Core System Replacement for Non-Profit Organisation

Market Scan and Vendor Assessment

Key Capabilities Demonstrated

Development of technology and business requirements

Market scan for solutions and system integrators

Technology options assessment

Board level recommendations

SofM helped a growing non-profit organisation transform its operations by recommending an optimal technology solution and supporting the procurement process.

Situation

A well-known non-profit organisation focused on financial inclusion and support for vulnerable communities was experiencing a period of rapid growth.

This expansion was driven by increased funding and the addition of new services to the portfolio. While this growth was positive for the organisation’s mission, it created significant challenges with its internal systems and operational processes.

The leadership team recognised that their core systems were no longer adequate to support their expanded operations and future growth plans. They understood the urgent need to replace these systems but lacked the internal expertise to navigate the complex landscape of potential solutions and implementation partners.

Challenge

The non-profit organisation faced several challenges:

Strategic alignment: The organisation had minimal understanding of the software and supplier options available in the market to meet their needs and had difficulty aligning new systems with strategic goals and future growth.
Procurement complexity: The organisation had limited expertise to plan, design, and run an effective Request for Proposal (RFP) process to select the optimal software and supplier combination.
Budget constraints: As a non-profit, the organisation faced tight budget constraints, making it crucial to find a cost-effective solution and prepare the organisation for the change.

What we did

SofM worked with the client to document its services, business requirements, and technology needs.

We helped narrow down potential software and supplier options, advising them on a two-stage RFQ process, first to identify their preferred software platform and then a delivery partner to implement the solution.

We mapped the strategic outcomes to business value drivers and developed the implementation plan, resource profile and cost model.

We then supported the organisation in securing Executive approval for the recommended software and implementation option.

Outcome

This engagement has positioned the non-profit organisation to significantly enhance its operational capabilities, efficiencies and effectiveness. By leveraging external expertise to navigate the complex technology landscape, the organisation has secured a solution that addresses its current challenges and supports its future growth and mission. The key outcomes were:

Procurement & operational efficiency: Reduced costs and accelerated benefits realisation through a streamlined procurement process. We also improved efficiency, helping the client better serve vulnerable communities.
Informed decision-making and capacity building: We provided a clear understanding of market options for better decision-making and enhanced internal capacity through knowledge transfer, strengthening future project capabilities.
Strategic and stakeholder alignment: We helped select a scalable, cost-effective solution that aligned with future growth plans and operational needs and secured broad stakeholder alignment and executive approval for implementation.