In the ever-evolving landscape of nonprofit missions, the key to success lies in community building. Imagine leveraging the power of Microsoft Yammer to unite diverse teams, share vital information, and amplify the impact on the lives of individuals worldwide. This organization did just that, and the results are nothing short of extraordinary.
New technology for nonprofits can be daunting. It's disruptive, confusing and there are days on inertia due to downtime. But digital transformations for nonprofits don't have to be difficult. Given the right tech and support, a company can reap the gains of an upgrade—with zero downside.
In the realm of nonprofit management, the challenge lies not only in the vast global reach but also in fostering meaningful connections within specialized groups. A prominent global humanitarian organization embarked on a transformative journey by adopting Microsoft Yammer to address this paradox. This article delves into the organization's journey, highlighting its challenges, strategic solutions, and the remarkable impact of the BUILD model on creating vibrant digital communities.
BUILD was created, a new lexicon to talk about collaboration by focusing on people first and technology second.
The Challenge:
The humanitarian organization faced a unique challenge — harmonizing a global reach with the need for specialized, supportive relationships. With half its focus on emergencies, agility, and effective communication were paramount.
Making the most of technology became essential to carrying out the mission for the nonprofit. The digital infrastructure evolved the way it does in many large organizations. There had been a hierarchical, top-down push of information — emails and reports sent to offices — as well as informal communication channels among employees.
The Strategy:
The Knowledge Management Specialist at the nonprofit organization realized the potential of social networks, and they adopted Microsoft Yammer and the investment in digital collaboration. While Yammer took off organically, a more intentional approach was needed. Collaborating with social strategy experts, the nonprofit Communities team devised the BUILD program.
This agile communication strategy aimed to simplify communication and information sharing, ensuring clarity, salience, and impact in online communities.
The Results:
Organically, different groups began using Yammer, that promoted sharing among users and centered on communities or common global issues. People who share work-related interests or passions not only learn from one another but also empower one another to perform better. The exchange of diverse ideas fosters trust among employees and encourages them to think and create in new ways.
The BUILD model created to empower staff and partners to make the most of digital collaboration to achieve the greatest results, and the model was a triumph. The nonprofit organization witnessed enhanced personal engagement, accessibility to up-to-date information, and a boost in creativity—Yammer conversations seamlessly integrated with their digital infrastructure, displaying the latest feeds to all staff. The team emphasized the platform's role in amplifying global communication and fostering innovation.
Saving Lives by Saving Time:
The journey continued in 2016 when the humanitarian organization recognized the need for organized community management. By investing in strategic practices, the Yammer network experienced a staggering 560% growth in two years.
Key steps included:
Network clean-up.
Rebranding (Yammer to BUILD)
Community manager training.
Qualitative data collection.
Knowledge democratization through the BUILD website.
Sharing best practices.
Growth measurement.
Digital Communities Connect Remote Workers:
For this nonprofit, effective communication isn't just about improving internal processes; it's about saving lives. With its vast network of workers, the organization relies on digital collaboration to share crucial information.
The "BUILD" program takes center stage, empowering staff to maximize digital collaboration for the greater good.
The Global Impact:
The value of local experiences shared globally is immeasurable. Through platforms like Yammer, the nonprofit facilitates the exchange of strategies, research, and practical knowledge.
Over the past two years, online community participation at the nonprofit has grown by 560%, creating a more connected and supported workforce.
Conclusion:
The journey with Microsoft Yammer for nonprofits is an inspiring testament to the transformative power of digital communities. By overcoming challenges, implementing strategic solutions, and fostering a culture of collaboration, they have strengthened its internal connections and amplified its global impact.
The BUILD model is a beacon for other nonprofits seeking to leverage technology for a higher purpose. As we navigate the digital era, the story of this nonprofit reminds us that the true power of technology lies in connecting hearts and minds for a shared mission: improving the lives of those who need it most.
What is Microsoft Yammer?
Microsoft Yammer is a communication and collaboration platform designed for businesses and organizations. It is part of the Microsoft 365 suite of productivity tools. Yammer provides a private social network for employees within an organization, allowing them to connect, share information, and collaborate on projects.
How has technology, specifically Microsoft Yammer, impacted UNICEF's global communication?
Can other nonprofits adopt similar strategies for building digital communities?
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