New database application for organizers?

We’ve been looking into the database problems that community organizing groups had with list enhancement projects last fall. It points up the real problems that groups have with their database software. While the activities of community organizing don’t vary much from one organization to another, the same cannot be said for their software, in fact we estimate that 60-75% have custom software.

They are using spreadsheet programs, custom-built applications written in MS Access or Filemaker Pro, modified versions of ebase, donorperfect, organizer’s toolbox, ms Outlook and a few scattered mySQL applications.

Bluntly stated, the situation is a mess – a mess because, without some effort to standardize, it’s nigh on to impossible for groups to share their experiences with each other. The training costs are enormous. There is no economy of scale for the community. PTP is interested in getting a community of practice going within the organizer’s community, but the ability to share best practices will be terribly hindered unless and until a more common technology platform is developed.