A recent webinar titled NGO Data Maturity brought together Project Tech 4Dev and data experts from the Centre for Data Science for Social Impact at the Indian School of Development Management to explore how non-profits can better use the data they collect. The session highlighted a common challenge across the sector. Many organisations gather large amounts of information from the field, yet struggle to turn it into insight that improves programs, guides decisions, or strengthens leadership.
Speakers pointed to everyday barriers that limit progress. NGOs often operate with lean teams that juggle multiple responsibilities. Donor deadlines can be tight, privacy requirements must be respected, and fieldwork is often spread across regions and languages. As a result, data ends up scattered across spreadsheets, devices, and formats. Reports get produced but do not always lead to smarter strategies or clearer evidence for impact.
Insights shared during the webinar reflected broader findings from recent sector research. Global studies, including those by Data Orchard and Data Org, show that most non-profits remain in the early stages of data maturity. Many are eager to improve but need practical systems, leadership support, and time to build their capacity. The hosts encouraged organisations to view data maturity as a journey, guided by small and intentional steps.
The Centre for Data Science for Social Impact shared its own Data Maturity Assessment toolkit, which helps organisations understand their strengths and gaps. Project Tech 4Dev also highlighted programmes designed to support NGOs through mentorship, training, and community learning.
For ORNACO, the session underscored the importance of building a stronger data culture. Better data practices can help refine strategies, manage resources more effectively, and deepen the impact of community work. The webinar served as a reminder that data is most valuable when it improves lives, not just when it fills reports.
As the non-profit sector continues to evolve, this conversation highlighted a clear need. Organisations require the right skills, systems, and support to move from data collection to meaningful insight. The path forward is gradual, but with commitment and collaboration, NGOs can strengthen their data practices and achieve greater impact for the communities they serve.