In this article, we clear up common misconceptions about what the cloud means for non-profit organizations.
Many non-profits consider moving to the cloud to help with their biggest organizational challenge: to do more with less. Non-profits are stretched thin – with staff, donations, and volunteers losing ground against increasing demands for resources and benefits – and are looking to close the gap. Cloud ERP technology provides a flexible, affordable, and secure solution to achieve precisely that. Moving to cloud ERP has a lot of benefits and can empower your staff to work securely and effectively – no matter where they’re located or which devices they’re using.
If your organization has been considering the cloud, you may have encountered inconsistencies or common misconceptions in your search that make it difficult to separate fact from fiction. This article will help clear up any misconceptions about what cloud solutions like cloud ERP can do for your non-profit organization.
Common Misconceptions Your Non-Profit May Have About the Cloud
🔎 Myth 1: Tech is just an IT concern
Cloud technology is integral to improving every aspect of your non-profit organization, as it offers business advantages that benefit far more than just IT. Cloud ERP powers all kinds of critical efficiencies that will make your organization more productive even as resources get stretched thin. From fundraising and volunteer management to financial reporting, cloud ERP makes it possible to leverage its advantages without requiring a huge, dedicated IT department.
🔎 Myth 2: Cloud ERP is expensive
Cloud-based ERP is the top choice for small and mid-sized companies because of the cloud's affordability compared to on-premises solutions. As it’s hosted in the cloud, your organization does not have the capital expenditure of having to purchase the hardware and infrastructure to host the solution in-house. Cloud solutions are also typically billed as a monthly or annual subscription fee based on the number of users required. Plus, you don’t have the associated annual maintenance costs and dedicated IT expenditure. Not to mention, as a non-profit organization, you may qualify for grants and discounts. For example, Microsoft offers discounts across all its cloud products and services to non-profits that will further reduce the costs of switching to the cloud.
🔎 Myth 3: Migrating to the cloud is too complicated for my non-profit
The thought of migrating to the cloud can be daunting when you’ve got your hands full with growing needs and a shrinking number of resources. You don’t have to move everything at once. In most cases, you can use your existing tools and processes throughout the transition without interrupting day-to-day operations. Plus, partnering with a technology partner that you trust and shares your goals can ease the process. For instance, at Kwixand Solutions, we offer Kwixstart implementation plans with a fixed fee and fixed timeline for companies wanting to get up and running quickly and constrain risks.
🔎 Myth 4: Keeping data on-premises is safer than keeping it in the cloud
With on-premises solutions, the responsibility of data security is solely on your organization. With the growing number of cyberattacks that occur everyday, it’s nearly impossible for non-profits to assemble a security team large enough to stay ahead of them all. With cloud solutions, you share the responsibility with your cloud provider, who can deliver enterprise-grade security far beyond what your company can provide internally. For instance, Microsoft invests over $1B yearly into cybersecurity research and development.
🔎 Myth 5: Learning a new solution requires training which is costly
When you work with an implementation partner, the cost of training your employees is typically included in your implementation plan. A good partner should also offer training resources like videos and how-to guides for future reference. Check with your provider as well; they may offer additional no or low-cost training programs. For instance, Microsoft has partnered to create a Digital Skills Center for Non-profits with self-paced and instructor-led courses on their various cloud solutions.
🔎 Myth 6: New cloud technology and automation will eliminate jobs
The goal of cloud technology and automating your business processes is not to reduce staff. Instead, it significantly reduces the tedious manual work for your employees, freeing them up to be more productive and spend time on tasks that are more valuable. Many non-profits find that there isn’t enough time in the day to get everything done. By automating repetitive, manual tasks and embracing the cloud, your staff can do more in the time they have and extend your outreach.
Considering the Cloud? Kwixand Solutions Can Help
Book a free consultation with our team if you’d like to learn more about cloud ERP and how it can transform your non-profit organization. At Kwixand Solutions, we guide companies across Canada and the US on their digital transformation journey. We believe in providing lasting value and ensure that the solutions and strategies we design for your specific organization set you up for long-term success and help you achieve your goals.
Source: Microsoft, 10 nonprofit technology myths debunked
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