Alumni CRM Tools: An Overview of Needs and Demand

Inquiry Overview

An online resource provider was interested in custom research to assess market interest in a Web-based alumni tool that utilizes CRM technology. Specifically, the company wanted to gain insight on user and non-user needs and future demand for this type of product.

Key Questions

• Do institutions currently use an alumni CRM tool?


• Who are leading vendors to institutions that currently use an alumni CRM?


• Will current users stay with or switch existing providers?


• Are non-users likely to purchase an alumni CRM and in what timeframe?


• Who are the key purchasing influencers and decision-makers?


• Which product features are most important to institutions?


• What are the key challenges/barriers related to adoption of an alumni CRM tool?

Methodology

For this custom inquiry, Eduventures conducted a Web survey with directors of advancement. The survey yielded 119 complete responses, a 5% completion rate. For the purpose of this survey, an alumni CRM tool is defined as software that aids fundraising and development activities, provides reporting, and manages contacts.