Hi all,
I'm the database manager for my organization and I've been discussing with our development director the possibility of following a more purpose based campaign/fund structure as opposed to entity based, which is what we are currently using.
This presentation at TLCC Denver is what got me thinking about it: https://www.tessituranetwork.com/en/Items/Videos/Webinars/2021/Streamlined-campaigns-funds-designations
Who out there has gone to a purpose based structure? Is it working for you? Any issues?
The biggest benefits to me would be the streamlined structure and cutting out a lot of the repetitive campaigns, I.E.: Individual, Corporate, Foundation and better reporting in analytics, but I wanted to get some feedback from other organizations, specifically those that are museums who are currently using this structure.
Thanks!
Melissa Payne
Database Manager
American Song Archives
Hi Melissa,
We have gone to purpose base at the FY change over. It is much more straight-forward, many less funds for fundraisers to get confused with and with designations always used it is able to analyse more granular details. The whole process of campaigns linked to funds is a much simpler layout. But I did plan in all out beforehand which would be connected which and what campaigns and funds etc would be able to be inactivated.
It has made a big difference to fundraisers who are inputting funds, as if done correctly and considered it does make the process much more streamlined. Reconciliation seems to be pulling through easier too which is helpful rather than hours manipulating excel sheets.
I presented at TLCC London on my process of transferring to purpose based. Especially as this is the process that Tessitura is actually based on - so makes sense rather than using a process that does not line up exactly with Tessitura which makes the kinks experienced.
The biggest think I found when training staff about it, was not the use of the process itself - that was easy - but actually how they thought about and understood processing a donation. And definitions such as campaign they would also relate to appeals as campaigns - which along the road has created some confusion over the years i think too.
Hope this is of any use anyway.
Ethan
Ethan,
Do you have a link to your presentation? If so, I'd love to look it over.
Thank you!