Navigating the Evolution: From NPSP to Nonprofit Cloud

Since its inception in 2008, the Nonprofit Success Pack (NPSP) has revolutionized how organizations utilize Salesforce to drive their missions forward. Developed in collaboration with the nonprofit Salesforce community, NPSP expanded the realm of possibilities for nonprofits worldwide. However, as technology advances, so do the tools available to us. Enter Nonprofit Cloud, the next generation of support that implements beloved NPSP features with Salesforce core. This evolution promises enhanced functionality, leveraging tested data models and building upon industry common features. While this transition signifies a major stride forward, it also comes with its own set of challenges, particularly in terms of adapting best practices and navigating documentation across multiple clouds.

A Legacy of Dedication:

The journey to this point has been paved with the unwavering dedication of a vibrant community of partners who, over the years, have contributed their expertise to refine NPSP best practices. Their collective efforts have transformed NPSP into the powerful tool it is today.

The Nonprofit Community Commons Sprint:

Recently, a group of extraordinary individuals gathered in Chicago for the Nonprofit Community Commons Sprint. This event served as a platform for a multitude of projects poised to support nonprofit and education cloud users in the years ahead. Among the discussions was the critical task of brainstorming best practices for Nonprofit Cloud (NPC) in light of this transition from the NPSP managed package to Salesforce core. Proudly, two dedicated Navigators joined the charge in this endeavor.

Embracing Change:

The shift from NPSP to NPC requires adjustments in data modeling and nomenclature, inevitably inducing a certain level of stress for those who have been deeply entrenched in NPSP for the past decade. However, the sprint yielded substantial progress in addressing concerns, prioritizing strategies, and mapping out the road ahead. While the path forward is now well-defined, there remains the formidable task of implementing and analyzing solutions, all while meticulously documenting their advantages and drawbacks.

A Palpable Transformation:

Amidst the challenges, there was a palpable reduction in anxiety levels during the two-day sprint. A newfound understanding of the possibilities emerged, igniting a sense of confidence in the room. Remarkably, there was even a sense of excitement surrounding the new data models, which promise greater stability and flexibility for the nonprofit community.

Looking Ahead:

For customers and partners contemplating their future NPC implementation, rest assured that we are dedicated to delivering best practices as swiftly as possible. It’s crucial to remember that while this transition may bring its own set of challenges, in many ways, it represents a monumental step forward, ultimately leading to a more robust and effective product for the nonprofit sector. In the meantime, please don’t hesitate to reach out if you have questions or require assistance with your implementation. Together, we are better equipped to navigate these new seas and continue making a positive impact on the world.