DEVELOPMENT ASSESSMENTS
Generally all nonprofit development operations have their strengths and weaknesses; sometimes they are discernible by those inside the organization, however, it usually takes an objective outside review to bring them to light. Conway Company conducts thorough, comprehensive development assessments which provide clients with specific, detailed information to enable them to enhance both short-and long-term fund-raising success. Senior consultants have extensive experience in this area, having conducted more than 25 development assessments for organizations across the country.

When Conway Company consultants perform a development assessment they review past efforts, evaluate current operations and recommend specific action steps for the future. Their work will include personal interviews and on-site research followed by data analysis to draw conclusions and recommend future steps.

As part of the assessment, Conway Company consultants will review the following areas:

• Fund-raising programs including annual fund, special events, major and planned giving programs, recent capital campaign results, direct mail and/or telephone solicitation
• Staff effectiveness
• Communications and publications
• Record systems
• Prospect research, identification and cultivation procedures
• Board and volunteer involvement
• Program management and organizational structure

Prior to arriving on-site to begin the development assessment, Conway consultants will request reports, records and publications for review. Their work will include an examination of the following:

• Annual and development reports
• Solicitation strategies
• Annual and capital campaign results
• Special events
• Senior administrator’s visit calendar
• Budgets
• Donor records
• Publications
• Prospect lists
• Current and proposed staffing
• Development software

The careful analysis of these materials is one aspect of the assessment. Another important methodology involves conducting personal, confidential interviews with appropriate staff, volunteers and Board members as well as other constituents. If requested, Conway Company also uses benchmarking techniques in its assessment of the development office. By comparing the organization to other successful programs similar in size, service and geographic location, consultants are able to provide objective, comparative information. This combination of analysis, interviews and benchmarking enable Conway consultants to prepare a comprehensive final report which is presented to the client in both written and oral form. It includes observations, conclusions and a set of recommendations designed to move the organization forward.

Development assessments conducted by Conway Company generally take four to eight weeks to complete.

Conway Company offers clients expert counsel, the use of proven fund-raising strategies and an extensive knowledge of the regional philanthropic climate to maximize each organization’s potential through customized fund-raising solutions.