Over 2,500 voluntary
sector agencies across the country were surveyed to study the needs
and priorities of the Voluntary Sector. As part of the technology needs
assessment, over 50 key informants in the Canadian voluntary sector
were interviewed; a literature search was completed on the use of technology;
and the IM/IT Joint Table report was released.
The report identifies
a set of options that are highly valued by voluntary organizations,
can be implemented, and have high potential for impact across the entire
sector.
Technology is seen
as a tool, not an end in itself. Investments in information and communication
technologies should be tied to organizational goals rather than assessed
in isolation. Accordingly, the methodology of the study focused on the
needs of the sector as a whole, and how technology could meet those
needs.
The top five
choices of where to invest in technology are:
An inexpensive
and user-friendly online database of funders, with detailed information
about whom they fund and how to apply. The service should make it
easier to apply for funding by allowing organizations of all sizes
to search for funding for which they are eligible.
Direct funding
or discounted prices for computers, software, internet connections
and system upgrades.
More flexibility
from funders to allow organizations to buy computers and software
or upgrade their systems as an ongoing operating expense.
Reduced administration
and paperwork by eliminating duplication of paperwork through the
creation of a common online database of information that funders frequently
request.
A national website
that would provide 'one-stop shopping' of information for and about
the voluntary sector. The website would include news updates, best
practices, links to important Web resources, advocacy tools including
email campaigns and research about the sector.
Other highly rated
choices involved fund-raising tools, online and distance training
for staff and volunteers, the inexpensive creation of agency web pages,
and simple ways to locate detailed contact information about other
voluntary sector organizations.
