Tools & functionality

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