UGA has launched a new fundraising database system. Giving and Alumni Information Link, or GAIL, is a state-of-the-art, Web-based system to streamline the fundraising function for all schools, colleges and units throughout the university.
GAIL replaces a fundraising system that had a design dating to the 1990s. It effectively consolidates a range of information-annual and capital giving, gift planning, major giving, etc.-that had been stored in multiple locations in the old system into one source, ensuring accuracy, integrity, timeliness of donor data and improved efficiency of operation for GAIL users.
The Division of Development and Alumni Relations, with funding assistance from the UGA Foundation, implemented this system in July at the conclusion of a successful 22-month project to modify Blackbaud’s information management software to most effectively support UGA’s business processes.
“GAIL allows users to identify how donors interact with the university; whether it is through online communications, volunteer service, participation in university events, sponsorships or other activities,” said Derek Clark, director of advancement services. “It provides information UGA users need to more effectively engage donors and prospects in fundraising efforts.”
GAIL is a highly secure information management system that features internal and external Web accessibility and mobile capabilities compatible with almost all smartphones, tablets and other handheld devices.
“This new alumni and donor database system will greatly enhance the university’s fundraising capabilities and will play a critical role during the years of our comprehensive campaign and beyond,” said Tom Landrum, vice president for development and alumni relations.
UGA joins the University of Michigan, Ohio State University, the University of Iowa, Yale University, Boston University, the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and Wake Forest University, to name a few, in using the Blackbaud system. UCLA, the University of San Diego, Toronto University and other universities currently are in the process of designing and implementing their own versions of the system.
UGA also is the first university in the Southeastern Conference to move to this platform, which is emerging as the industry leader in the higher education fundraising space, according to Clark.
UGA staff seeking access to GAIL must submit a new user access request and confidentiality agreement form to Advancement Services and sign up for training, which will be held on various dates in the weeks ahead.
For more information on how to sign up, training dates and general information on the project, visit the GAIL website at www.externalaffairs.uga.edu/gail.
