Come and Work With us - Dóchas Network and Systems Development Consultant

Dóchas connects, strengthens and represents a network of international development and humanitarian organisations who have a shared vision of a just, sustainable and equal world. Dóchas unites 56 organisations, ranging from small specialist charities to large international NGOs with a worldwide presence. Our members are committed to human rights, justice and the eradication of poverty, and demonstrate this through their work in international development, healthcare, protection, humanitarian assistance, sustainability, education and inclusion.

In our new strategic plan, we aim to further develop a strong and dynamic network that enhances opportunities for connection, coordination and collaboration. As part of that, we seek to create an increasingly innovative and inclusive space to stimulate and facilitate exchange and reflect on complex challenges. Therefore we intend to explore new technologies as enablers for this type of dynamic network space.

Context and Objectives

Dóchas currently uses the Salesforce (SF) platform to capture and manage data internally around our membership, suppliers, alliances, donors and sectoral stakeholders. The office operates on Google Workspace, using Google mail and calendar, and Google drives to store internal documents. Salesforce is connected to gmail and google calendar accounts in order to track activity for each Salesforce user against contacts, organisations and working groups in our Salesforce system. For marketing purposes we use Salesforce campaigns to communicate with and track interaction with members and stakeholders.

Dóchas connects members to each other primarily through the use of Google Groups, with document management via shared drives. Wider communications, such as the weekly newsletter, are done using Mailchimp lists. The Dóchas website and content management system is built using Silverstripe. Dóchas would like to improve efficiency through automated workflows and greater systems integration.

To explore both better integration of systems and newer, more fluid ways of collaborating we need to research and scope the most appropriate technology, the potential offered by online community platform and improvements in the efficiency of marketing, communication and reporting processes. The aim is to integrate and streamline all processes and functions for maximum effectiveness, both for internal use and for more dynamic member collaboration.

Objectives for Phase 1 Scoping exercise:

• Explore automation of business, marketing / campaign management and reporting processes
• Explore the use of an online community platform such as Salesforce Experience or similar, for greater fluidity in member and stakeholder collaboration
• Explore integration and streamlining of existing systems with new systems
• Propose the most appropriate work specifications and solutions

Expertise Required 

We would like to work with an IT, network and online engagement expert or company who can help us to:

• Assess our needs against our current context and objectives relating to IT, Google Workspace, Salesforce and network systems, communications and supporting software (e.g. Typeform surveys, mailchimp marketing, Silverstripe website)
• Advise on scoping an appropriate engagement platform and other IT investments in the most effective way
• Work with us to explore the options and provide high level costings for a suitable investment
• Carry out a cost benefit analysis for our requirements and context
• Identify potential issues as appropriate
•  Provide strategic, practical, and troubleshooting advice on this project

The successful consultant will have:

• Deep knowledge of CRM, including the Salesforce environment and Salesforce Experience
• Experience with the wider ecosystem of IT infrastructure, systems development and integration
• An understanding of networks and network development
• An understanding of membership organisations
•  Familiarity with the work of the international development sector
• Ability to assess business needs and requirements and corresponding IT and network solutions
• Good communication skills

See the full job description and application details here

The closing date for receipt of applications is COB 17 April 2024. 

Please submit your expression of interest in this tender to membershipengagement@dochas.ie, suggesting a possible methodology and rate, including VAT. 

For further information, please contact gillian@dochas.ie.