5 Advantages of Cloud-based Software for Nonprofits

As a nonprofit, your software solutions need to deliver a high ROI while catering to the unique needs of your organization. That means you need to carefully consider every aspect of the technology you want before you buy it and implement it.

One choice that many nonprofits worry about is whether they should move business applications to the cloud. Cloud-based applications can have disadvantages for certain organizations, but for many nonprofits the positive effects outweigh the drawbacks.

So is the cloud a good choice for your unique nonprofit? Here are some of the advantages your organization can expect from moving to a cloud-based solution:

1. Easier data management and better integrations

Cloud-based applications are designed to make integration and data collection easier. You can integrate two cloud-based applications, integrate between cloud and on-premises systems, and connect pretty much any combination of software and data you might need. Additionally, cloud-based infrastructure is often designed to handle and process large volumes of data so your organization can use analytics to better achieve your mission. All in all, this means better data and deeper insight for your nonprofit.

2. Better remote access

Generally speaking, remote access for cloud-based applications is faster, easier and more secure. The cloud can be accessed from anywhere, anytime, so your employees don’t need to store sensitive information on laptops or thumb drives. They can simply log in to a secure server from any device. This not only improves employee collaboration—it helps volunteers and staff serve members from any location. Cloud-based applications are often designed for mobility and remote workers.

3. Greater data security

It’s critical for your nonprofit to keep sensitive private information safe—and cybersecurity threats continue to rise. Cloud-based solutions are hosted securely by organizations that can dedicate a lot of resources to keep up with the latest in cybersecurity. If you’re working with a reputable cloud vendor, you’ll experience a higher quality of data security compared to what many nonprofits can handle themselves with on-premises solutions and limited IT resources and budgets.

4. Reduced costs

With cloud-based systems, you’ll no longer need to invest in buying and maintaining physical servers. Additionally, automatic regular updates mean that you won’t need to invest in new software or expense upgrades. Lastly, your IT budget will be lower because you no longer need to troubleshoot your own hardware and software.

The flexible pricing options available for cloud solutions can also save you substantial money on the cost of the software itself. You can choose to completely own and host software, in which case you’ll pay more upfront cost. Or you can choose a subscription-based model, which means you’ll have a predictable monthly expense. Implementations for cloud solutions are typically faster than on-premises solutions, saving you even more money.

5. More tasks can be automated

In large part because cloud-based systems are easier to integrate, users can automate more processes and spend less time manually re-entering or consolidating data between solutions. Also, with the latest cloud ERP and CRM solutions for nonprofits, you can customize workflows specifically for your operations and simplify tasks from end to end. By helping your employees save time on recurring tasks, you’ll free them up to work on your mission.

Want to learn more about cloud-based ERP?

Read our eBook to learn 18 questions every business leader should ask about the cloud, or contact us today to talk to an expert about cloud-based solutions for nonprofits. Here at OTT, Inc., we follow a proven 5-step methodology to ensure that every organization we work with gets the best out of their investments in new technology.