Episode 1: 5 Musts for Great Nonprofit and Foundation Websites

In this episode of the Tech Savvy Nonprofit, we discuss five essential things that should be part of every nonprofit or foundation’s website.

1. Good Bones

• Ability to update the site (easy-to-use CMS)
• Runs smooth and is fast
• Built mobile-first
• Google Analytics
• Optimized for search
• Security

 2. The Right Messaging

• Positioning. Clear and concise (rather than we do a bunch of programs).
• Avoid the internal jargon.
• Know your audiences and speak to them
• What is your story? Make us love you more.

3. Navigation That is Easy to Follow

• Don’t overwhelm your audience
• If you have to direct people as to where to find things on your website, you have a navigation issue.
• Don’t structure your menu like you structure your organization. Your audience doesn’t think in the terms you do.
• Think like your audience!! How would they be looking for content?

4. Professional Design that Reflects Your Organization

• Just because you are a nonprofit doesn’t mean your site should look outdate.
• Part of design should be user experience.
• Hire a professional.
• Does the website reflect the experience a client/volunteer/member/potential donor has in person? It should!

5. Grows your impact

• Websites are often forgotten about, but they are working for your org 24/7
• Your website is not a flyer or business card
• What organizational goals do you have tied to your website?
• The content (messaging and imagery) makes the audience want to engage with your organization, whether it is via volunteering, donating or spreading the word
• How are you making the case for your organization on an on-going basis?