Managing technology is no longer optional, it is a critical piece of any nonprofit's business plan. In this talk, information technology consultant John Kenyon gives invaluable guidance on the planning needed for small and medium sized organizations to get the most out of their tech investment. Using a work systems framework, Kenyon explores the choices needed to minimize risks and strike the right balance between people, data and technology.

Starting with a quick poll of the room, Kenyon confirms that many nonprofits operate without a clearly defined technology plan. Given the central role that computing plays in virtually every aspect of work today, nonprofits can ill afford to be ignore tech issues. Building a successful tech strategy starts with designing and implementing good business practices. Kenyon points out that computers increase efficiency, but if they are applied to poorly designed processes, they will simply increase the rate of dysfunction.

To keep up with the rapid pace of change, organizations should be willing to look to various sources such as consultants, and even their competitors, for ideas and inspiration. From hardware and software to databases, email and the web, understanding your data and the needs of all stake-holders is the first step in selecting and supporting the appropriate tech tools.

Kenyon steps through the planning process, offering concrete examples and excellent advice in the areas of email, internet, databases, security and budgets. Often, organizations underestimate the impact of IT on staff time. Along with the hardware or software purchase price, there are ongoing costs and "wetware" considerations such as training, support, configuration, backup and replacement. Preventative budgeting can alleviate a lot of technology headaches and help managers spread the benefits and excitement that good tech tools can bring to an organization.