Keeping member data safe isn’t just another item on the to-do list for nonprofits organizations—it’s the cornerstone of trust. For IT directors and managers, it’s about more than just checking boxes; it’s about securing a foundation of reliability that members depend on.
When members feel confident their data is in safe hands, their engagement and support are bound to increase.
But let’s be honest—this isn’t always easy. Nonprofit and associations typically have tight budgets. This means every dollar needs to stretch further, often at the expense of updated tech and tools. IT teams are small and mighty, but even they can be overwhelmed by the sheer volume of tasks. And just when you think you’ve got a handle on the latest laws and regulations, they go and change on you.
Despite these tough challenges, strong IT compliance is non-negotiable—it's crucial for safeguarding the trust your organization is built on. Let’s explore how nonprofits and associations can keep their IT practices sharp and their member data secure despite these obstacles.
Tackling IT compliance can feel like navigating a dense forest. Let's clear the path forward and examine the regulatory landscape that may affect your nonprofit or association, along with the key steps needed for success.
Start by diving into the regulations that directly impact your operations. Here’s a quick overview of key regulations that may affect nonprofits and associations, detailing who they apply to and what they entail:
RELATED READING: The Importance of Complying with Data Privacy and Protection Laws
Now that you know what you’re up against, it’s time to map it out. Creating a compliance roadmap isn’t just about ticking boxes—it’s about making a plan that’s easy to follow and fits into your organizational strategy. Break it down by quarters:
This step-by-step approach isn’t just about staying compliant—it’s about making compliance a seamless part of your day-to-day so you can focus on what really matters: your mission. For a helping hand in getting started, grab our IT Compliance Roadmap here:
For nonprofits and associations, data is more than just bits and bytes—it’s the foundation of trust and confidentiality. Establishing and maintaining robust data governance policies are critical for managing and safeguarding this essential asset effectively. Your governance policies should include the following:
Creating a clear, accessible document for your data management policies is essential. Update it regularly to keep up with regulatory changes and organizational needs and ensure everyone follows the same data governance standards.
To illustrate what a robust data governance policy might look like, look at our fictitious association called GreenPath:
Maintaining your IT infrastructure isn't just about compliance standards but actively safeguarding your operations. Regular audits play a critical role in this proactive strategy by:
Regular audits not only strengthen your security but also foster a culture of continuous improvement and trust, highlighting your commitment to secure data management.
By incorporating powerful compliance management tools like Microsoft Purview Compliance Manager, cloud-based AWS compliance solutions, along with versatile work management platforms such as Airtable or Smartsheet, you can significantly streamline and automate your compliance processes. These tools not only simplify the complexities of compliance but also enhance efficiency across your organization.
Microsoft Purview Compliance Manager automates risk assessments and integrates smoothly with your existing Microsoft 365 setup, enhancing your compliance efforts without disrupting your workflow.
AWS Compliance tools offer robust data protection features that ensure your organization meets stringent standards like GDPR and HIPAA, all while facilitating seamless collaboration.
Additionally, work management tools like Airtable and Smartsheet can transform the daunting task of documentation and compliance tracking into a manageable, efficient process with customizable workflows and real-time updates. Together, these tools not only simplify compliance but also free up your resources, allowing you to focus on driving forward your mission.
Navigating compliance can be tricky, so teaming up with legal advisors and compliance experts is vital. They can help you tailor strategies to keep you ahead of regulations, protecting your mission and the trust of those you serve. Here are the 10 key questions to kick off your discussions with your advisors:
By asking these questions, you ensure that your compliance efforts are thorough, up-to-date, and effective, safeguarding your organization’s integrity and furthering its mission.
Cultivating a culture that values compliance and ethical behavior makes a huge difference. It's about making sure compliance isn't just another item on a checklist but a key part of your day-to-day operations. You can embed a culture of compliance by:
Building a culture of compliance doesn’t just help avoid trouble—it strengthens your entire organization, making it a better, safer place to work.
IT leaders: commit to consistently refining your strategies. Empowering your team with the right tools and knowledge makes what once seemed overwhelming easily manageable. By following a clear roadmap (download our template here), implementing effective policies, and asking the right questions, you proactively position your organization to address compliance challenges.