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Technology Expert
Since 2004, BizSolutions360 (B360) has served almost 50 organizations in the Washington, DC metropolitan area. These clients have come to rely on B360's expertise, because they have seen us at work. What they may not realize is that B360 recruits caring and committed technologists, trains them thoroughly, and encourages their ongoing professional development. The result is a culture of excellence.
Computer & Network Support
No matter your organization's size and structure, your technology infrastructure consists of computers, connections between them (a "network"), printers, internet connections, means for reading and sending email, software for doing your work, and tools for protecting and securing your data. B360's expert technologists make these essential tools work well together and enhance your ability to get your work done. Specific computer and network support services include:
- Network architecture design and implementation
- Email and internet configuration
- Technical audits
- On-call troubleshooting and emergency support
- Remote access (for offsite access to files, email, etc.)
- Security: back-ups, anti-virus, anti-spam, anti-spyware and disaster recovery planning
- Procurement assistance*
- Software installation and configuration
- Ongoing routine maintenance and scheduled support
- Support for Windows and Macintosh environments
- RemoteAssist: a means for troubleshooting via telephone and internet (saving the costs of an on-site visit)
- Full-Time Support (placement of a B360 staff member at your location 36 hours per week)
Generally, B360 begins a new engagement with a “technical audit” that enables us to understand not only the state of your current information technology infrastructure, but also the mission of your organization and your operational goals and challenges. The result is a document that suggests upgrades for increasing efficiency, stability and security; as well as a plan for sufficient routine maintenance to make IT crises and emergencies a distant memory.
*B360 does not resell hardware or software. Our advice to you is objective, because we do not stand to benefit from your purchases.
Database Development & Administration
All organizations need databases that put contacts, donors, program, and other information at their fingertips. Many will have built their databases over time, resulting in a hodge-podge of information that is difficult to manage.
B360 can work with you to turn your data into living applications that integrate with the rest of your operations and empower your success. Specific database services include:
- Custom Database Development
- Improving Your Existing Database - e.g., creating new reports, forms or fields
- Web-Enabled Databases – for accessing and manipulating data via your website or via an extranet
- Database Administration – B360 can help you keep your database running smoothly over time
Software Selection
Myriad commercial software packages claim to offer the functionality that organizations need to manage information and finances, track donors, etc. It is a daunting task to understand these offerings, nevertheless compare them to custom-built solutions. An additional level of complexity comes with decisions about whether to buy solution “suites” (software packages that offer all-in-one functionality) vs. buying individual programs to do the job.
Fortunately, B360 has specific knowledge of fundraising, member and donor management, accounting, client relationship management, and advocacy software. We also know comparable online services and can help you understand the pros and cons of any approach. B360's software selection practice can work with you on any or all of the following:
- Requirements discovery
- Documenting business processes
- Identifying potential vendors
- Developing requests for proposals (RFPs)
- Reviewing and analyzing received proposals
- Evaluating software demonstrations
- Performing gap/fit analysis
- Facilitating contract negotiations
Software Implementation & Integration
Deciding on the software you need is only half the battle. Equally important is installing it and making it run on your network and integrate with your other software tools. B360 has expertise in helping organizations realize the full potential of Quickbooks, Raisers Edge and many other software packages.
Technology and Organizational Change
The success of technology projects depends more on how the people involved respond than on the technology itself. B360 can help you grapple with retooling internal processes, assist with developing standards and procedures, and provide coaching for leadership and staff. Our approach encourages participation and ownership, creating buy-in opportunities for staff and other stakeholders.
Strategic Technology Planning
Though technology has traditionally been considered a merely a support function or even a necessary evil by many organizations, this approach is no longer viable. Few of us are able to get our day-to-day work done without a smoothly running network running essential software tools and connecting to the internet. Technology also offers organizations enormous potential to inform opinions, share knowledge, manage operations, and motivate supporters. In order to stop technology failures from interfering with your daily work and capitalize on all that technology offers, you need to recognize it as a function on par with programs and development. And you have to get beyond merely fixing what's broken and paying for technology out of contingency or (worse) program funds. |
