Cloud-based software services have transformed administration, finance, reporting and almost every other business activity. For Foundations this is critical, time and costs savings from adopting cloud services can directly contribute to delivering their mission.
The benefits go beyond financial savings. The public, clients, suppliers and other stakeholders are accustomed to the accessibility and ease of use of cloud-based systems for collaboration and engagement commonly used in the for-profit sector.
Foundations are challenged to meet these expectations. Fortunately, there are no shortage of options and opportunities that will meet the needs of small local or large international foundations.
How can a Foundation choose the right cloud-based software service and technology partner? Here are some recommendations to help guide you, including where to find some immediate bottom-line benefits.
Selecting Cloud Software
Choosing the Right Technology Partner
Capture Some Quick Wins
Why Cloud?
Cloud-based services offer the software, hosting and management of the system all delivered from a vast secure and powerful environment. In a cloud environment 1000s of servers all behave as one system offering scalability on-demand for storage and processing capability. This makes it much more reliable than hosting software on your own server, or locally on a desktop.
Data is stored efficiently across clusters of hard drives and the account simply represents a virtual presence within this vast environment. Network access is provided via a very high quality and fast internet connection. All data is encrypted to ensure the highest level of security.
Major cloud providers are certified by governments worldwide for strict compliance to data security and privacy and ensuring they meet data localisation regulations. This makes cloud options far more secure than locally hosted software on personal computers, especially for many organisations that do not have sophisticated IT teams to manage infrastructure security.
Leading Innovators
In 2012 Tactiv migrated Enquire to the cloud, making it the first Australian cloud-based grant, contract and impact reporting software system.
More than six years on Tactiv continues to grow its cloud services and options for clients, taking advantage of the cloud to provided unlimited access, industry leading uptime, secure data backups, constant software upgrades and no storage charges or limits on project volumes.
Tactiv continues to create and develop leading innovations with Enquire so our clients enjoy a flexible and best practice system with the support they need to succeed.
Ready to take the next step? Talk with us about how cloud-based Enquire can help modernise your grant, contract and impact reporting software. Foundations can register for a free one month trial of Enquire.
Enquire Grant, Contract and Impact Reporting Management software streamlines administration, enhances visibility and automates reporting across our 3 easy-to-use online solutions.