What are the best tools for coordinating volunteers?

1 Online forms

One of the first steps in coordinating volunteers is to collect their information, preferences, and availability. Online forms are a simple and effective way to do this, as they allow you to create customized surveys, applications, and registrations that suit your needs. You can also use online forms to track responses, segment volunteers, and send automated confirmations and reminders. Some examples of online form tools are Google Forms, SurveyMonkey, and JotForm.

2 Scheduling software

Once you have your volunteers' information, you need to assign them to tasks, shifts, and events. Scheduling software can help you do this efficiently and accurately, as it allows you to create and share calendars, rosters, and timetables that match your volunteers' availability and skills. You can also use scheduling software to update and notify volunteers of any changes, and to monitor their attendance and performance. Some examples of scheduling software are SignUpGenius, Doodle, and When2Work.

3 Communication platforms

Communication is key to coordinating volunteers, as it helps you to build rapport, provide feedback, and share updates and instructions. Communication platforms can help you to communicate with your volunteers in various ways, such as email, text, chat, video, and phone. You can also use communication platforms to create groups, channels, and forums where your volunteers can interact with each other and with you. Some examples of communication platforms are Slack, WhatsApp, and Zoom.

4 Project management tools

Project management tools can help you to organize and oversee your volunteer projects, as they allow you to create and track tasks, milestones, and deadlines. You can also use project management tools to assign roles and responsibilities, share resources and documents, and measure impact and outcomes. Project management tools can help you to keep your volunteers engaged and motivated, as they can see their progress and contribution to the project. Some examples of project management tools are Asana, Trello, and Basecamp.

5 Recognition software

Recognition is an important part of coordinating volunteers, as it helps you to appreciate and reward their efforts and achievements. Recognition software can help you to create and implement recognition programs, such as badges, certificates, points, and rewards. You can also use recognition software to showcase your volunteers' stories, testimonials, and feedback, and to celebrate their milestones and events. Recognition software can help you to retain and attract volunteers, as they can feel valued and recognized for their work. Some examples of recognition software are Kudos, Credly, and BONZAI.

6 Feedback tools

Feedback is another essential part of coordinating volunteers, as it helps you to improve your volunteer management process and your volunteers' experience. Feedback tools can help you to collect and analyze feedback from your volunteers, such as surveys, polls, and reviews. You can also use feedback tools to act on feedback, such as by making changes, addressing issues, and following up with volunteers. Feedback tools can help you to enhance your volunteer satisfaction and loyalty, as they can feel heard and respected for their opinions. Some examples of feedback tools are Typeform, Qualtrics, and Google Analytics.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?