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From the brains that argue Die Hard is a Christmas Movie – welcome back to season 2 of The Box Bash, the series where ob9 brains bash it out offering strategy, branding, and design insights through good-humored conversation. [Did you miss Season 1?]

In our 2nd season, we dip into the nonprofit budget sauce – how to get the most value from your communication, marketing, or design budget. We offer perspective about what’s worth investing in, how to ensure you get what you need, and how to avoid heartburn.

Episode 1: What Kind of Website Project Do I Need? Big Redesign vs. Modest Improvements

When is it time to invest in redesigning your whole website vs. when is it more cost-effective to make modest but frequent improvements to your existing site?

Josh argues for small meals often while Chris says eat the whole burrito. They both help will help you avoid spending good money on a website that may need a tweak or an overhaul!

Episode 2: Are More Deliverables Better? Quality vs Quantity

As a nonprofit, you need many touchpoints to connect with your audience in all the places they show up, AND you need to protect your brand with high-quality materials. With a limited budget, how can you get everything you need while ensuring you’re getting the most strategically developed solutions?

Claire advises investing in repeatable systems and expansive assets, while Amanda shows the value of starting at the very beginning (a very good place to start) so you only spend on what’s most effective for your defined audience.

Episode 3: Do I Need to Hire a Professional Photographer? Photo Shoot vs. Smart Phone Photos

Pictures speak a thousand words, and showing can be better than telling. Since everyone has a high-tech camera in their pocket, what’s the real cost of using photos taken on a smartphone? Is there value in hiring a professional for a photoshoot to build your photo library?

Our Jr. Designer Carlee, highlights the value of authenticity and in-the-moment opportunities captured by your own lens. Sierra explains what goes into an effective photo for storytelling — beyond point and shoot.

Episode 4: What’s the Cost of Maintaining my Website? On-going vs. On-Demand Support

Maintaining your website is a wise way to protect your investment in the public ‘face’ of your organization. What are the options for getting the technical and strategic support you need? What are the costs to consider in routine upkeep vs. reacting to problems as they arise?

Chris says you should only spend when you have a need. Claire says preventative care saves money. What do you say?

Until next season – tell us your opinion!

Claire Kennedy
Claire Kennedy
Claire values context, creativity, and joy. She uses these skills to help causes invest in the good of others.