Transforming Technology Pro Bono: Compilation

A Customer-Centric Approach to Effective Technology Pro Bono

In 2017, the Taproot Foundation and VMware Foundation collaborated to explore how we can better address social sector needs with pro bono technical talent. Through Transforming Technology Pro Bono, we introduced the Solution Development Framework, a customer-centric approach to Discover, Design, Implement, and Maintain successful tech pro bono projects.

In the following 2018 supplement, we delved into Discover and Design, providing practical tools and insights into these two critical phases. In this compilation, we dive into the remaining two phases—Implement and Maintain—and bring all the resources together into one guide.

Since we started this research, the median technology budget for nonprofit organizations has more than doubled to 5.7% of an organization’s total operating budget. Simultaneously, nonprofits continue to report not feeling confident they have enough skilled staff or training to effectively use technology. Since most nonprofits operate with limited funds and a lean staff they do not have the luxury of trying new technology that may not ultimately meet their needs.

We believe that tech pro bono can be a key capacity-building resource for the social sector. Our intent remains to provide practical resources that pro bono consultants and nonprofit staff can use to maximize the impact of technology by ensuring that technical solutions are useful and sustainable.