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If you're tasked with finding a Salesforce partner for your charity, the process can seem a bit daunting. Here's a straightforward guide to help you navigate it.
Where to Start
Begin by visiting the Salesforce.org website. In the footer under Popular Links, you'll find an option titled Find or Become a Partner. Click on this, then select the Find an Expert button to start your search.
Four Simple Steps
Salesforce will guide you through a four-step process to narrow down your partner options:
- Products or Services: Choose Nonprofit Solutions.
- Industries: Select Nonprofit.
- Location: Choose Australia (or your specific region).
- Matching Partners: Opt for Small (or Medium) partners, depending on your charity’s size and project scope.
Once you've done this, click on View the Listing.
Exploring the AppExchange Listings
The partner listings on the Salesforce AppExchange include three main tabs:
- Overview
- Expertise
- Reviews
You'll also see an overall customer satisfaction rating out of 5 stars. Under the Expertise tab, check for certifications and Partner Navigator achievements, which signal their experience and skill in nonprofit projects.
Reviewing Feedback
Read customer reviews carefully. Salesforce verifies these, so they’re a reliable source of feedback. A good tip is to compare the number of projects completed with the number of reviews. If the reviews seem sparse in comparison, it might indicate that some clients have not left feedback—which could be a red flag.
Investigate Further
After checking their AppExchange profile, visit the partner's website. Look for case studies that align with the type of project you're planning. Seeing similar work is a good indicator of whether they understand the unique needs of nonprofits.
Ready to Connect?
If a partner looks promising, schedule a call to discuss your project. Ask them about their expertise, certifications, and their specific experience with nonprofit organisations. It's crucial to confirm that they are a registered Salesforce partner and that their team members are Nonprofit Cloud Consultant Certified.
Shortlist and Check References
Once you've spoken to a few potential partners, make a shortlist. Conduct reference checks as you would when hiring an employee—ask about their past work, reliability, and customer service.
Test with a Small Project
If you're still unsure, consider engaging the partner for a smaller project first, like a health check of your current system. This way, you can assess the quality of their work before committing to a larger project.
Additional Help
If navigating the request for proposal (RFP) process feels overwhelming, there are specialists like Benefolk can assist you throughout the entire process.
Have more questions? Feel free to reach out! We're here to help.
