For organizations
Choosing planned giving software means evaluating both the supporter experience and the work your team must do after someone documents an intention. Use the same questions and a live demonstration for every vendor so your comparison reflects your organization’s needs.
Ask a vendor to show the complete path a supporter takes, from the first invitation through any estate planning or gift documentation step. Check whether the language is understandable, the experience works on a phone, and a supporter can get help when they need it. Ask which tools are available in the states where your supporters live.
Find out what staff can see when a supporter expresses interest or discloses a planned gift. Ask how the team follows up, records an intention, and keeps that information current. Request a demonstration of the reporting your staff will actually use.
Ask what supporter information is collected, who can access it, how it is protected, and whether it can be exported. Review the vendor’s security and accessibility information. If an integration matters, confirm the specific CRM, fields, sync direction, timing, and setup responsibilities in writing.
A useful demonstration should cover branding, launch steps, staff training, supporter help, and the time your team will need to maintain the program. Ask for the total cost and any separate fees before comparing proposals.
Case studies can show how another nonprofit used a platform, but one organization’s results are not a promise of the same outcome. Look for examples with a similar audience and program. Giving Docs has published stories from Feeding America, Hanover College, and New Mexico PBS.
Learn more about Giving Docs for organizations, or book a demo to see the experience.
