The document discusses the concept of 'circuit riders' in the context of enhancing NGO effectiveness through technology. It outlines the background, model, roles, and the impact of circuit riders, emphasizing the importance of technology in nonprofit work. Key lessons include the need for focused support, management involvement, and the value of independent yet supported circuit riders in fostering collaboration and knowledge sharing among organizations.

2. “ Circuit Riders” A Model for Successful NGO Technical Assistance

3. Background The Need - Changing market conditions – market failing most NGOs Non-profit organizations lagging in effectiveness Groups struggling Technology offers new solutions to old problems 1996 TCN “Capacity Survey” What the survey sought to measure Technology seen as adjunct; not critical to program mission

4. Background Survey Highlights Little formal recognition of technology Few internal training or support resources Overburdened or conflicted “systems” staff Little or no management support No lack of technology but a lack of expertise Organizations had the technology, but didn’t know how to use it

5. Background The Pioneers - 1995 - W.A. Jones/TCN One year LEV/ZEV project 1996 - Brainerd/Bullitt OneNorthWest 1996 - Rockefeller Technology Project Ongoing Project 1998 - Multiple ongoing “rider” projects Artswire to DC Works 1999 – Over 50 official “riders” 2000 …

6. The Model What is circuit riding? Issue or project focused Cross-organizational Foundation “authorized” Foundation subsidized or funded Limited scope

7. The Model What is a Circuit Rider? Teacher Evangelist Researcher Facilitator Mechanic What they are not Computer geek Temporary help

8. What Does a Circuit Rider Do? Demonstrates power of technology to leadership Assesses the group’s technology capacity Develops strategy Implements technology to advance the group’s objective Promotes collaboration between groups using technology & service providers

9. The Results Budget Total budget of $120,000 for 1.5 years (including travel) Fifty organizations Three-four days a piece Impacts 100% Internet email 100% listserv participation Wide variety of problems solved

10. Lessons Start off with a bang Provide a small funding budget Start focused, stay focused Few are using what they have Few are using what they have effectively Management makes it or breaks it

11. Lessons Riders need their independence Every Lone Ranger needs a Tonto Backroom support LEV/ZEV succeeded due to TCN’s support Resources & expertise to draw on LEV/ZEV succeeded to to WAJ’s support

12. What the Groups Say: Biggest Barrier is Understanding Lack of Knowledge cited more than equipment Want someone to come to them Best if a disinterested ally Should be from non- profit community Has to translate “tech speak” Focus on solving real problems

13. The Future Current Rider Projects 50 riders on the range Annual Circuit Rider Roundup Sponsored by RBF, Surdna, Microsoft, Mott, Packard Development of Circuit Rider regional centers Baltimore / Washington DC Development of a circuit rider ranch? The National Strategy for Nonprofit Technology…

14. Use It - Lead by example and integrate electronic communication applications Fund It - Support FITness as critical to achieving program goals Teach It - Promote technology training Lead It - Put a another ‘Rider’ on the Circuit The Challenge to You * Fluency in Information Technology *