As you prepare to evaluate proposals from potential digital giving platform partners, it’s helpful to define clear criteria that will guide your selection. These categories ensure you not only choose a platform that meets your functional needs but also a vendor that aligns with your organization’s culture, mission, and long-term strategy.
Prioritize vendors with a proven track record working with nonprofit organizations like yours — especially those similar in size, mission, and technology stack. Experience with platforms like Salesforce NPSP or Nonprofit Cloud, donor portals, and digital giving infrastructure is especially valuable.
“We’re seeking a partner that understands nonprofit workflows deeply — not just in theory, but with real success in similar settings.”
Key indicators to look for include:
Evaluate how well each proposed platform addresses your most critical requirements. Beyond functional fit, consider the overall design, ease of use for both your team and your donors, and whether the platform is built to scale with your future vision.
“We’re not just checking boxes. We need a solution that improves the donor experience and adapts to our growth.”
Look for:
Strong integration with your CRM and other systems should be non-negotiable. Look for real-time, bi-directional data sync (especially with Salesforce), error handling, and reliable deduplication processes.
“We rely on clean, seamless data flow. Any vendor we choose must be technically sound and CRM-compatible.”
Your evaluation should confirm:
Don’t overlook the importance of how the platform will be delivered. Review the vendor’s proposed implementation plan for clarity around phases, timeline, communication cadence, and roles on both sides.
“Even the best software can fail without a solid plan. We want confidence in how the vendor will deliver and support the rollout.”
Key elements to ask about:
Look at total cost through the lens of value, not just price. Ask for detailed breakdowns of all fees — including setup, licensing, transaction, and training — and clarify what’s recurring versus one-time.
“We’re investing in outcomes. The goal is a cost-effective solution that delivers long-term impact.”
Consider:
Assess the vendor’s credibility through their references, certifications, and testimonials. Seek feedback from peer organizations with similar needs and platforms.
“We want real-world confidence. A vendor’s past success with organizations like ours means a stronger partnership moving forward.”
You’ll want to check for:
Finally, consider whether the vendor’s team aligns with your values and way of working. The best partners understand the nonprofit mission, communicate openly, and act in service of your goals—not just their product.
“We’re not just buying software. We’re choosing a partner who gets what we do and how we work.”
Signs of a strong cultural match include: