Since the data breach incident involving Blackbaud’s Raiser’s Edge platform in 2020, nonprofits once steadfast in their loyalty to the software have been actively seeking alternative solutions. While both Raiser’s Edge and Salesforce’s Nonprofit Cloud (NPC) aim to enhance data management and stakeholder engagement, their effectiveness varies. As organizations grow, the NPC proves to be a better alternative due to its high level of customization and functionality, making it a top choice for nonprofits. Here are the five main reasons to consider switching from Raiser’s Edge to Salesforce:
Dated software shouldn’t hold back your nonprofit organization. By embracing secure, flexible, and future-forward solutions like Salesforce’s Nonprofit Cloud, you can innovate, adapt, and respond to the ever-evolving needs of your stakeholders and members. Explore how Avideon can assist you in making a seamless transition to Salesforce and unlock the full potential of your nonprofit’s CRM.
Make the move today, and propel your organization into a brighter, more efficient future. Don’t wait; the time to switch is now.
1. Unparalleled Data Security
The security of your donor data is paramount. Salesforce takes data security to a whole new level with unique, strong usernames and passwords for each user, coupled with multi-factor authentication. In contrast, Raiser’s Edge faced vulnerabilities through easily guessable administrative passwords.
Salesforce offers granular control over data access, allowing you to set permissions based on specific tasks, such as viewing or editing data. Plus, they use advanced security methods, ensuring that your data is well-protected within the Salesforce Cloud.
2. SaaS Convenience Over Legacy Software
Raiser’s Edge, with its more than 30-year history, was initially developed as on-premise software. Even with its latest iteration, RE NXT, clients are required to host their databases on a VPN, creating inconveniences and delays in accessing real-time information.
Salesforce operates on a multi-tenant architecture, providing consistent updates and top-level performance. It’s accessible from anywhere, eliminating the need for legacy software and enabling organizations to tailor it to their specific needs.
3. Increased Functionality
Salesforce’s Nonprofit Cloud is a robust solution used by over 40,000 nonprofits and associations. It offers comprehensive support for various critical functions such as fundraising, grants management, donor engagement, and member management. Beyond being a CRM, Salesforce provides a 360-degree view of stakeholder interactions, coupled with powerful analytical tools and reporting capabilities.
Salesforce simplifies donor acquisition, relationship nurturing, and engagement through development and fundraising workflows. Additionally, it integrates with tools like Pardot or Marketing Cloud for automated email marketing. The analytical tools and AI within Salesforce help you make data-driven decisions swiftly.
4. Superior Agility and Integration
Unlike legacy software such as Raiser’s Edge, Salesforce offers a configurable solution that adapts to your evolving strategies and operational needs. Raiser’s Edge often forces organizations to adjust their processes to the limitations of the software, a less-than-ideal approach.
Salesforce, on the other hand, provides an open API, offering numerous integration options to create a holistic view of stakeholders. Its AppExchange includes an array of apps and CRM overlays designed specifically for nonprofits, enhancing your Salesforce investment’s value.
5. Specialized Implementation Partners
The Salesforce community is replete with implementation partners, including experts like Avideon, who specialize in customizing and integrating Salesforce for nonprofits and associations. Their expertise brings increased functionality and convenience, elevating your CRM experience beyond what Raiser’s Edge can offer.