The Data Collaborative, a database and web development firm in Massachusetts that serves a lot of mission-based organizations in the area, is a firm that consists of real mensches. 

Earlier this year, they started underwriting a few free technology consultations by yours truly, so that small nonprofits in the Boston area could have some much-needed strategic assistance.  I love doing these consultations, and am very grateful to Data Collaborative for making them a part of their service to the community.  Organizations I have worked with at the behest of  the Data Collaborative include Leadership Metrowest, the Parents Forum, and Chelsea Neighborhood Developers.

The Data Collaborative is now open to applications from more small nonprofits in the area that are interested in free strategic consultations.  There are a limited number of slots available, so there are no guarantees that you will be selected, but the application process is very simple.  It consists of three questions:

1. What does your non-profit do?

2. What are your technological challenges?

3. How do you think a consultation with Deborah could help?

Here's how the consultations themselves work:

A typical session kind consists of sitting down with me for an hour or two, alone or with key members of your nonprofit's team. If you prepare a list of strategic technology problems, concerns, or questions in advance, I'm often able to make recommendations on the spot. During these sessions, I can also walk you through a discussion that will help clarify how to subordinate your technology infrastructure to your mission.

In many cases, I can recommend products, services, and vendors that would be a good match for your needs. I do not ever take a commission on any products and services that I recommend, and will not make any sales pitches. In every case, my concern will be to ensure that your information and communications technology is helping you achieve your organization's programmatic goals.

Please note that I cannot provide hands-on tech support in these sessions.

After your consultation, I will be available to you by email and telephone for brief follow up questions. In some cases, I may do follow up research for you, and report back via email with additional information and recommendations.

Our goal is to provide you with the greatest possible benefit from a single session on a pro bono basis, and in almost every case a one or two hour consultation is all that a small nonprofit needs. 

If your nonprofit organization is small, based in the Boston area, and in need of some strategic technology assistance, please call Eric Segal, the Data Collaborative's point mensch for this initiative, at 781-777-1119.