A Customer Relationship Management system (CRM) is crucial for an institution in managing and analyzing alumni and constituency interactions and data. With the goal of improving relationships, assisting in strengthening relationships and driving engagement. CRM systems are designed to compile information on alumni and institutional friends across different channels which could include the website, telephone, live chat, direct mail, social media and other forms of engagement. CRM systems provide the underlying system for a comprehensive contact system for your alumni base as well as detailed information on personal information, engagement and giving history, leadership interests, and concerns.

Successful fundraising is based on relationships and information that is managed through the institution's CRM. Many of the Network Platforms support fundraising as well. Strategic implementation of the software connects alumni to the institution, to each other and to students. This table provides a comparison of platforms with information provided by the vendors based on key areas of functionality.

Fundraising software and CRM options include: