Posts tagged Non-Profit

It’s all in how they are used.

Monetization is why many of us blog.  On one end of the spectrum, there is a full, dedicated business model looking to emerge.  The other is a hobby where costs are simply meant to be defrayed.  The blogging work that each of do places us somewhere along that continuum.

There is considerable chatter on the Internet about the merits of “Donate’ buttons on blogs and other web sites.  There are of course as many who believe Donate buttons are classy as there are people who believe they are trashy.  Again, the answer lies somewhere in the middle – based on how they are used.

Many factors weigh into the “how they are used” argument.  For example, a blog full of rich content that provides valuable assistance to visitors might succeed in placing a Donate button on the nav bar and possibly having a Donate page to further explain the reason for the request.  However, a site with little useful and compelling content would likely be percieved as simply asking for a handout.

Here’s a blogging resource site where the comments added to the post are as elightening as the post itself.  There are many perspectives, as one would image.  It supports the notion that the usage dictates the perception.

Can a Donate Button and revenue-generating advertisements coexist?

To paraphrase the opening sentence: it all depends.  If there is more blog real estate occupied by advertising blocks, affiliate links and direct advertising images that there is with meaningful blog posts and valuable information, probably not.  However, is there are just a few well-placed and appropriately sized ads shown and there is substantial blog content, then that’s a definite… maybe.  In my opinion, once ads appear on a site, it begins to be harder to simply ask a visitor for money.  Not impossible, just harder.   As ads begin to appear on a site, a certain air of “formality” begins to enter the equation and begins to move the position on the continuum from avocation toward vocation.

What if I sell my own products?

Nope.  If you are selling a physical item, especially your own product, my sense is that it would not be good form to ask for a donation.  The support you really want is for someone to buy your product.

What if I operate a non-profit?

Anyone in the world of non-profit organizations knows it’s all about the quality of “the ask.”  To further the work your organization does, you must ask for the donation.  But there are many factors involved – both in the online and offline worlds.  A relationship must be built and educating the potential supporter must be accomplished.  Only then can the ask take place.  On this post, called Going Beyond the Donate Button, this blogger makes a sound case for not only using the Donate Button, but just how competitive the world of online donations can be.  Her point: make it a part of a comprehensive strategy.

Wiki Support

By now, you’ve realized my reliance on Wikipedia as a source for basic and sometimes more elaborate definitions.  I’ve used it in a few posts already and expect to continue to use it frequently in the future.  This is my opportunity to promote Wikipedia and encourage all of us to support the effort.

The Wikipedia Foundation supports the ongoing work of the Wiki.  Please support their efforts.

Classy or Trashy?

It’s up to you.  Consider your content, your visitors, your intentions and your blog’s real estate. Each situation is different, but with some thought and careful planning, you can find a solution that works for you.

Provide support to your favorite non-profit.  Donate to Wikipedia.  Call your mother.  Hug your kids.

Dave