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The Commons

Our Blog of News, Tips, & Insights

Our Blog of News, Tips & Insights

Welcome to The Commons, 501 Commons' blog, where we share:

  • How-to's, tips, and tricks from nonprofit tech, finance, HR, and other areas
  • News and updates about upcoming events, programs, and services
  • Thought-provoking pieces around topics, such as skills-based volunteerism, nonprofit management, and more
  • Stories from clients about the impact of 501 Commons' programs and services

Plus, we invite your comments! Add your thoughts to these posts, so our blog truly becomes "The Commons."

A Simple and Free Image Editor for Your Next Project

Published Jan 24, 2013 08:50 AM

Originally published on the NPower blog, this post review the free image editor tool - Paint.net. Need to create a quick drawing or diagram? Want to touch up a photograph? If you’re using a Windows-based computer, here’s a free, light-weight photo editor that is simple to use. Read more...

A Simple and Free Image Editor for Your Next Project - Read More…

How Social Media Savvy are You?

How Social Media Savvy are You?

Published Jan 15, 2013 02:40 PM

In honor of the HandsOn Tech Team's upcoming Social Media 101 presentation (it's free!), here are some resources for those dipping their toe in the social media pool.

How Social Media Savvy are You? - Read More…

Three Great Mobile Sites by Seattle Nonprofits

Published Jan 10, 2013 08:55 AM

Originally published on the NPower blog in March 2012, this post highlights the forward-thinking work being done by three Seattle-area nonprofits in providing good mobile web experiences. Click through to learn more about these nonprofits and gain some tips and resources to help your nonprofit get mobile-ready.

Three Great Mobile Sites by Seattle Nonprofits - Read More…

Volunteer Opportunities for the New Year

Volunteer Opportunities for the New Year

Published Jan 03, 2013 11:38 AM

If you resolved to help others and volunteer more in 2013, we have several great opportunities for you! From social service agencies to arts organizations, you can put your skills to work to support nonprofits.

Volunteer Opportunities for the New Year - Read More…

Salesforce Apps: What You Need to Know BEFORE You Install

Published Dec 18, 2012 09:10 AM

From time to time, our consultants put together posts about technology issues, how-tos or best practices. This post comes from Patrick, our Senior Database and Online Services Consultant, he spends much of his day working with clients to help customize, implement and learn Salesforce databases. In this post, Patrick discusses common issues that can arise for organizations seeking further customization.

Salesforce Apps: What You Need to Know BEFORE You Install - Read More…

We Have Lift-Off!

We Have Lift-Off!

Published Dec 10, 2012 04:10 PM

We often talk with nonprofits about how to better use their website to tell their story. Websites are a key tool in strengthening engagement of donors, volunteers, and partners. With our own website redesign, it was time to take our own advice. Visit a bit and let us know what you think.

We Have Lift-Off! - Read More…

Policy Governance Workshop Jan. 22

Policy Governance Workshop Jan. 22

Published Dec 10, 2012 02:05 PM

501 Commons presents an informative introduction to Policy Governance on January 22, 5-8pm. Get a solid understanding of the principles and practices of this fast growing approach to nonprofit governance.

Policy Governance Workshop Jan. 22 - Read More…

Security Policies for Mobile Devices

Published Dec 04, 2012 09:40 PM

Originally published on the NPower blog, this post was written by NPower consultants seeking to provide some helpful information regarding security policies and mobile devices. Click through for details about smartphone usage, security, and more.

Security Policies for Mobile Devices - Read More…

Google Apps for Nonprofits: Your Questions Answered

Google Apps for Nonprofits: Your Questions Answered

Published Nov 18, 2012 01:00 PM

During the Google Apps for Nonprofits training on Nov 7, audience members wrote related questions into a shared document for the Tech Corps to later answer. This blog are the responses to those questions.

Google Apps for Nonprofits: Your Questions Answered - Read More…

Passwords and Security

Published Nov 14, 2012 09:35 AM

Using an online password manager throughout your organization can not only save staff time, it can protect important records and information and avoid fraud.

Passwords and Security - Read More…