What is a development audit?

• A development audit is an internal assessment of your fundraising program and your readiness to embark on new development ventures.
• The development audit is a review of past and current fundraising practices and programs and establishes a framework for future development efforts.
• The development audit looks at involvement of staff, board and volunteers in your fundraising program and offers recommendations on how to increase the effectiveness of your human resources.
• The development audit evaluates the strengths and weaknesses of your development system including your computer hardware and software and offers recommendations to improve your system.
• The development audit helps you look at your program from the donor's point of view and offers suggestions to improve your donor communication and stewardship.

A development audit is recommended if you:

• Are planning to embark on a major capital campaign;
• Are not satisfied with the results of your annual giving program;<
• Would like to increase board participation in your development efforts;
• Want a good "barometer" by which to measure your development program and an independent view of how you can make your program more effective.