Podcast: From Spoke To Hub – Derek Drockelman On Data’s New Role

The landscape of data management for nonprofits, associations, and foundations is undergoing a profound shift. For professionals leading these vital organizations, understanding this change is key to driving meaningful growth and impact. What is data’s new role going to be?

In the latest episode, Kyle Haines sits down with data expert Derek Drockelman, who unpacks this critical evolution. For years, the application—be it a CRM, accounting system, or donor database—sat at the center of the organization, acting as a silo, holding and guarding vital information. But what happens when that information needs to talk to other systems? Too often, it gets trapped.

Derek explains how modern organizations are moving past this application-centric model. The new powerhouse is the data platform, a new role for data.

A data platform emerges as the true hub, enabling organizations to systematically break down those frustrating data silos that plague efficiency and insight. It’s a shift in mindset: instead of viewing data as a byproduct of your software, you begin treating it as a core, strategic asset.

So, why does this new data role matter to you and your organization?

When you consolidate and liberate your data, you unlock massive potential. This strategic approach deepens constituent relationships, surfaces powerful and actionable insights into fundraising and program effectiveness, and ultimately drives sustainable growth. For Build, this means a more holistic, future-proof strategy.

If you are in an executive role ready to move your organization into the next era of data-driven decision-making, tune in to learn the new role of your data to transform your mission delivery.