TechSoup Wiki : hsc - all changes

CLbootcamp07

72.220.184.20 — Tue, 30 Dec 2008 22:06:00 GMT

Software Products

TechSoup Stock

Microsoft Office 2007 ($20)
Microsoft Project Standard 2007 ($24)
Adobe CS3 - $160 (includes Dreamweaver)
QuickBooks 2006 $18
Filemaker Pro - $175/copy (Ease of use, cross-platform, Instant Web Publisher)

Online Free Applications

Google Apps - Shared documents, Calendar, Spreadsheets, Gmail, Groups
Yahoo - Instant Messenger, Mail, Calendar, Groups
Others: Glide, iNetWord, ThinkFree, Zoho

Shareware & Freeware

VersionTracker (Software downloads, reviews and updates for all types of commercial software, shareware and freeware for Macintosh, Windows and Palm.)
ZDNet

Surveying

Survey Monkey - $175/year unlimited for NPOs, limited free access
Zoomerang - $360/year NPO
ReForm/Anyware - WiFi Palm-based, web designer, from $125/month

Other Resources/Articles:

Free Software, Handpicked for Nonprofits (this is actually a reprint of the NGO-in-a-Box, from Tactical Technology Collective and iCommons).
Creating an Open-Source Desktop (this discusses open-source software that falls under a variety of categories beyond Office Productivity).
Ten Free Browser Add-Ons to Help Nonprofits Work Faster (a list of good Firefox Add-Ons).
Eight Tools to Keep Your Team Connected (free software for working long-distance; not sure if this is the right category).
Microsoft Office vs. OpenOffice.org (Idealware does a head-to-head comparison of the two office suites)
Three Free Software Applications You Can't Live Without (three packages that won't cost a dime)
An Introduction to Web Apps (The basics of online software)
Shared Wisdom: Top-Notch Free Software (Nonprofit techies share their essential freeware applications)
Overcome the Challenges of Distance with Free Online Tools (Manage your nonprofit's international projects using these handy resources)

Security

Description

Precautions to keep your hardware, software and data safe and secure.

Checklist

firewalls
data backups
anti-virus/spam/malware
physical security

Tools

( Free downloads and other donated products on TechSoup)

Ad-Aware 2007 (removes adware and spyware, free)
Spybot Search & Destroy (detects and removes adware and malware, checks your system against a comprehensive database of adware and other system invaders, cleans program and Web-usage tracks, and offers an online-update feature, free)
Norton Personal Firewall 2006 hides a computer from hackers, detects and blocks malicious intrusions, and prevents attacks through security holes)
Norton 360 (protects against online threats and includes tools for tuning up systems and backing up data)

Other Resources/Articles

Healthy & Secure Computing Guide : this workbook has steps and recommendations for creating a healthy and secure computing environment and establishing a sound technology infrastructure at your nonprofit.
Three Free Software Applications You Can't Live Without
Secure Computing: The Key Ingredients
Removing Spyware, Viruses, and Other Malware from Windows
Backing Up Your Data
Firewalls and You
Anti-Spyware Toolkit

Online Fundraising

Checklist

How do online donations fit into your overall strategy? Is it the only way you will fundraise or part of a bigger picture?
What kind of volume do you expect?
Do you want to set up a merchant account?
How tightly does it need to integrate with your site?
How are you going to use the donation data?

Tools

Other Resources/Articles

Idealware article
Techsoup: Selecting an Online Donation Tool: Part 1 and Part 2 .
Online Donation Software Engines

Database Tools & Event Management/Registration

How to choose an information management tool

Define Your Needs: Write out how you do the work you do. Then fill in the places where you gather and use information
Prioritize Needs: What part(s) of information management are the most painful, have the fewest decent workarounds? Do these first.
Determine Your Capacity: Ballpark $$ and human resources to make sure you do not break the bank
Talk to Colleagues: How have they solved the problems you faced? What research have they done?
Evaluate Solutions: Start with prebuilt systems, if nothing meets your needs then consider customization?

How are databases delivered?

Prebuilt: Ready to use systems: more finished, less configurable (time to deployment short, cost low, fit imperfect)
Frameworks: Almost ready to use: configure/customize on core features to finish (time to deployment medium, cost medium, fit better)
Custom: Not ready to use: you define it, they build it (time to deployment long, cost high, fit best)

Tools

CRM "Frameworks":

Salesforce.com: Focuses on tracking people, their roles and interactions with your organization. 10 Licenses free for qualified 501c3 nonprofits. Lots of configurable extras. Larger, more complex system, not a simple contact manager.
FreeCRM.com: Free versions and fee versions. A clunkier version of Salesforce, but you can get going right away.
Metrix/ebase : Free desktop software with limited support, very configurable but can be time consuming to learn and use effectively.

Donor Systems:

Giftworks : $199/license. Really easy to use system for donor management, desktop/PC only.
eTapestry : Online donor management system. Free for the first 500 contacts, then prices go up from there. Supports the "Benevon" model of fundraising. Just purchased by Blackbaud, look for changes over the next year. Great for folks with smaller donor lists, may be too expensive for folks with larger lists.

Registration Systems:

Other Resources/Articles

A Few Good RSVP Tools

CMS/Web Presence tools

Checklist

What do you need your site for? An online brochure? Building Community? Advocacy? Know the purpose of your site and choose features that support this purpose.
Make a list of your FEATURE needs, and then prioritize. Remember that you can not have it all!
Make a list of your ADMINISTRATIVE needs, and the prioritize. Remember that you can not have it all!
Have a budget. Know what it is, and know that some features may not be available for your budget.
How will you staff your site? Is it a volunteer? A board member? The whole staff? One staff person? Who, how, and how often you need to update your site needs to be taken into consideration.

CMS

Bryght :
Joomla
Drupal
Plone : Recommend nonprofits first check out One Northwest Resources on Plone here .
CivicSpace on Demand

BLOGS

Resources

OpenSourceCMS.com
A few good resources for managing simple sites: http://www.idealware.org/articles/fgt_cms_simple_sites.php
Getting Started with Blogging Software: http://www.idealware.org/blogging_software/

Email/Listserv/Web hosting

Email Checklist

Web Design

Depends on expertise
Custom Design - Nonprofit recommendations
DOCUMENT EVERYTHING - volunteer web designers leave and you can't update the site
Who updates site?
Maintainable

Web hosting tools

Marketing

Newsletters: Check out Idealware's article
GroupMail : Non-profit and academic discount available as of summer 2007.

Listservs/eNewsletters

Advertising

Google : Advertising donation program for non-profits in the US and internationally.

Social Networking Sites

Online Printers

Other Resources/Articles

ISPs

Internet Service Providers

ISP Checklist

Bandwidth guaranteed
Static IPs
Domain names
Configure router
Allow protocols (file sharing, etc.)
Telephone support
Web-based administration

Tools

Pair.com - web hosting
laughing squid - email and web host
electricembers.com - listserv host
thinkhost.com - Green web hosting
sonic.net - DSL, "Business T"

Additional Resources

Bandwidth Meter speed test: http://reviews.cnet.com/7004-7254_7-0.html
Broadband Internet Access Service Providers http://www.broadbandinfo.com/
Choosing the Best Internet Connection
Non Profit ISP help

Web Hosting

"Recommended web hosting companies" thread on TechSoup Forums

Network

Brief Description

A network is two or more computers connected to each other so they can share resources. The Internet is a "network of networks," whereby anyone -- from an individual at a home with a PC to a large corporate multidepartment system -- can freely and easily exchange information.
Checklist:
What type of network do you need: peer-to-peer network or client-server network

Consider WiFi instead of wiring
Find wiring installers who work with nonprofits, especially private contractors
Get permission from landlord before wiring
Security & firewall
Allow staff to access the server remotely with a Virtual Private Network (VPN)

Tools

Healthy & Secure Computing
Techfinder

Articles/Toolkits

Networks 101: An Introduction to Server Applications

Forums/Discussion Boards

Online wiring resource thread on TechSoup Forums

Hardware

Checklist

Needs assessment - graphics? Office?
Double the standard RAM
Remove unwanted bloatware
Warranty - worth it?
Replacement in 3-4 years
Flat-screen = Green
Printers - networked; Laser; Inkjet $$$$ for ink
Backups

Used or reconditioned sources

Craigslist - recent equipment, good for years
Goodwill
TechSoup Stock
Apple NPO discount - Mac Minis for $550

Additional Resources

Project/Staff/Board (Collaboration) Management

Basecamp
Google Docs/Calendar
WebEx
GoToMeeting
Vyew

Telecommunications

skype
voip
ReadyTalk on TSS
Instant Messaging
Instant messaging: yahoo/AIM/GAIM

http://www.freeconference.com/

Staffing & Support

Checklist

What's the right way to staff your project? Is it a one-time project suitable for a volunteer or a long-term commitment hat might be better for a staff person or consultant?
What skills do you need? How will you evaluate people's skills?
Have you clearly articulated what you think you need?
Be prepared to hear from a volunteer, consultant, or staffer that your project may need to change.
Who will manage the volunteer, consultant, or staffer?
Document deliverables, timelines and budgets to all involved.

Resources (consultants)
techunderground.org
techfinder.org
Craigslist
dealist.org
NTEN Affinity Groups ( http://groups.nten.org)

Resources (staff)

Craigslist
Idealist.org
NTEN Affinity Groups ( http://groups.nten.org)

Resources (volunteers)

Taproot
VolunteerMatch
Craigslist
Idealist.org
NTEN Affinity Groups ( http://groups.nten.org)

Resources (general)

NTEN IT Staffing Report: http://www.nten.org/research/itstaffing

Training

Goodwill Free Learning
Compasspoint
Infopeople
Webjunction
NTEN Webinars
NTEN Member Discounts
TechSoup Stock

GIS/Mapping

Checklist

Define the problem to address through GIS/Mapping
Identify the data required to inform the problem, and whether/how you can get it
Depth of Analysis (Mapping vs GIS): Do you need to visualize this data only, or analyze it, or both?
Review available mapping and GIS software solutions against your requirements and infrastructure

Tools

google maps/earth: http://maps.google.com | http://earth.google.com
Neighborhood Knowledge California: Map your neighborhood in California using this online Mapping/GIS tool: http://nkca.ucla.edu
Social Source Commons GIS Toolkit: A terrific annotated list of GIS and Mapping software/services with a nonprofit focus: http://www.socialsourcecommons.org/toolkit/show/485

Resources

Why GIS? Intro to what it is, why it is useful. http://maps2.humaninet.org/why-gis/
Community Mapping Best Practices and Software Listings: http://www.policylink.org/Research/Mapping/default.html

Summary of Resources

- TechSoup Stock
- Free Download Section of TechSoup
- NTEN
- Idealware
- YNPN

Idealware.org
Idealware provides candid Consumer-Reports-style reviews and articles about software of interest to nonprofits, centralized into a website.
http://idealware.org
SocialSource Commons
Social Source Commons is a place to share lists of software tools that you already use, gain knowledge and support, and discover new tools
http://socialsourcecommons.org/

Use the Web to Find Free Tech Support
Resources to help your nonprofit solve its technology problems
http://www.techsoup.org/learningcenter/internet/page5722.cfm

Three Free, Easy Ways to Add a Calendar to Your Web Site
Keep your visitors informed about upcoming events
http://www.techsoup.org/learningcenter/webbuilding/page6690.cfm

CLbootcamp07 (Reverted to Oct 3, 2007 1:48 pm)

tsg_kevin — Fri, 03 Oct 2008 17:20:53 GMT

Software Products

TechSoup Stock

Microsoft Office 2007 ($20)
Microsoft Project Standard 2007 ($24)
Adobe CS3 - $160 (includes Dreamweaver)
QuickBooks 2006 $18
Filemaker Pro - $175/copy (Ease of use, cross-platform, Instant Web Publisher)

Online Free Applications

Google Apps - Shared documents, Calendar, Spreadsheets, Gmail, Groups
Yahoo - Instant Messenger, Mail, Calendar, Groups
Others: Glide, iNetWord, ThinkFree, Zoho

Shareware & Freeware

VersionTracker (Software downloads, reviews and updates for all types of commercial software, shareware and freeware for Macintosh, Windows and Palm.)
ZDNet

Surveying

Survey Monkey - $175/year unlimited for NPOs, limited free access
Zoomerang - $360/year NPO
ReForm/Anyware - WiFi Palm-based, web designer, from $125/month

Other Resources/Articles:

Free Software, Handpicked for Nonprofits (this is actually a reprint of the NGO-in-a-Box, from Tactical Technology Collective and iCommons).
Creating an Open-Source Desktop (this discusses open-source software that falls under a variety of categories beyond Office Productivity).
Ten Free Browser Add-Ons to Help Nonprofits Work Faster (a list of good Firefox Add-Ons).
Eight Tools to Keep Your Team Connected (free software for working long-distance; not sure if this is the right category).
Microsoft Office vs. OpenOffice.org (Idealware does a head-to-head comparison of the two office suites)
Three Free Software Applications You Can't Live Without (three packages that won't cost a dime)
An Introduction to Web Apps (The basics of online software)
Shared Wisdom: Top-Notch Free Software (Nonprofit techies share their essential freeware applications)
Overcome the Challenges of Distance with Free Online Tools (Manage your nonprofit's international projects using these handy resources)

Security

Description

Precautions to keep your hardware, software and data safe and secure.

Checklist

firewalls
data backups
anti-virus/spam/malware
physical security

Tools

( Free downloads and other donated products on TechSoup)

Ad-Aware 2007 (removes adware and spyware, free)
Spybot Search & Destroy (detects and removes adware and malware, checks your system against a comprehensive database of adware and other system invaders, cleans program and Web-usage tracks, and offers an online-update feature, free)
Norton Personal Firewall 2006 hides a computer from hackers, detects and blocks malicious intrusions, and prevents attacks through security holes)
Norton 360 (protects against online threats and includes tools for tuning up systems and backing up data)

Other Resources/Articles

Healthy & Secure Computing Guide : this workbook has steps and recommendations for creating a healthy and secure computing environment and establishing a sound technology infrastructure at your nonprofit.
Three Free Software Applications You Can't Live Without
Secure Computing: The Key Ingredients
Removing Spyware, Viruses, and Other Malware from Windows
Backing Up Your Data
Firewalls and You
Anti-Spyware Toolkit

Online Fundraising

Checklist

How do online donations fit into your overall strategy? Is it the only way you will fundraise or part of a bigger picture?
What kind of volume do you expect?
Do you want to set up a merchant account?
How tightly does it need to integrate with your site?
How are you going to use the donation data?

Tools

Other Resources/Articles

Idealware article
Techsoup: Selecting an Online Donation Tool: Part 1 and Part 2 .
Online Donation Software Engines

Database Tools & Event Management/Registration

How to choose an information management tool

Define Your Needs: Write out how you do the work you do. Then fill in the places where you gather and use information
Prioritize Needs: What part(s) of information management are the most painful, have the fewest decent workarounds? Do these first.
Determine Your Capacity: Ballpark $$ and human resources to make sure you do not break the bank
Talk to Colleagues: How have they solved the problems you faced? What research have they done?
Evaluate Solutions: Start with prebuilt systems, if nothing meets your needs then consider customization?

How are databases delivered?

Prebuilt: Ready to use systems: more finished, less configurable (time to deployment short, cost low, fit imperfect)
Frameworks: Almost ready to use: configure/customize on core features to finish (time to deployment medium, cost medium, fit better)
Custom: Not ready to use: you define it, they build it (time to deployment long, cost high, fit best)

Tools

CRM "Frameworks":

Salesforce.com: Focuses on tracking people, their roles and interactions with your organization. 10 Licenses free for qualified 501c3 nonprofits. Lots of configurable extras. Larger, more complex system, not a simple contact manager.
FreeCRM.com: Free versions and fee versions. A clunkier version of Salesforce, but you can get going right away.
Metrix/ebase : Free desktop software with limited support, very configurable but can be time consuming to learn and use effectively.

Donor Systems:

Giftworks : $199/license. Really easy to use system for donor management, desktop/PC only.
eTapestry : Online donor management system. Free for the first 500 contacts, then prices go up from there. Supports the "Benevon" model of fundraising. Just purchased by Blackbaud, look for changes over the next year. Great for folks with smaller donor lists, may be too expensive for folks with larger lists.

Registration Systems:

Other Resources/Articles

A Few Good RSVP Tools

CMS/Web Presence tools

Checklist

What do you need your site for? An online brochure? Building Community? Advocacy? Know the purpose of your site and choose features that support this purpose.
Make a list of your FEATURE needs, and then prioritize. Remember that you can not have it all!
Make a list of your ADMINISTRATIVE needs, and the prioritize. Remember that you can not have it all!
Have a budget. Know what it is, and know that some features may not be available for your budget.
How will you staff your site? Is it a volunteer? A board member? The whole staff? One staff person? Who, how, and how often you need to update your site needs to be taken into consideration.

CMS

Bryght :
Joomla
Drupal
Plone : Recommend nonprofits first check out One Northwest Resources on Plone here .
CivicSpace on Demand

BLOGS

Resources

OpenSourceCMS.com
A few good resources for managing simple sites: http://www.idealware.org/articles/fgt_cms_simple_sites.php
Getting Started with Blogging Software: http://www.idealware.org/blogging_software/

Email/Listserv/Web hosting

Email Checklist

Web Design

Depends on expertise
Custom Design - Nonprofit recommendations
DOCUMENT EVERYTHING - volunteer web designers leave and you can't update the site
Who updates site?
Maintainable

Web hosting tools

Marketing

Newsletters: Check out Idealware's article
GroupMail : Non-profit and academic discount available as of summer 2007.

Listservs/eNewsletters

Advertising

Google : Advertising donation program for non-profits in the US and internationally.

Social Networking Sites

Online Printers

Other Resources/Articles

ISPs

Internet Service Providers

ISP Checklist

Bandwidth guaranteed
Static IPs
Domain names
Configure router
Allow protocols (file sharing, etc.)
Telephone support
Web-based administration

~~DSL High Speed Internet Access~~ ~~T1 Internet Service~~ ~~Satellite Internet~~ ~~VoIP Phone Service~~ ~~PBX Phone Systems~~ ~~MPLS Network Service Providers~~

Tools

Pair.com - web hosting
laughing squid - email and web host
electricembers.com - listserv host
thinkhost.com - Green web hosting
sonic.net - DSL, "Business T"

Additional Resources

Bandwidth Meter speed test: http://reviews.cnet.com/7004-7254_7-0.html
Broadband Internet Access Service Providers http://www.broadbandinfo.com/
~~High Speed Internet Access -~~ ~~http://www.high-speed-internet-access.net~~ Choosing the Best Internet Connection
Non Profit ISP help ~~iPod Repair Guide~~

Web Hosting

"Recommended web hosting companies" thread on TechSoup Forums

Network

Brief Description

Consider WiFi instead of wiring
Find wiring installers who work with nonprofits, especially private contractors
Get permission from landlord before wiring
Security & firewall
Allow staff to access the server remotely with a Virtual Private Network (VPN)

Tools

Healthy & Secure Computing
Techfinder

Articles/Toolkits

Networks 101: An Introduction to Server Applications

Forums/Discussion Boards

Online wiring resource thread on TechSoup Forums

Hardware

Checklist

Needs assessment - graphics? Office?
Double the standard RAM
Remove unwanted bloatware
Warranty - worth it?
Replacement in 3-4 years
Flat-screen = Green
Printers - networked; Laser; Inkjet $$$$ for ink
Backups

Used or reconditioned sources

Craigslist - recent equipment, good for years
Goodwill
TechSoup Stock
Apple NPO discount - Mac Minis for $550

Additional Resources

Project/Staff/Board (Collaboration) Management

Basecamp
Google Docs/Calendar
WebEx
GoToMeeting
Vyew

Telecommunications

skype
voip
ReadyTalk on TSS
Instant Messaging
Instant messaging: yahoo/AIM/GAIM

~~PC Satellite TV~~
http://www.freeconference.com/

Staffing & Support

Checklist

What's the right way to staff your project? Is it a one-time project suitable for a volunteer or a long-term commitment hat might be better for a staff person or consultant?
What skills do you need? How will you evaluate people's skills?
Have you clearly articulated what you think you need?
Be prepared to hear from a volunteer, consultant, or staffer that your project may need to change.
Who will manage the volunteer, consultant, or staffer?
Document deliverables, timelines and budgets to all involved.

Resources (consultants)
techunderground.org
techfinder.org
Craigslist
dealist.org
NTEN Affinity Groups ( http://groups.nten.org)

Resources (staff)

Craigslist
Idealist.org
NTEN Affinity Groups ( http://groups.nten.org)

Resources (volunteers)

Taproot
VolunteerMatch
Craigslist
Idealist.org
NTEN Affinity Groups ( http://groups.nten.org)

Resources (general)

NTEN IT Staffing Report: http://www.nten.org/research/itstaffing

Training

Goodwill Free Learning
Compasspoint
Infopeople
Webjunction
NTEN Webinars
NTEN Member Discounts
TechSoup Stock

GIS/Mapping

Checklist

Define the problem to address through GIS/Mapping
Identify the data required to inform the problem, and whether/how you can get it
Depth of Analysis (Mapping vs GIS): Do you need to visualize this data only, or analyze it, or both?
Review available mapping and GIS software solutions against your requirements and infrastructure

Tools

Resources

Why GIS? Intro to what it is, why it is useful. http://maps2.humaninet.org/why-gis/
Community Mapping Best Practices and Software Listings: http://www.policylink.org/Research/Mapping/default.html

Summary of Resources

CLbootcamp07

132.60.240.80 — Fri, 03 Oct 2008 16:52:16 GMT

Software Products

TechSoup Stock

Microsoft Office 2007 ($20)
Microsoft Project Standard 2007 ($24)
Adobe CS3 - $160 (includes Dreamweaver)
QuickBooks 2006 $18
Filemaker Pro - $175/copy (Ease of use, cross-platform, Instant Web Publisher)

Online Free Applications

Google Apps - Shared documents, Calendar, Spreadsheets, Gmail, Groups
Yahoo - Instant Messenger, Mail, Calendar, Groups
Others: Glide, iNetWord, ThinkFree, Zoho

Shareware & Freeware

VersionTracker (Software downloads, reviews and updates for all types of commercial software, shareware and freeware for Macintosh, Windows and Palm.)
ZDNet

Surveying

Survey Monkey - $175/year unlimited for NPOs, limited free access
Zoomerang - $360/year NPO
ReForm/Anyware - WiFi Palm-based, web designer, from $125/month

Other Resources/Articles:

Free Software, Handpicked for Nonprofits (this is actually a reprint of the NGO-in-a-Box, from Tactical Technology Collective and iCommons).
Creating an Open-Source Desktop (this discusses open-source software that falls under a variety of categories beyond Office Productivity).
Ten Free Browser Add-Ons to Help Nonprofits Work Faster (a list of good Firefox Add-Ons).
Eight Tools to Keep Your Team Connected (free software for working long-distance; not sure if this is the right category).
Microsoft Office vs. OpenOffice.org (Idealware does a head-to-head comparison of the two office suites)
Three Free Software Applications You Can't Live Without (three packages that won't cost a dime)
An Introduction to Web Apps (The basics of online software)
Shared Wisdom: Top-Notch Free Software (Nonprofit techies share their essential freeware applications)
Overcome the Challenges of Distance with Free Online Tools (Manage your nonprofit's international projects using these handy resources)

Security

Description

Precautions to keep your hardware, software and data safe and secure.

Checklist

firewalls
data backups
anti-virus/spam/malware
physical security

Tools

( Free downloads and other donated products on TechSoup)

Ad-Aware 2007 (removes adware and spyware, free)
Spybot Search & Destroy (detects and removes adware and malware, checks your system against a comprehensive database of adware and other system invaders, cleans program and Web-usage tracks, and offers an online-update feature, free)
Norton Personal Firewall 2006 hides a computer from hackers, detects and blocks malicious intrusions, and prevents attacks through security holes)
Norton 360 (protects against online threats and includes tools for tuning up systems and backing up data)

Other Resources/Articles

Healthy & Secure Computing Guide : this workbook has steps and recommendations for creating a healthy and secure computing environment and establishing a sound technology infrastructure at your nonprofit.
Three Free Software Applications You Can't Live Without
Secure Computing: The Key Ingredients
Removing Spyware, Viruses, and Other Malware from Windows
Backing Up Your Data
Firewalls and You
Anti-Spyware Toolkit

Online Fundraising

Checklist

How do online donations fit into your overall strategy? Is it the only way you will fundraise or part of a bigger picture?
What kind of volume do you expect?
Do you want to set up a merchant account?
How tightly does it need to integrate with your site?
How are you going to use the donation data?

Tools

Other Resources/Articles

Idealware article
Techsoup: Selecting an Online Donation Tool: Part 1 and Part 2 .
Online Donation Software Engines

Database Tools & Event Management/Registration

How to choose an information management tool

Define Your Needs: Write out how you do the work you do. Then fill in the places where you gather and use information
Prioritize Needs: What part(s) of information management are the most painful, have the fewest decent workarounds? Do these first.
Determine Your Capacity: Ballpark $$ and human resources to make sure you do not break the bank
Talk to Colleagues: How have they solved the problems you faced? What research have they done?
Evaluate Solutions: Start with prebuilt systems, if nothing meets your needs then consider customization?

How are databases delivered?

Prebuilt: Ready to use systems: more finished, less configurable (time to deployment short, cost low, fit imperfect)
Frameworks: Almost ready to use: configure/customize on core features to finish (time to deployment medium, cost medium, fit better)
Custom: Not ready to use: you define it, they build it (time to deployment long, cost high, fit best)

Tools

CRM "Frameworks":

Salesforce.com: Focuses on tracking people, their roles and interactions with your organization. 10 Licenses free for qualified 501c3 nonprofits. Lots of configurable extras. Larger, more complex system, not a simple contact manager.
FreeCRM.com: Free versions and fee versions. A clunkier version of Salesforce, but you can get going right away.
Metrix/ebase : Free desktop software with limited support, very configurable but can be time consuming to learn and use effectively.

Donor Systems:

Giftworks : $199/license. Really easy to use system for donor management, desktop/PC only.
eTapestry : Online donor management system. Free for the first 500 contacts, then prices go up from there. Supports the "Benevon" model of fundraising. Just purchased by Blackbaud, look for changes over the next year. Great for folks with smaller donor lists, may be too expensive for folks with larger lists.

Registration Systems:

Other Resources/Articles

A Few Good RSVP Tools

CMS/Web Presence tools

Checklist

What do you need your site for? An online brochure? Building Community? Advocacy? Know the purpose of your site and choose features that support this purpose.
Make a list of your FEATURE needs, and then prioritize. Remember that you can not have it all!
Make a list of your ADMINISTRATIVE needs, and the prioritize. Remember that you can not have it all!
Have a budget. Know what it is, and know that some features may not be available for your budget.
How will you staff your site? Is it a volunteer? A board member? The whole staff? One staff person? Who, how, and how often you need to update your site needs to be taken into consideration.

CMS

Bryght :
Joomla
Drupal
Plone : Recommend nonprofits first check out One Northwest Resources on Plone here .
CivicSpace on Demand

BLOGS

Resources

OpenSourceCMS.com
A few good resources for managing simple sites: http://www.idealware.org/articles/fgt_cms_simple_sites.php
Getting Started with Blogging Software: http://www.idealware.org/blogging_software/

Email/Listserv/Web hosting

Email Checklist

Web Design

Depends on expertise
Custom Design - Nonprofit recommendations
DOCUMENT EVERYTHING - volunteer web designers leave and you can't update the site
Who updates site?
Maintainable

Web hosting tools

Marketing

Newsletters: Check out Idealware's article
GroupMail : Non-profit and academic discount available as of summer 2007.

Listservs/eNewsletters

Advertising

Google : Advertising donation program for non-profits in the US and internationally.

Social Networking Sites

Online Printers

Other Resources/Articles

ISPs

Internet Service Providers

ISP Checklist

Bandwidth guaranteed
Static IPs
Domain names
Configure router
Allow protocols (file sharing, etc.)
Telephone support
Web-based administration

DSL High Speed Internet Access
T1 Internet Service
Satellite Internet
VoIP Phone Service
PBX Phone Systems
MPLS Network Service Providers

Tools

Pair.com - web hosting
laughing squid - email and web host
electricembers.com - listserv host
thinkhost.com - Green web hosting
sonic.net - DSL, "Business T"

Additional Resources

Bandwidth Meter speed test: http://reviews.cnet.com/7004-7254_7-0.html
Broadband Internet Access Service Providers http://www.broadbandinfo.com/
High Speed Internet Access - http://www.high-speed-internet-access.net
Choosing the Best Internet Connection
Non Profit ISP help
iPod Repair Guide

Web Hosting

"Recommended web hosting companies" thread on TechSoup Forums

Network

Brief Description

Consider WiFi instead of wiring
Find wiring installers who work with nonprofits, especially private contractors
Get permission from landlord before wiring
Security & firewall
Allow staff to access the server remotely with a Virtual Private Network (VPN)

Tools

Healthy & Secure Computing
Techfinder

Articles/Toolkits

Networks 101: An Introduction to Server Applications

Forums/Discussion Boards

Online wiring resource thread on TechSoup Forums

Hardware

Checklist

Needs assessment - graphics? Office?
Double the standard RAM
Remove unwanted bloatware
Warranty - worth it?
Replacement in 3-4 years
Flat-screen = Green
Printers - networked; Laser; Inkjet $$$$ for ink
Backups

Used or reconditioned sources

Craigslist - recent equipment, good for years
Goodwill
TechSoup Stock
Apple NPO discount - Mac Minis for $550

Additional Resources

Project/Staff/Board (Collaboration) Management

Basecamp
Google Docs/Calendar
WebEx
GoToMeeting
Vyew

Telecommunications

skype
voip
ReadyTalk on TSS
Instant Messaging
Instant messaging: yahoo/AIM/GAIM

PC Satellite TV

http://www.freeconference.com/

Staffing & Support

Checklist

What's the right way to staff your project? Is it a one-time project suitable for a volunteer or a long-term commitment hat might be better for a staff person or consultant?
What skills do you need? How will you evaluate people's skills?
Have you clearly articulated what you think you need?
Be prepared to hear from a volunteer, consultant, or staffer that your project may need to change.
Who will manage the volunteer, consultant, or staffer?
Document deliverables, timelines and budgets to all involved.

Resources (consultants)
techunderground.org
techfinder.org
Craigslist
dealist.org
NTEN Affinity Groups ( http://groups.nten.org)

Resources (staff)

Craigslist
Idealist.org
NTEN Affinity Groups ( http://groups.nten.org)

Resources (volunteers)

Taproot
VolunteerMatch
Craigslist
Idealist.org
NTEN Affinity Groups ( http://groups.nten.org)

Resources (general)

NTEN IT Staffing Report: http://www.nten.org/research/itstaffing

Training

Goodwill Free Learning
Compasspoint
Infopeople
Webjunction
NTEN Webinars
NTEN Member Discounts
TechSoup Stock

GIS/Mapping

Checklist

Define the problem to address through GIS/Mapping
Identify the data required to inform the problem, and whether/how you can get it
Depth of Analysis (Mapping vs GIS): Do you need to visualize this data only, or analyze it, or both?
Review available mapping and GIS software solutions against your requirements and infrastructure

Tools

Resources

Why GIS? Intro to what it is, why it is useful. http://maps2.humaninet.org/why-gis/
Community Mapping Best Practices and Software Listings: http://www.policylink.org/Research/Mapping/default.html

Summary of Resources

CLbootcamp07

132.60.240.80 — Fri, 03 Oct 2008 16:40:56 GMT

Software Products

TechSoup Stock

Microsoft Office 2007 ($20)
Microsoft Project Standard 2007 ($24)
Adobe CS3 - $160 (includes Dreamweaver)
QuickBooks 2006 $18
Filemaker Pro - $175/copy (Ease of use, cross-platform, Instant Web Publisher)

Online Free Applications

Google Apps - Shared documents, Calendar, Spreadsheets, Gmail, Groups
Yahoo - Instant Messenger, Mail, Calendar, Groups
Others: Glide, iNetWord, ThinkFree, Zoho

Shareware & Freeware

VersionTracker (Software downloads, reviews and updates for all types of commercial software, shareware and freeware for Macintosh, Windows and Palm.)
ZDNet

Surveying

Survey Monkey - $175/year unlimited for NPOs, limited free access
Zoomerang - $360/year NPO
ReForm/Anyware - WiFi Palm-based, web designer, from $125/month

Other Resources/Articles:

Free Software, Handpicked for Nonprofits (this is actually a reprint of the NGO-in-a-Box, from Tactical Technology Collective and iCommons).
Creating an Open-Source Desktop (this discusses open-source software that falls under a variety of categories beyond Office Productivity).
Ten Free Browser Add-Ons to Help Nonprofits Work Faster (a list of good Firefox Add-Ons).
Eight Tools to Keep Your Team Connected (free software for working long-distance; not sure if this is the right category).
Microsoft Office vs. OpenOffice.org (Idealware does a head-to-head comparison of the two office suites)
Three Free Software Applications You Can't Live Without (three packages that won't cost a dime)
An Introduction to Web Apps (The basics of online software)
Shared Wisdom: Top-Notch Free Software (Nonprofit techies share their essential freeware applications)
Overcome the Challenges of Distance with Free Online Tools (Manage your nonprofit's international projects using these handy resources)

Security

Description

Precautions to keep your hardware, software and data safe and secure.

Checklist

firewalls
data backups
anti-virus/spam/malware
physical security

Tools

( Free downloads and other donated products on TechSoup)

Ad-Aware 2007 (removes adware and spyware, free)
Spybot Search & Destroy (detects and removes adware and malware, checks your system against a comprehensive database of adware and other system invaders, cleans program and Web-usage tracks, and offers an online-update feature, free)
Norton Personal Firewall 2006 hides a computer from hackers, detects and blocks malicious intrusions, and prevents attacks through security holes)
Norton 360 (protects against online threats and includes tools for tuning up systems and backing up data)

Other Resources/Articles

Healthy & Secure Computing Guide : this workbook has steps and recommendations for creating a healthy and secure computing environment and establishing a sound technology infrastructure at your nonprofit.
Three Free Software Applications You Can't Live Without
Secure Computing: The Key Ingredients
Removing Spyware, Viruses, and Other Malware from Windows
Backing Up Your Data
Firewalls and You
Anti-Spyware Toolkit

Online Fundraising

Checklist

How do online donations fit into your overall strategy? Is it the only way you will fundraise or part of a bigger picture?
What kind of volume do you expect?
Do you want to set up a merchant account?
How tightly does it need to integrate with your site?
How are you going to use the donation data?

Tools

Other Resources/Articles

Idealware article
Techsoup: Selecting an Online Donation Tool: Part 1 and Part 2 .
Online Donation Software Engines

Database Tools & Event Management/Registration

How to choose an information management tool

Define Your Needs: Write out how you do the work you do. Then fill in the places where you gather and use information
Prioritize Needs: What part(s) of information management are the most painful, have the fewest decent workarounds? Do these first.
Determine Your Capacity: Ballpark $$ and human resources to make sure you do not break the bank
Talk to Colleagues: How have they solved the problems you faced? What research have they done?
Evaluate Solutions: Start with prebuilt systems, if nothing meets your needs then consider customization?

How are databases delivered?

Prebuilt: Ready to use systems: more finished, less configurable (time to deployment short, cost low, fit imperfect)
Frameworks: Almost ready to use: configure/customize on core features to finish (time to deployment medium, cost medium, fit better)
Custom: Not ready to use: you define it, they build it (time to deployment long, cost high, fit best)

Tools

CRM "Frameworks":

Salesforce.com: Focuses on tracking people, their roles and interactions with your organization. 10 Licenses free for qualified 501c3 nonprofits. Lots of configurable extras. Larger, more complex system, not a simple contact manager.
FreeCRM.com: Free versions and fee versions. A clunkier version of Salesforce, but you can get going right away.
Metrix/ebase : Free desktop software with limited support, very configurable but can be time consuming to learn and use effectively.

Donor Systems:

Giftworks : $199/license. Really easy to use system for donor management, desktop/PC only.
eTapestry : Online donor management system. Free for the first 500 contacts, then prices go up from there. Supports the "Benevon" model of fundraising. Just purchased by Blackbaud, look for changes over the next year. Great for folks with smaller donor lists, may be too expensive for folks with larger lists.

Registration Systems:

Other Resources/Articles

A Few Good RSVP Tools

CMS/Web Presence tools

Checklist

What do you need your site for? An online brochure? Building Community? Advocacy? Know the purpose of your site and choose features that support this purpose.
Make a list of your FEATURE needs, and then prioritize. Remember that you can not have it all!
Make a list of your ADMINISTRATIVE needs, and the prioritize. Remember that you can not have it all!
Have a budget. Know what it is, and know that some features may not be available for your budget.
How will you staff your site? Is it a volunteer? A board member? The whole staff? One staff person? Who, how, and how often you need to update your site needs to be taken into consideration.

CMS

Bryght :
Joomla
Drupal
Plone : Recommend nonprofits first check out One Northwest Resources on Plone here .
CivicSpace on Demand

BLOGS

Resources

OpenSourceCMS.com
A few good resources for managing simple sites: http://www.idealware.org/articles/fgt_cms_simple_sites.php
Getting Started with Blogging Software: http://www.idealware.org/blogging_software/

Email/Listserv/Web hosting

Email Checklist

Web Design

Depends on expertise
Custom Design - Nonprofit recommendations
DOCUMENT EVERYTHING - volunteer web designers leave and you can't update the site
Who updates site?
Maintainable

Web hosting tools

Marketing

Newsletters: Check out Idealware's article
GroupMail : Non-profit and academic discount available as of summer 2007.

Listservs/eNewsletters

Advertising

Google : Advertising donation program for non-profits in the US and internationally.

Social Networking Sites

Online Printers

Other Resources/Articles

ISPs

Internet Service Providers

ISP Checklist

Bandwidth guaranteed
Static IPs
Domain names
Configure router
Allow protocols (file sharing, etc.)
Telephone support
Web-based administration

DSL High Speed Internet Access
T1 Internet Service
Satellite Internet
VoIP Phone Service
PBX Phone Systems
MPLS Network Service Providers

Tools

Pair.com - web hosting
laughing squid - email and web host
electricembers.com - listserv host
thinkhost.com - Green web hosting
sonic.net - DSL, "Business T"

Additional Resources

Bandwidth Meter speed test: http://reviews.cnet.com/7004-7254_7-0.html
Broadband Internet Access Service Providers http://www.broadbandinfo.com/
High Speed Internet Access http://www.high-speed-internet-access.net
Choosing the Best Internet Connection
Non Profit ISP help

Web Hosting

"Recommended web hosting companies" thread on TechSoup Forums

Network

Brief Description

Consider WiFi instead of wiring
Find wiring installers who work with nonprofits, especially private contractors
Get permission from landlord before wiring
Security & firewall
Allow staff to access the server remotely with a Virtual Private Network (VPN)

Tools

Healthy & Secure Computing
Techfinder

Articles/Toolkits

Networks 101: An Introduction to Server Applications

Forums/Discussion Boards

Online wiring resource thread on TechSoup Forums

Hardware

Checklist

Needs assessment - graphics? Office?
Double the standard RAM
Remove unwanted bloatware
Warranty - worth it?
Replacement in 3-4 years
Flat-screen = Green
Printers - networked; Laser; Inkjet $$$$ for ink
Backups

Used or reconditioned sources

Craigslist - recent equipment, good for years
Goodwill
TechSoup Stock
Apple NPO discount - Mac Minis for $550

Additional Resources

Project/Staff/Board (Collaboration) Management

Basecamp
Google Docs/Calendar
WebEx
GoToMeeting
Vyew

Telecommunications

skype
voip
ReadyTalk on TSS
Instant Messaging
Instant messaging: yahoo/AIM/GAIM

http://www.freeconference.com/

Staffing & Support

Checklist

What's the right way to staff your project? Is it a one-time project suitable for a volunteer or a long-term commitment hat might be better for a staff person or consultant?
What skills do you need? How will you evaluate people's skills?
Have you clearly articulated what you think you need?
Be prepared to hear from a volunteer, consultant, or staffer that your project may need to change.
Who will manage the volunteer, consultant, or staffer?
Document deliverables, timelines and budgets to all involved.

Resources (consultants)
techunderground.org
techfinder.org
Craigslist
dealist.org
NTEN Affinity Groups ( http://groups.nten.org)

Resources (staff)

Craigslist
Idealist.org
NTEN Affinity Groups ( http://groups.nten.org)

Resources (volunteers)

Taproot
VolunteerMatch
Craigslist
Idealist.org
NTEN Affinity Groups ( http://groups.nten.org)

Resources (general)

NTEN IT Staffing Report: http://www.nten.org/research/itstaffing

Training

Goodwill Free Learning
Compasspoint
Infopeople
Webjunction
NTEN Webinars
NTEN Member Discounts
TechSoup Stock

GIS/Mapping

Checklist

Define the problem to address through GIS/Mapping
Identify the data required to inform the problem, and whether/how you can get it
Depth of Analysis (Mapping vs GIS): Do you need to visualize this data only, or analyze it, or both?
Review available mapping and GIS software solutions against your requirements and infrastructure

Tools

Resources

Why GIS? Intro to what it is, why it is useful. http://maps2.humaninet.org/why-gis/
Community Mapping Best Practices and Software Listings: http://www.policylink.org/Research/Mapping/default.html

Summary of Resources

CLbootcamp07

132.60.240.80 — Fri, 03 Oct 2008 16:20:09 GMT

Software Products

TechSoup Stock

Microsoft Office 2007 ($20)
Microsoft Project Standard 2007 ($24)
Adobe CS3 - $160 (includes Dreamweaver)
QuickBooks 2006 $18
Filemaker Pro - $175/copy (Ease of use, cross-platform, Instant Web Publisher)

Online Free Applications

Google Apps - Shared documents, Calendar, Spreadsheets, Gmail, Groups
Yahoo - Instant Messenger, Mail, Calendar, Groups
Others: Glide, iNetWord, ThinkFree, Zoho

Shareware & Freeware

VersionTracker (Software downloads, reviews and updates for all types of commercial software, shareware and freeware for Macintosh, Windows and Palm.)
ZDNet

Surveying

Survey Monkey - $175/year unlimited for NPOs, limited free access
Zoomerang - $360/year NPO
ReForm/Anyware - WiFi Palm-based, web designer, from $125/month

Other Resources/Articles:

Free Software, Handpicked for Nonprofits (this is actually a reprint of the NGO-in-a-Box, from Tactical Technology Collective and iCommons).
Creating an Open-Source Desktop (this discusses open-source software that falls under a variety of categories beyond Office Productivity).
Ten Free Browser Add-Ons to Help Nonprofits Work Faster (a list of good Firefox Add-Ons).
Eight Tools to Keep Your Team Connected (free software for working long-distance; not sure if this is the right category).
Microsoft Office vs. OpenOffice.org (Idealware does a head-to-head comparison of the two office suites)
Three Free Software Applications You Can't Live Without (three packages that won't cost a dime)
An Introduction to Web Apps (The basics of online software)
Shared Wisdom: Top-Notch Free Software (Nonprofit techies share their essential freeware applications)
Overcome the Challenges of Distance with Free Online Tools (Manage your nonprofit's international projects using these handy resources)

Security

Description

Precautions to keep your hardware, software and data safe and secure.

Checklist

firewalls
data backups
anti-virus/spam/malware
physical security

Tools

( Free downloads and other donated products on TechSoup)

Ad-Aware 2007 (removes adware and spyware, free)
Spybot Search & Destroy (detects and removes adware and malware, checks your system against a comprehensive database of adware and other system invaders, cleans program and Web-usage tracks, and offers an online-update feature, free)
Norton Personal Firewall 2006 hides a computer from hackers, detects and blocks malicious intrusions, and prevents attacks through security holes)
Norton 360 (protects against online threats and includes tools for tuning up systems and backing up data)

Other Resources/Articles

Healthy & Secure Computing Guide : this workbook has steps and recommendations for creating a healthy and secure computing environment and establishing a sound technology infrastructure at your nonprofit.
Three Free Software Applications You Can't Live Without
Secure Computing: The Key Ingredients
Removing Spyware, Viruses, and Other Malware from Windows
Backing Up Your Data
Firewalls and You
Anti-Spyware Toolkit

Online Fundraising

Checklist

How do online donations fit into your overall strategy? Is it the only way you will fundraise or part of a bigger picture?
What kind of volume do you expect?
Do you want to set up a merchant account?
How tightly does it need to integrate with your site?
How are you going to use the donation data?

Tools

Other Resources/Articles

Idealware article
Techsoup: Selecting an Online Donation Tool: Part 1 and Part 2 .
Online Donation Software Engines

Database Tools & Event Management/Registration

How to choose an information management tool

Define Your Needs: Write out how you do the work you do. Then fill in the places where you gather and use information
Prioritize Needs: What part(s) of information management are the most painful, have the fewest decent workarounds? Do these first.
Determine Your Capacity: Ballpark $$ and human resources to make sure you do not break the bank
Talk to Colleagues: How have they solved the problems you faced? What research have they done?
Evaluate Solutions: Start with prebuilt systems, if nothing meets your needs then consider customization?

How are databases delivered?

Prebuilt: Ready to use systems: more finished, less configurable (time to deployment short, cost low, fit imperfect)
Frameworks: Almost ready to use: configure/customize on core features to finish (time to deployment medium, cost medium, fit better)
Custom: Not ready to use: you define it, they build it (time to deployment long, cost high, fit best)

Tools

CRM "Frameworks":

Salesforce.com: Focuses on tracking people, their roles and interactions with your organization. 10 Licenses free for qualified 501c3 nonprofits. Lots of configurable extras. Larger, more complex system, not a simple contact manager.
FreeCRM.com: Free versions and fee versions. A clunkier version of Salesforce, but you can get going right away.
Metrix/ebase : Free desktop software with limited support, very configurable but can be time consuming to learn and use effectively.

Donor Systems:

Giftworks : $199/license. Really easy to use system for donor management, desktop/PC only.
eTapestry : Online donor management system. Free for the first 500 contacts, then prices go up from there. Supports the "Benevon" model of fundraising. Just purchased by Blackbaud, look for changes over the next year. Great for folks with smaller donor lists, may be too expensive for folks with larger lists.

Registration Systems:

Other Resources/Articles

A Few Good RSVP Tools

CMS/Web Presence tools

Checklist

What do you need your site for? An online brochure? Building Community? Advocacy? Know the purpose of your site and choose features that support this purpose.
Make a list of your FEATURE needs, and then prioritize. Remember that you can not have it all!
Make a list of your ADMINISTRATIVE needs, and the prioritize. Remember that you can not have it all!
Have a budget. Know what it is, and know that some features may not be available for your budget.
How will you staff your site? Is it a volunteer? A board member? The whole staff? One staff person? Who, how, and how often you need to update your site needs to be taken into consideration.

CMS

Bryght :
Joomla
Drupal
Plone : Recommend nonprofits first check out One Northwest Resources on Plone here .
CivicSpace on Demand

BLOGS

Resources

OpenSourceCMS.com
A few good resources for managing simple sites: http://www.idealware.org/articles/fgt_cms_simple_sites.php
Getting Started with Blogging Software: http://www.idealware.org/blogging_software/

Email/Listserv/Web hosting

Email Checklist

Web Design

Depends on expertise
Custom Design - Nonprofit recommendations
DOCUMENT EVERYTHING - volunteer web designers leave and you can't update the site
Who updates site?
Maintainable

Web hosting tools

Marketing

Newsletters: Check out Idealware's article
GroupMail : Non-profit and academic discount available as of summer 2007.

Listservs/eNewsletters

Advertising

Google : Advertising donation program for non-profits in the US and internationally.

Social Networking Sites

Online Printers

Other Resources/Articles

ISPs

Internet Service Providers

ISP Checklist

Bandwidth guaranteed
Static IPs
Domain names
Configure router
Allow protocols (file sharing, etc.)
Telephone support
Web-based administration

Tools

Pair.com - web hosting
laughing squid - email and web host
electricembers.com - listserv host
thinkhost.com - Green web hosting
sonic.net - DSL, "Business T"

Additional Resources

Bandwidth Meter speed test: http://reviews.cnet.com/7004-7254_7-0.html
Broadband Internet Access Service Providers http://www.broadbandinfo.com/
High Speed Internet Access http://www.high-speed-internet-access.net
Choosing the Best Internet Connection
Non Profit ISP help

Web Hosting

"Recommended web hosting companies" thread on TechSoup Forums

Network

Brief Description

Consider WiFi instead of wiring
Find wiring installers who work with nonprofits, especially private contractors
Get permission from landlord before wiring
Security & firewall
Allow staff to access the server remotely with a Virtual Private Network (VPN)

Tools

Healthy & Secure Computing
Techfinder

Articles/Toolkits

Networks 101: An Introduction to Server Applications

Forums/Discussion Boards

Online wiring resource thread on TechSoup Forums

Hardware

Checklist

Needs assessment - graphics? Office?
Double the standard RAM
Remove unwanted bloatware
Warranty - worth it?
Replacement in 3-4 years
Flat-screen = Green
Printers - networked; Laser; Inkjet $$$$ for ink
Backups

Used or reconditioned sources

Craigslist - recent equipment, good for years
Goodwill
TechSoup Stock
Apple NPO discount - Mac Minis for $550

Additional Resources

Project/Staff/Board (Collaboration) Management

Basecamp
Google Docs/Calendar
WebEx
GoToMeeting
Vyew

Telecommunications

skype
voip
ReadyTalk on TSS
Instant Messaging
Instant messaging: yahoo/AIM/GAIM

http://www.freeconference.com/

Staffing & Support

Checklist

What's the right way to staff your project? Is it a one-time project suitable for a volunteer or a long-term commitment hat might be better for a staff person or consultant?
What skills do you need? How will you evaluate people's skills?
Have you clearly articulated what you think you need?
Be prepared to hear from a volunteer, consultant, or staffer that your project may need to change.
Who will manage the volunteer, consultant, or staffer?
Document deliverables, timelines and budgets to all involved.

Resources (consultants)
techunderground.org
techfinder.org
Craigslist
dealist.org
NTEN Affinity Groups ( http://groups.nten.org)

Resources (staff)

Craigslist
Idealist.org
NTEN Affinity Groups ( http://groups.nten.org)

Resources (volunteers)

Taproot
VolunteerMatch
Craigslist
Idealist.org
NTEN Affinity Groups ( http://groups.nten.org)

Resources (general)

NTEN IT Staffing Report: http://www.nten.org/research/itstaffing

Training

Goodwill Free Learning
Compasspoint
Infopeople
Webjunction
NTEN Webinars
NTEN Member Discounts
TechSoup Stock

GIS/Mapping

Checklist

Define the problem to address through GIS/Mapping
Identify the data required to inform the problem, and whether/how you can get it
Depth of Analysis (Mapping vs GIS): Do you need to visualize this data only, or analyze it, or both?
Review available mapping and GIS software solutions against your requirements and infrastructure

Tools

Resources

Why GIS? Intro to what it is, why it is useful. http://maps2.humaninet.org/why-gis/
Community Mapping Best Practices and Software Listings: http://www.policylink.org/Research/Mapping/default.html

Summary of Resources

training

87.194.130.50 — Wed, 01 Oct 2008 09:49:37 GMT

Training Resources for HSC

Helpful Guides
Healthy & Secure Computing Manual
Managing Tech Volunteers Manual

Technology Information for Nonprofits
TechSoup Forums
TechSoup Learning Center
N-TEN
Idealware
NPower
ONE/Northwest
Social Source Commons

Inventory Tools
Belarc
TechAtlas

Apple Mac Resources
www.apple.com/support
www.db.tidbits.com
www.macfixit.com
www.securemac.com
www.osxfaq.com
www.macworld.com
www.maclife.com

Working with Volunteers
Craigslist
Volunteer Center
Volunteer Match
Idealist

Troubleshooting Guides
Apple’s “Isolating issues” guide (Mac-focused, but has some great generally applicable steps too)
ExtremeTech’s “Troubleshooting 101”

Help Desk Applications
Spiceworks
TechAtlas
Numera Track-It!

Data Backup Software/Services
Best Backup
Symantec Backup Exec
EMC Retrospect
www.mozy.com
www.ibackup.com
www.back2go.com
www.ironmountain.com/digital
backuppc.sourceforge.net
www.flashbackup.com
www.backupdirect.net
www.ampheon.co.uk/ob/default.asp

Computer Recycling
Alameda County Computer Resource Center
Computer Recycling Center
Green Citizen
Northern California Goodwill
Searchable listings for responsibly disposing of hardware
Computer Takeback Campaign’s List of responsible recyclers

Low Cost Technology Resources
TechSoup Stock
TechSoup’s RCI Program
PC Connection
Gifts in Kind
1 Computer Bargains
Microsoft Charity Resellers

Bay Area Resources for Low Cost/Free Equipment
Freecycle
Craigslist
Goodwill

Notes/Resources from October 9 Training
Gliffy
Treesize
CDW - Computer Discount Warehouse
Crucial Memory
Disk Inventory X (for Macs)

Public Labs

64.142.30.8 — Thu, 17 Apr 2008 20:20:53 GMT

| Tips and Public Lab Management | Case Studies | Discounted Software | Free Software | Participate in the TechSoup Forums | Addtional Resources

This page is adapted from our TechSoup Public Labs Toolkit .
Feel free to make changes or submit additional content to share!
You can edit this page by clicking the "Edit This Page" button on the top.

Nonprofits with Public Computers Toolkit

Does your organization have computers available to the public? Do you lack the technical expertise to keep them 100-percent operational? You’re not alone. While thousands of nonprofits are serving their communities by either offering classes or making computers available for casual use, most don’t have a dedicated IT person to perform the necessary maintenance public computers need.

Tips and Public Lab Management

These articles offer tips to keep your systems running smoothly, applications to ensure kids are safe on public computers, and software to help make your job easier.
Five Timesaving Tips for Computer Lab Managers
Strategies for reducing maintenance hassles on public machines.
Content-Filtering Tools: An FAQ for Nonprofits
Advice to help you choose software or hardware for your computer lab.
Understanding Content Filtering: An FAQ for Nonprofits
Answers to a handful of frequently asked questions about content filtering solutions.
Cloning: A Fast, Easy Way to Set Up Multiple Computers
Learn how you can automatically set up the same software configuration on dozens of computers.
Five Steps to Extend Your Computer’s Life
We'll show you optimum protection and maintenance practices for keeping your computer healthy.
Securing Your Computers for a Public Computing Environment
A comprehensive primer on how to secure your lab and workstations.

Case Studies

Learn how organizations around the globe are using public computers to reach out to the community, teach adults and children new skills, and make a difference.
Caminos Learning Center
A San Francisco-based nonprofit teaches immigrant and low-income Latina women computer literacy.
One Economy: Bringing the Net to Those Who Need It
Nonprofit provides Web access, content, and training to low-income communities.
Teens Work to End Digital Divide in Jamaican Schools
Teens For Technology brings computer labs to the country's schools.
Uddami Project: Giving Hope to Disadvantaged Youth in India
India's UCTC provides locals with free computer training, access to a better job, and a better life.

Discounted Software

TechSoup Stock offers discounted software to qualified nonprofits and non-governmental organizations. Only qualified organizations are eligible for TechSoup software donations and eligibility varies among each vendor. Please review the requirements for each vendor prior to placing your order.

If your organization does not qualify for TechSoup Stock products, the following online vendors offer competitive prices: PC Connection , CDW , and Amazon .

Free Software

Free software can make a world of difference to a cash-strapped organization. Some of the following downloads are only free for home and personal use, but check the vendor’s site for nonprofit and educational pricing.

Ad-aware - Tool that finds and removes adware and spyware from your computer. Free version for personal use. Academic and nonprofit discount available.
CCleaner - System-optimization tool that removes unused and temporary files from your system, allowing Windows to run faster and more efficiently.
Dan’s Guardian - Open-source Web content filter runs on Linux and Mac operating systems.
K9 Protection - Content filtering software designed for easy set up.
OpenOffice - Multi-platform, multilingual office suite is compatible with all other major office suites.
SteadyState - Locks down public computers and protects them from unintended changes and unwanted installations of software.
- Check out TechSoup's interview with the SteadyState Team
Spybot Search and Destroy - Tool that removes adware, malware, and checks your system against a comprehensive database of adware and other system invaders.

Participate in the TechSoup Forums

TechSoup's Community is a place to share and learn more about technology. Here, you can ask questions and get answers from an enthusiastic team of technology and nonprofit experts.

Accessible Technology & Public Computing ~~and Accessible Technology~~ Forum
This forum is dedicated to discussing the importance of access to technology, how technology can help people with disabilities and members of low income communities.
Virus and Security Forum
Discuss ways to keep your computer secure and virus-free.
Volunteers & Technology
Learn about working with technology volunteers and how the Internet connects volunteers with the organizations that need them.

Addtional Resources

The following organizations offer advice, articles, and resources for organizations with public computers.
America Connects Consortium
ACC supports community technology centers nationwide to improve programs, support community development, and improve adult literacy and achievement in education.
CTCnet
A national network of organizations united in their commitment to strengthen the social, economic, educational, and cultural life of their communities through technology.
HUD Neighborhood Networks
From the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, this expansive site provides a variety of information, including resources for starting your own community nonprofit.
NPower
A national network of local nonprofit organizations that provide unbiased, affordable, and appropriate technology assistance to other organizations.
One Economy
A multi-national nonprofit organization that brings broadband to the homes of low-income people and provides a multilingual Web portal called The Beehive .
Web Junction
Geared toward libraries, this site offers advice, forums, and articles.