Best Applicant Tracking Systems For Nonprofits

The best applicant tracking systems for nonprofits have to cope with three things a commercial product usually assumes away.

Volunteers. Often recruited in larger numbers than staff, needing screening and induction, and not employees. Many systems have no concept for them.

Panel processes. Not-for-profit and community organisations frequently use panels including board members or community representatives, who need limited, time-bounded access.

Clearances. Working with children and other checks apply to volunteers as much as to staff, they expire, and somebody has to track that.

Funding conditions may also require records showing how a position was advertised, assessed and eventually filled.

Ask whether volunteers can be managed in the system without consuming a paid employee licence for each one.

The Office of the Australian Information Commissioner publishes guidance on personal information. This is general information rather than legal advice, and obligations vary by state and territory.

See Sentrient’s recruitment management system and child safety and protection course.