Free software comes at a cost to your nonprofit

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Free software comes at a cost to your nonprofit 

At a glance, no-cost software would appear to give you the capabilities you need and make commercial products seem unnecessary. But it can come with real costs and risks. There are alternatives that may be a much better fit for your nonprofit. As Microsoft explains in the e-book “7 pitfalls of free software to avoid,” free software tools can present challenges and restrictions that require expenses and efforts to overcome. For example: 
 

  • Lack of team collaboration capabilities 
  • Poor data security 
  • Unprofessional emails 
  • Inability to work offline 
  • Incompatibility with common software and standards 
  • Limited functionality in critical areas 
  • No policy-based management for staff computers 


Given these limitations, free software may not be the best way to enable your staff and volunteers to work effectively with constituents, donors, and board members. In fact, it may make it harder to manage finances and donations, raise funds, and connect with your communities. 


The e-book also highlights best practice guidance and software solutions that are both powerful and affordable. Nonprofit experts can help you benefit from technology that supports your mission and fits the way you work. We can also assist you in accessing the many Microsoft grants, discounts, and offerings specifically for nonprofits. Contact us now.  

 

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