How to Get the Most Value Out of Technology Spending?

It starts with knowing where you are today.

When I was an Executive Director, one of the most frustrating things was watching money go out the door on technology I wasn’t sure we needed—and definitely didn’t know was working. In the middle of a tough fundraising environment, every dollar counted. It wasn’t just about cutting costs; it was about making sure our investments actually moved the mission forward.

I’m here at the AWS Public Sector Summit in DC, and one thing is clear: nonprofits are still spending too much on tools that don’t deliver real value. That’s why I keep coming back to Total Cost of Ownership (TCO)—a simple but powerful way to look at what your tech is really costing you over time. It’s not just the price tag. It’s the hidden costs: staff time, maintenance, disjointed systems, and tools no one uses.

Too often, organizations don’t have a clear baseline of what they’re spending on tech. And without that, it’s hard to make good decisions. The real question we should be asking is: Are we getting value from the tools we already have? Are they giving us peace of mind—or just more stress?

If you’re unsure how much your tech stack is costing—or whether it’s actually supporting your mission—let’s figure it out together. Email scheduling@cdxdata.com to set up a quick assessment. I’ll help you find clarity, identify savings, and make sure your technology is working for your mission—not against it.