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Dynamics Matters Podcast Ep 118: Beyond the hype: How Nonprofits can harness the human touch in a Tech-Driven World
With special guest Gareth Campbell-Julian, Director of Technology, British Heart Foundation
In this episode, we discuss:
✔ Shifting the mindset: From activity to impact
✔ The power of people
✔ Building a culture of innovation
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SoundCloud The weight of the world seems to press down even harder on non-profit organisations, given their reliance on the generosity and goodwill of others. And in a world of rising costs, the ability to generate funds can be the difference between saving lives, feeding families, or simply keeping the lights on. The pressure to find efficiencies and maximise impact is immense. Technology is often touted as the silver bullet, the magical solution that will streamline operations and unlock a flood of donations. But what if the answer lies not in the latest gadgets and software, but in the very heart of what makes non-profits so powerful: their people and their purpose
This is the philosophy that guides Gareth Campbell-Julian, Director of Technology at the British Heart Foundation (BHF). In a recent conversation, Gareth emphasized that while technology can be a valuable tool, it's not the key that unlocks success. "Technology isn't changing as dramatically as we might think," he says. "There are many ways to deliver a solution, but it's the energy around it that makes the difference."
This energy, Gareth believes, comes from a strategic and outcome-focused approach driven by the human element. It's about understanding not just the problem you're trying to solve, but the impact you want to create, and then harnessing technology in a way that amplifies that impact.
Shifting the mindset: From activity to impact
Many non-profits fall prey to the "activity trap." They become consumed with ticking tasks off a list, measuring success by the number of emails sent, flyers printed, or events held. This approach, while seemingly efficient, can lose sight of the bigger picture.
A strategic and outcome-focused mindset asks a different set of questions:
- What problem are we truly trying to solve?
- Who are we trying to reach, and what impact do we want to have on them?
- How can we measure the success of our efforts in terms of that impact?
By answering these questions, non-profits can identify the specific value they deliver to their beneficiaries and the broader community. This understanding then informs the best way to leverage technology.
For example, imagine a non-profit dedicated to fighting childhood hunger. Sending out mass emails might be a quick and easy way to raise awareness, but is it the most effective way to reach families in need? Perhaps a more strategic approach would involve partnering with local food banks to develop a mobile app that connects families with available resources. This app would have a more direct impact on the organisation's mission of alleviating hunger.
The power of people
Technology can automate tasks, analyse data, and streamline processes. However, it can't replace the human touch that is so crucial for non-profits. Particularly for those with an increased face-to-face retail element through stores.
- Storytelling: Non-profits thrive on their ability to connect with people on an emotional level. Technology can be used to amplify these stories, but it can't create them. Empowering staff with the skills to craft compelling narratives about the impact they are making is essential.
- Relationship Building: Building trust and fostering long-term relationships with donors, volunteers, and beneficiaries is paramount for non-profits. Technology can facilitate communication, but it can't take the place of genuine human connection.
Building a culture of innovation
Cultivating a team environment that encourages creative problem-solving and embraces new ideas is key. This doesn't mean every solution needs to be high-tech. But it does mean being open to exploring how technology can complement, not replace, the human element of non-profit work.
- Encourage collaboration: Break down silos between departments and foster a sense of shared responsibility for achieving the organisation's mission.
- Empower staff: Give your team the freedom to experiment and learn from failures.
- Invest in training: Equip your staff with the skills they need to leverage technology effectively.
Serving the mission
Technology is a powerful tool, but it's just one piece of the puzzle. By embracing a people- and purpose-driven approach, non-profits can harness the true potential of technology to achieve lasting change. When technology serves the mission, not the other way around, it becomes a powerful amplifier for the human spirit that drives non-profit success. So, the next time you're looking to make a difference, remember: the most innovative solutions often lie not in the latest gadgets, but in the hearts and minds of the people dedicated to making the world a better place.
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