How Grant Writers Use Data to Present
Decision-making in today’s technology dispensing is based on data-driven analytics. Grant writers are equally gifted with how to use data effectively to submit winning proposals.
These are some of the ways that writers can use data to launch
Definition of the problem
Non-profit organizations exist with the primary goal of eradicating some of the social problems facing a section of the community. While a simple narrative on these topics can be provided, practical problem descriptions are supported by actual statistics about the situation. This includes data on the qualities and characteristics of the target subject and data on the scope of the problem. Consequently, the problem definition can include data on the importance of the problem, the cause of the problem, and how the proposed solution can address this problem.
Projections
After a detailed description of the identified situation, grant writers should provide goals and objectives that are measurable. This exercise also requires the proper use of data and data analysis tools. The inputs and outputs proposed for the initiative can be manipulated to provide a projection of the various project outcomes based on available data. Projections are crucial because they allow determining the efficiency, viability and sustainability of the initiative at different scales or using different measures and indicators. This is valuable information for funders and enables them to understand the impact of the proposed intervention and the necessary inputs.
Budget
The budgeting process is likewise a data-intensive process that requires precision and lacks naive assumptions. One of the main functions of a proposal highlights the resources necessary for the successful implementation of a project and for the realization of the project objectives. Therefore, grant writers must be careful not to provide an over or under quote for the project budget. Some of the crucial data applied by a grant writer include economic data that advises the costs of materials, the cost of salaries, the cost of equipment, among other resources according to the geographic location where the initiative will take place. This data is then applied in the budgeting process to provide an approximate total cost for the project and the amount requested from funders.
Presentation
The format in which the data is presented has a significant impact on how the target audience will react to its consumption. Grant writers are aware of this and therefore live to simplify the data in a way that appeals to the audience. This is accomplished through data visualization. Some of the formats in which data can be presented visually include graphs and tables, tabular presentations, and infographics that are interwoven with a combination of text, figures, graphs, tables, and drawings.
Grant writers increasingly rely on data to write and present grant proposals that lack unfounded assumptions.