Digital tools are the apps and software that your users will access to engage with your online service delivery. This page provides an overview of some of the most commonly used tools in the charity sector. It aims to give concise practical guidance that you can then build on as you research for your own situation.
Three top tips
- Find an organisation that has already used the tool you like and learn from them.
- Choose tools that are available to everyone. This keeps costs low and removes the need for complicated briefs to developers.
- Be clear about service remit with your users and your team (staff and volunteers).
Common tools
These are common ways to deliver digital services. We have included examples of tools that we know are used by many charities already. You should do your own further research before deciding which tools are right for your users and your service.
- Bookings
- Chatbots
- Community building
- Elearning
- Webchat
- Messenger services
- Online forms
- Video calls
- Video stream
- Webinar
- Communications platform
Many digital services will require a combination of more than one tool. Our partners The Catalyst are creating service recipes– practical guides that describe how charities have used tools in combination to deliver digital services.
Resources
Service recipes
Many digital services will require a combination of more than one tool. As part of the Catalyst initiative service recipes are being developed– these practical guides describe how charities have used tools in combination to deliver digital services.
Charity digital trust
Discounted software and digital guides and news
“If an organisation is doing something you like then message them and find out more. I was delighted to touch base with HIV Scotland on the platform they used for live broadcasting and it worked a treat for us too.”
Rob Murray, Cancer Support Scotland
