The importance of data managment for NFPs

Data is incredibly important to the management of NFPs and charities.

The ACNC has published a guide to help charities consider the issues of information and data management.

With an increasing awareness of the importance of privacy and information and data security, charities should consider their practices for collecting, storing and using people’s information and data.

The guide, Managing people’s information and data, highlights the importance of responsible information and data management, presents an overview of the laws that may apply, and provides tips for charities considering their information and data management practices.

ACNC Commissioner Susan Pascoe said that the guide was a timely reminder for charities that the public want to see responsible management of people’s information and data.

“The community expects a charity to be responsible and ethical when managing information and data about its donors, supporters, staff and volunteers, and the people it helps,” Pascoe said.

“Understanding and meeting community expectations is crucial for protecting a charity’s reputation and public support for its work.

“The people in charge of a charity should make sure that its information and data management practices reflect its values and those of the community.”

The ACNC sees information and data management as an important part of good governance and encourages all charities to consider their practices carefully.

Beyond the legal requirements that may apply, it is important that a charity’s responsible persons consider the public perception of its information and data management.

The ACNC said maintaining public trust, confidence and support is crucial for a charity’s work, and good governance practices are the foundation for this.