The “What? So what? Now what?” framework turns scattered thoughts into clear, compelling communication — for grant reports, social posts, donor pitches, and everything in between. We’ve all been there. Someone asks you to describe your work. You tense up, … Read More
Two UX tests that can settle your website navigation debates
Card sorting and tree testing are low-cost methods that put real audience data behind your site architecture decisions — replacing internal opinions with visitor insights.
A practical guide to repurposing your nonprofit’s content
Most nonprofits publish great content once and move on. Here’s a step-by-step workflow for turning your existing reports, articles, and media into targeted content for different audiences.
Is your website designed for your audience or your org chart?
UX design methods, part 1 A step-by-step guide to user journey maps — a low-cost method for creating nonprofit websites that helps visitors find what they need and take action. When I was the communications lead for the launch of … Read More
Tell better impact stories with the Pixar story spine
Narrative frameworks, part 2 Part 2 in our narrative frameworks series explores a simple structure that helps mission-driven organizations turn complex programs into compelling stories. Few storytellers have captured the public imagination better than Pixar. For the past three decades, … Read More
AI won’t solve wicked problems. But here’s how it might help.
The world’s hardest problems need human wisdom, not automation. But a smarter division of labor with AI can free your team for the thinking that moves the needle. We hear a lot of hype these days on how AI will … Read More
Is your content making an impact?
Three practical methods to evaluate your nonprofit’s digital content — so you can make smarter editorial decisions.
How to choose the right functionality for your nonprofit website
Not every feature deserves a place on your site. Use these three filters to identify what best serves your organization and audience. You’re brimming with optimism as the website project kicks off. Your organization’s new site is going to rock. … Read More
Washington Performing Arts: Everybody in, Nobody out
Washington Performing Arts creates personas for every production to build genuine empathy with diverse audiences. Their practical approach shows how to treat stakeholders as people, not transactions. Every mission-driven communicator faces this tension: your organization serves diverse stakeholder groups, but … Read More
Why your readers tune out — and how tension brings them back
Transform fact-filled paragraphs into clear narratives. The ABT framework guides readers through your work by establishing context, introducing tension, and delivering resolution.