Are you working with a team of volunteers? If so, these apps will certainly simplify your life as a group coordinator. From simple sign-up apps to custom volunteer management systems, here is a list of the the best volunteer management software used by organizations and events.
Specifically looking for volunteer scheduling apps or software for volunteer signup? We’ve got you covered! See our top choices in the following articles: Five best volunteer signup apps and The best free volunteer scheduling apps.
Free volunteer management software
Some of the best volunteer management tools come with a free version. There are usually some limitations to the extent to which the app can perform for free. But very often this is more than enough for volunteer management at a small scale or with limited features
Zelos Team Management
Designed to activate the new generation of volunteers, Zelos is an user-friendly app with simple signups and live chats. Schedule and communicate live, host gamified competitions that reward effort.
Zelos is available for free without user limitations. The advanced subscription unlocks unlimited task volumes and endless chat history.
Better Impact
VolunteerImpact is Better Impact’s solution for nonprofits and community organizations. It eases the onboarding, training and scheduling of volunteers.
This platform is on the market both in free and paid versions. The monthly subscription fee is based on the number of volunteers, admins, and the size of organization.
Point
With a portal + mobile app, Point is a one-stop-shop for volunteer program for recruitment and management. It comes with a long list of features from events and schedule management to micro-donations.
The free version lets you do basic volunteer management. Premium tiers unlock the really advanced stuff with monthly payments.
Sumac
With specialized add-ons and customization options, Sumac is a personalized volunteer manager software, made to suit your current needs. Its Volunteer module enables you to manage the hours of volunteers and works great with the Forms and Reminders add-ons.
Sumac is available for free, but it offers fully-tailored packages with monthly payments.
YourVolunteers
Schedule volunteering shifts and manage virtual/nonscheduled volunteering hours with this solution. YourVolunteers sends a weekly update to your team, so they are aware of which shifts they have to cover.
YourVolunteers can be used for free with ads. You can remove the ads by upgrading to a monthly subscription or ask for a customized solution quote.
Non-Profit Success Pack
Also known as NPSP, this is a volunteer management system created by SalesForce. It automates outreach, creates schedules, tracks volunteer progress and exports real-time reports.
Eligible organizations can their account for free, others pay a monthly fee to add this module to their current SalesForce account.
SignUp Genius
SignUp Genius helps you to create and manage digital sign-up sheets. Volunteers can book hours quickly using any device. You can also message group members easily and export volunteer hours reports.
SignUp Genius is available for free (with ads), ad-free memberships sell with a monthly subscription.
SignUp.com
A no-frills sign-up app, SignUp.com turns your iPad into a digital volunteer clipboard where volunteers can.. well, sign up. Sort and favorite volunteers, share sign-ups with other organizers, and sync your volunteer schedule with other calendars.
SignUp.com offers a free version, and premium packages with affordable monthly subscriptions.
Mobilize
This platform is the perfect solution for organizations who want to manage volunteers in a community forum. Mobilize offers registration forms, in-depth user profiles, and personalized groups.
The app is available both in free and paid versions.
Paid volunteer management software
Higher Logic
Higher Logic is an online community and marketing automation platform for volunteer teams. You can create personalized messages to your volunteers, open e-learning courses, and collect useful activity data for future planning.
Prices are by request, but a third-party site reports monthly subscriptions start at three digits per month.
Track It Forward
Tired of logging volunteer hours? Track It Forward reduces volunteer manager workload with a platform for check-ins and hour tracking. Volunteers can log hours using a selfie, signature, or GPS. Coordinators can also create sign-up sheets, export data to Excel, and manage event RSVPs.
The monthly prices are affordable, and custom solutions are available.
VolunteerHub
Are you organizing an event? VolunteerHub helps you recruit and manage volunteer schedules, and send them text reminders. This solution also allows coordinators to export their own reports, create their own volunteer database and waitlist. Additionally, team members can book their own shifts and check-in on arrival.
Monthly prices start at triple digits.
GetConnected
The aim of this volunteer manager solution is for organizations to create long-term relationships. Find volunteers according to their specialized skills, manage event shifts, promote special opportunities and check-in volunteers with your phone.
Prices are quoted by request. A third-party site reports that monthly packages start at double digits.
Deputy
Aimed mostly to private companies, Deputy offers volunteer coordinators the chance to automate volunteer scheduling. It also sends schedule reminders via email, text messaging, or push notifications.
Users can pay a separate subscription for the scheduling and time tracking apps. The pricing depends on the number of users.
VolunteerMark
Already have your own volunteer database? Import it easily into Volunteer Mark and start scheduling positions, approving shifts, and updating your volunteer records. You can also target emails to certain volunteer groups and track volunteer h.
VolunteerMark offers a free month to new accounts and has three paid tiers to choose from.
Assemble
Assemble aims to replace brick-and-mortar offices with a digital volunteer hub. With this app you can schedule shifts, share news and social media posts with your team. But you can also verify expense claims, and host your own community forum.
Assemble comes in three different subscription categories, and prices are available on request only.
Volunteer Match
Need extra hands? VolunteerMatch runs a network of over 13 million volunteers. By becoming a member, organizations can post volunteer opportunities, send targeted alerts, streamline the volunteer qualifications process and create custom questionnaires.
Monthly memberships are affordable to most nonprofit organizations.
Volgistics
Released in 2004, Volgistics is a system that helps you to recruit, contact, and track volunteers. It can manage both small and large teams. Volgistics also offers VicTouch, an onsite check-in app which enables volunteers to sign in by touching a screen.
Prices are very affordable and vary according to the features used.
Rosterfy
Rosterfy helps you to manage your team better through a centralized platform. You can search for volunteers according to their skills and experience. Volunteers can book shifts, manage their schedule, and even swap hours with others.
The price is crispy, but nonprofit discounts are available.
How to choose the best volunteer management system?
As you can see, there are many options for volunteer coordinators who strive to become more efficient.
Choosing the best volunteer management system involves considering several factors to ensure it meets the specific needs of your organization.
Start by identifying your organization’s specific volunteer management needs. Consider factors such as the number of volunteers and the types of activities they engage in. They may have specific communication requirements, scheduling needs, reporting and tracking capabilities.
Determine the objectives you want to achieve with a volunteer management system. Are you looking to streamline the application process, improve communication, automate scheduling, track volunteer hours, or enhance reporting capabilities? Clearly defining your goals will help you prioritize features during the evaluation process.
Once you have a firm wishlist about your ideal volunteer management software solution, you can start shopping around. You can start with our shortlist above and explore the websites and online reviews of the more suitable apps. You can also seek recommendations from other organizations or colleagues in the nonprofit sector who have experience with different platforms. Their insights can provide valuable information about the system’s usability, customer support, and overall performance.
Evaluate the relevance of each application to your organization’s needs. Some features may be essential and some can be nice-to-have. Be determined to cover your core needs before getting excited about the fun features!
Keep in mind that your volunteer program may grow and expand. Choose a system that can accommodate a growing number of volunteers and adapt to changing requirements over time. Scalability and flexibility are crucial to ensure the system remains effective in the long run.
Most apps let you register an account for free, either as a first-tier subscription, or a time-limited trial. You can also contact the providers of the volunteer management systems you are interested in and request product demonstrations. A good system provides adequate user support and has a responsive customer service. Consider the availability of training resources to help your staff and volunteers get up to speed with the system quickly.
Take your time while perusing these solutions and choose what fits best to your volunteers’ needs, age, and digital skills. You should engage key stakeholders in the decision-making process, such as other volunteer coordinators and administrators. Gather their feedback on the systems under consideration and consider their input before making a final decision.
How to implement volunteer management software?
- Develop an implementation plan: Create a detailed implementation plan that outlines the necessary steps, timelines, and responsibilities. Break the implementation process into manageable phases to ensure a smooth rollout. Include activities such as data migration, system configuration, staff training, and user testing.
- Data migration and system setup: If you have existing volunteer data, plan for a migration process. You want to transfer the information to the new system accurately. Ensure data integrity and confidentiality throughout the process. Configure the system settings, customize fields, and establish user roles and permissions according to your organization’s requirements.
- Provide comprehensive training: Plan and deliver training sessions to all staff members who will be using the volunteer management system. Trainings should cover system functionality, data entry, reporting, and any other relevant features. Provide ongoing support and resources to address questions or concerns that arise during the training period.
- Communicate with volunteers: Inform your volunteers about the implementation of the new system and how it will benefit them. Clearly communicate any changes to the volunteer application process, scheduling, or communication channels. Provide instructions on how volunteers can access and use the system, and address any concerns they may have.
- Monitor and evaluate: Continuously monitor the system’s performance and gather feedback from users, including both staff and volunteers. Address any issues or challenges that arise promptly and make necessary adjustments. Evaluate the system’s effectiveness in meeting your objectives and identify areas for improvement.
- Continuous improvement and optimization: Regularly review your volunteer management processes and the system’s performance to identify areas for optimization. Engage with users and gather feedback on their experience. Stay updated on system updates and new features, and leverage them to enhance your volunteer management efforts.
Remember, implementing a volunteer management system is an ongoing process. It requires active engagement, regular training, and continuous evaluation to ensure its effectiveness and success within your organization.