Introduction

NYFA's Knowledge In Technology is built upon the premise that a technology planning process is the key to helping nonprofit arts organizations appropriately integrate the use of technology tools to meet program goals and improve operations. Technology planning is a holistic process. It encompasses leadership development, organizational learning, change management, stakeholder involvement, evaluation of systems, and clarification of programmatic goals.

Technology planning is difficult and intense work, particularly since it requires thinking beyond band-aid solutions or convincing others who may be skeptical about the need to change. If your organization can embrace this philosophy, the results will be dramatic. Not only will you create a mission-driven technology plan, but the process also builds your internal organizational capacity and knowledge to successfully tackle technology issues on an ongoing basis.

A technology planning process will require change on both an organizational and personal level. It will require a "learning" mindset, that is the motivation to continuously acquire new knowledge and skills. It also means having to changing attitudes, behaviors and habits. This can be difficult if you and your organization are trying to accomplish much with limited resources and even less time. This Webquest is designed to help you better formulate a strategy to help initiate and sustain a successful strategic planning process within your organization.