Software Development For Nonprofits

Updated Customer Intake Database from Access to Canvas PowerApps

Client: ELCA Outreach Center
Industry: Non-Profit

Overview

The ELCA Outreach Center, a faith-based, non-profit organization dedicated to meeting basic needs in Kenosha, WI, faced challenges with its legacy Access application. To address these issues, Red Hawk Technologies developed a Canvas PowerApp within the client’s Office 365 environment to replace their outdated system. This innovative solution streamlined client intake, service tracking, and reporting.

Challenge

An Outdated Database Hindered Their MissionThe ELCA Outreach Center was struggling with a legacy Access application that created significant operational hurdles. Effective data management for nonprofits is critical for demonstrating impact and securing grants, but their old system presented several key challenges:Inefficient Client Management: The outdated, legacy system struggled to effectively manage client data and track services provided.Data Redundancy: Duplicate records led to errors and complicated data management.Reporting Limitations: Generating reports to demonstrate the organization’s impact for funding applications was difficult.

The ELCA Outreach Center was struggling with a legacy Access application that created significant operational hurdles. Effective data management for nonprofits is critical for demonstrating impact and securing grants, but their old system presented several key challenges:

• Inefficient Client Management: The outdated, legacy system struggled to effectively manage client data and track services provided.
• Data Redundancy: Duplicate records led to errors and complicated data management.
• Reporting Limitations: Generating reports to demonstrate the organization’s impact for funding applications was difficult.

Solution

Red Hawk Technologies approached this challenge with a focus on providing a scalable, user-friendly solution. Our process for database development for nonprofits involves understanding the unique needs of the organization and building a system that directly supports its goals.

• Developing a Custom PowerApp: A Canvas PowerApp was created to replace the Access application, offering a user-friendly interface for client check-in and service tracking.
• Migrating to SQL Database: The application was migrated to a SQL database.
• Eliminating Duplicate Data: Red Hawk removed duplicate records during the migration to SQL, which streamlined client data management and reduced errors.
• Creating a Reporting Dashboard: A new reporting dashboard was implemented, enabling ELCA to quickly demonstrate the value provided when applying for program funding.

Red Hawk Technologies exceeds my expectations — their efficiency is great Karl Erickson | Executive Director

Key Achievements

The implementation of the new PowerApp custom database yielded significant, measurable results, allowing the ELCA Outreach Center to better serve its community.

• Improved Efficiency: Staff can now register new clients and update existing records with ease, saving valuable time and reducing administrative friction.
• Simplified Data Management: With duplicate records eliminated and a centralized SQL database, data management is now streamlined and far less prone to errors.
• Empowered to Secure Funding: The new reporting dashboard gives ELCA the power to rapidly demonstrate its impact, strengthening its applications for grants and funding.
• Sustainable Growth: The no-code interface of the PowerApp empowers the ELCA staff to make future improvements to their application without needing a developer, ensuring the solution grows with them.

Client Testimonial

Karl Erickson, Executive Director at ELCA Outreach Center, praised Red Hawk Technologies, stating, “Red Hawk Technologies exceeds my expectations — their efficiency is great”.

This testimonial highlights the positive impact of Red Hawk’s solution on the organization’s operations. By replacing an outdated system with a custom PowerApp and SQL database, Red Hawk Technologies has empowered the ELCA Outreach Center to focus on what matters most: fulfilling its mission to provide essential services to their local community.

How We Can Help

If your organization is ready to transform outdated tools into innovative, custom solutions, contact Red Hawk Technologies today. Together, we’ll empower your team and delight your stakeholders with solutions that match your mission and generate significant returns.