platform. Here’s everything you need to know about the benefits of working with a partner and how to choose the right one for your organization.

Benefits of Using a Partner

• Expert Guidance and Support: Salesforce offers a user-friendly interface with its “clicks-not-code” design, making it accessible for nonprofits. However, more advanced features like Flows may require specialized skills. Data from Building Movement Project shows 78% of nonprofits report “operations, communication, and development” as their top infrastructure challenge. Working with an experienced partner can alleviate the challenge.

• Custom Solutions, Tailored to Your Mission: A skilled implementation partner can customize the platform in a way that’s tailored to your organization’s unique mission and requirements, ensuring that your Salesforce solutions align perfectly with your goals.

• Maximized ROI and Impact: Investing in Salesforce is an investment in the future of your organization and the communities you serve. Research from Tech Impact shows that 62% of nonprofits who invest in their CRM report a moderate or high ROI.

• Empowering Your Team for Success: Your team is your greatest asset, and empowering them with the right tools and training is essential for success. According to research from Statista, limited staff capacity and difficulty recruiting and retaining quality staff are two of the top three challenges facing nonprofits. A knowledgeable partner can provide comprehensive training and support to ensure that your team is equipped with the skills they need to succeed with Salesforce.

• Agility and Innovation: In today’s rapidly evolving nonprofit landscape, agility and innovation are key to staying ahead of the curve. A strategic partner can keep you at the forefront of technology and best practices, implementing the latest Salesforce features and integrating cutting-edge third-party solutions to drive innovation in your organization.

Steps for Selecting the Right Partner

1. Define Your Goals and Objectives

Before selecting a partner, have a clear understanding of your organization’s goals and challenges. What do you hope to achieve with Salesforce? Clearly defining your objectives will help you select a partner who can help you achieve them effectively.

2. Research Potential Partners

Take the time to research potential implementation partners. Evaluate their expertise, experience, and strong results for clients, especially with nonprofits similar to yours. Look for partners who have a proven track record of success in delivering results.

3. Ask the Right Questions

When evaluating potential partners, ask questions about their approach to Salesforce implementation, what sets them apart, and the support and training they offer. Understanding their process and capabilities will help you determine if they are the right fit for your organization.

4. Request References

Request references and case studies from potential partners to gain insight into their past work and client satisfaction. Speaking with past clients can provide valuable insights into what it’s like to work with a partner and the results they’ve previously achieved.

5. Evaluate Communication and Collaboration

Effective communication and collaboration are essential for a successful implementation. Pay attention to how potential partners communicate and collaborate with you. A partner who prioritizes communication and collaboration will be better equipped to meet your needs and expectations.

6. Consider Long-Term Support and Partnership

Above all, selecting a partner is not just about the implementation process; it’s also about building a long-term relationship. Consider the level of support and partnership that potential partners offer beyond the initial implementation. Choose a partner who is committed to your long-term success and will support you as your organization grows and evolves.
Partnering with the right implementation partner can be the difference between a successful Salesforce implementation and a missed opportunity. By choosing a partner who understands your organization’s unique needs and goals, you can unlock the full potential of Salesforce and drive meaningful impact for your cause.

We are proud to be a Salesforce Crest Partner partnering with nonprofits since 2012 in their Salesforce implementation journeys and beyond. Looking for help getting started with Salesforce? Reach out to us today.