Nonprofits dig into databases for big donors

Article Abstract:

A growing number of nonprofit organizations hire researchers who use databases to locate potential donors. Researchers combine information obtained from searches of many databases to compile lists of individuals with desired income and other demographic attributes. Nonprofit development research specialists maintain that as long as data is obtained from public sources, such as the Securities and Exchange Commission and existing market research data, the research is legal. Others express doubt about the ethics of extensive demographic research on potential donors and fear that privacy is violated by researchers. A government official warns nonprofits that potential donors may react with hostility if they realize the extent to which they are researched. As a result of more sophisticated search techniques, many nonprofits have been able to identify donors that have given major gifts.

Usage, Software, Finance, Privacy, Fund raising, Nonprofit organizations, Databases, Database, Funding, Donation, Searching, Nonprofit Organization

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Callers push buttons for what they need

Article Abstract:

Use of specially designed computer systems as telephone answering devices is increasing. The technique, called 'interactive telephony' or 'automated voice response,' is more readily accessible to the general public than computer bulletin board systems (BBS). Telephone systems that allow people to pay bills, order insurance, purchase products or sign up for classes are now appearing. So far, many seem ready to use interactive telephone technology to access free information or request balances from banks, but people are reluctant to make significant commitments without talking to other people. An industry executive says there is currently more technology available than the consumer wants. Telephone systems have the capability to handle many tasks in a completely automated manner, but consumers need time to become accustomed to new communications arrangements.

Telephone and telegraph apparatus, Analysis, Telecommunications equipment industry, Technology application, Telephone systems, Telephone System, Industry Analysis, Outlook, Market Analysis, Interactive Systems, Automatic Answering, Telephone Answering Devices

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Gearing up: here's a primer on what you'll need and what it will cost to set up your own workplace

Article Abstract:

Equipping a home office can cost less than $1,000, and even a 'lavish setup' can cost less than $10,000. Here are configurations - for 'Basic Needs, for a 'High-Powered Office,' for 'Telecommunications' and for 'On the Road.' Typical prices are included. For example, a Basic Needs configuration consists of an IBM-compatible microcomputer ($1,000); a letter-quality printer ($270); an answering machine ($70); a facsimile machine ($480); a two-line telephone ($120); and a modem ($100).

Equipment and supplies, Telecommuting, Office automation, Home labor, Equipment Acquisition, Guidelines, Work at Home

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