Businesses and nonprofits need to keep a lot of records: Sales, donations, addresses, historical data, and engagement benchmarks. When these records are off or unorganized, it can create a lot of extra work and soak up hours of time. In some cases, it can even put institutions in jeopardy.
Fortunately, there are systems available to keep you organized and not only streamline, but also automate your record-keeping processes.
Local First was pleased to learn that Salesforce, the customer relationship management system we use is not only being used by our friends over at the West Michigan Center for Arts + Technology (WMCAT), but they also consulted with Database Sherpa, another Local First member who specializes in helping organizations get the most out of the software.
Database Sherpa’s strategy emphasizes independence. They empower their clients and teach them the skills to use and manage Salesforce on their own, relying less on third party consultants. We sat down with Leanne Rhoads, Director of Program Development, to see what her experience has been.
How it started
WMCAT works to provide equitable pathways to opportunity. They have workforce development programs for adults, visual arts and technology programs for teens and two social enterprises and a need to benchmark the success of these programs. After having a number of frustrations running incomplete reports, Leanne was introduced to Database Sherpa by The Right Place, an economic development agency in West Michigan.
How it finished
Over the next 8-10 months, Leanne met with Ashima Saigal from Database Sherpa to build out the software for WMCAT’s specific needs. She was amazed at Ashima’s capacity for support.
“The woman has patience for miles!” remembers Leanne.
At the end of the project, Leanne feels confident in the software and the reports she pulls. She’s able to make changes as needed and knows the information she’s getting is complete.
If you’re looking to clean up your data, visit databasesherpa.com.
