Tag Archives: website redesign

What Nonprofit Webmasters Talk About

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This week I attended the quarterly get together of the Not-for-Profit Webmaster Round Table, chaired by long time leader David Milner.  As usual, discussion was lively covering topics such as:

  • Google Analytics – use scheduled reports often to get colleagues to look at data but make sure they understand some of the basic terms – e.g. page views, visits etc.
  • Surviving a website redesign – David suggested an ‘outside in’ approach to consider what site visitors are looking for rather than ‘inside out’ – where you spend most of your time getting feedback from others in your organization.  Another interesting point – when selecting a developer, remember that the firm that creates the design doesn’t necessarily have to implement it.
  • Content management systems – While CMS products offer the potential of allowing staff through a nonprofit to update web content, many of us have had mixed success in actually achieving that goal.  Bill Swersey of the Asia Society (thanks for hosting the meeting) showed us a wiki which includes an internal style guide as well as tips on how to create online content.  Another idea mentioned was to revise job descriptions to include responsibility for website updates
  • Donate now – Is it really important to put a prominent button throughout your website?   My take – you want to make sure that those who are ready to contribute can do so easily – and can get through the process without having to fill out a lot of information – and are not distracted by extraneous links to other website pages
  • Facebook ads – Bill commented on the amazing targeting capability available within Facebook so your ad can display to a very selective audience

If you’re in New York, please join the conversation at the next meeting in December.  If not, consider joining our LinkedIn group.

Tips for Effective Website Redesign

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As other forms of online communication have become available, the main website is no longer the only place where constituents can get information about a nonprofit.   However, it is still important to make sure that the website provides a current and accurate picture of your organization.  Considering a redesign?  If so:

  1. Examine your motivation.  If your prime purpose is to utilize a new technology or to mimic what other nonprofits are doing, that’s not enough of a reason.  If you want to make it easier for supporters to find what they need and to feel more connected with your organization’s mission, then you’re on the right track.
  2. Plan what content management system (CMS) will best suit your needs.  As has always been the case with technology, you need to find the right balance between functionality and ease of use.  Your staff must feel comfortable with whatever tool you select so they will keep the website up to date.
  3. Before hiring a consultant or agency to help manage the process, make sure you speak with references.  Beware those who are overly committed to one product or platform, especially if they haven’t yet taken the time to understand your needs.
  4. Check for consistency with other communication channels: images, messaging, design.  If you’re planning a new look for your website, your other materials will need to change too.
  5. Make sure your new design provides multiple ways for constituents to give feedback and to be engaged.  Provide links or active feeds from your Facebook and Twitter streams.
  6. Identify all stakeholders in your organization and set up a process by which departments work together throughout site development – website redesign must be a collaborative process.
  7. Get feedback from constituents before, during and after the new site is launched.  Don’t fall into the trap of getting opinions mostly from co-workers or from the consultant / vendor that’s assisting you.
  8. Consider using agile project management processes to split the project into small chunks.  This will allow you to celebrate small successes and make changes along the way.
  9. Don’t forget to include staff training in your project plan, especially if you’re implementing a new CMS.  Provide training in many formats: printed documentation, on screen FAQs, webinars, live classes etc.
  10. Using tools such as Google Analytics, take the time to analyze what your constituents are most frequently seeking, and make sure your new design reflects those needs.

Website design doesn’t end when you launch the new site.  As you continue to get supporter feedback, continue to tweak as needed.  A website should be constantly evolving as you discover new ways to inform and engage your audience.