Recent report published by LASA indicates just how important digital skills will be for those working and volunteering in charities and community organisations – you can read the summary of the report here.
One of the key findings in the report is that 7 out of 10 charity professionals (78%)* think the sector will miss fundraising and income generating opportunities if charities and organisations do not fully engage with the development of digital systems and skills.
The report also reiterates points made in a previous blog posting and in recent briefings and workshops here at Cosmic about how the development of digital strategy, skills and systems needs to be led from the top – digital leadership is becoming a very real and demanding challenge for many in senior positions in charities, community organisations and businesses of all sizes alike.
Without real adoption and motivation for the use of digital communications and engagement the threat is that organisations will be seen by their clients and beneficiaries to be only ‘playing’ at their use of social media and therefore although short-term gains and awareness may be realised, there will not be the high-value, long-term engagement which leads to growth in donations, sponsors and supporters – the lifelines of every charity.
Here in Devon we have some shining examples of digital leadership in the charity and community sector – many of which are regularly used in Cosmic’s workshops and at regional events to promote good practice and to provide others with inspiration and motivation. We’ve also been able to welcome many of our colleagues in local charities and businesses along to our Happy Hour sessions which provide team insights into the latest technology updates and useful tips and tricks in developing strategy and skills around all things digital and IT. November Happy Hour summary can be found here.
* The LASA survey is based on responses from 334 organisations and individuals and took place in Summer/Autumn 2012.