Principles and Best Practices of Websites for Non-Profit Organizations
Websites for non-profit organizations have several key tasks. They must educate the public about the organization. They may be able to collect donations for the organization. They must serve to educate about a problem, too. These diverse tools are key components to any marketing plan as well. Without a well-thought out plan, your organization could be struggling. What goes into a successful website?
Content Is First
The most important element of websites for non-profit organizations is content. The content of the site needs to deliver information and provide a strong presence for the website. Though search engine optimization is a part of it, there’s much more to it. You will need to do a fantastic job of telling your story in a way that will pull at the heart strings of those who you want to donate.
Easy to Use and Good Looking
Ensure your website is well designed. This includes an attractive layout that is easy to navigate to. Avoid complex designs with too many pages and various flash presentations. Your goal is not to be flashy, but attractive in a simple manner. You also want to make sure that your site’s navigation allows your users easily to find what they need to find whether that is information about your organization or the donation page.
Use Social Media
One of the best ways to utilize your non-profit website is to invest in social media. It allows your visitors to share your website with others. It also allows you to easily build a following on the social media sites. It is integrated into most types of website designs today and makes for a no-brainer when it comes to marketing online.
Engage Your Audience
What do you want your audience to do when they come to the site? Do you want them to donate, learn more, or volunteer? Be sure your website provides opportunities for them to do this.
- Is there a signup page that gives them something for free just for signing up to receive your newsletter?
- Is there a way for the individual to volunteer locally for your organization?
- Can they make an immediate donation on the site and see it?
- Can they find out what projects your group is working on right now?
- Are they able to share information about your organization with others?
- Can they comment on your blog or ask your questions?
- Can they contact you to learn about other ways to participate or to host a fundraiser for your group?
- Can they buy a t-shirt as a way to help you to raise funds while also promoting your organization and brand?
The key here is to realize the power behind websites for non-profit organizations. When you do, you will have all of the resources you need to deliver exactly what your visitors want. That way, when they visit, you benefit from it every time. Do not overlook the importance of a professionally build, modernized and search engine optimized site that ranks well in the search engines either. That is a part of the process.
