Almashines vs. Anthology Encompass

Great for the simpler side of online transactions and not-so-complicated events. Is not as robust as other programs when trying to accomplish complex events (like a Homecoming weekend) that span multiple days and venues. It does require some level of expertise with the system to get the most out of it. It's less WYSIWYG and more coding/customization.

Incentivized

• It allows us to create fields as needed.
• Creating an export of data is really easy.
• Merging of records is fairly simple.

Incentivized

• User Interface, Clunky appearance.
• Can require deep customization.
• API can be fragile.

Incentivized

It does not have the automation or event tools that we are desperately needing at this time.

Incentivized

Includes nice features like click-through tracking, where an email recipient can click a link and land on a gift or RSVP page with their information pre-filled. Though it requires some back-end customization to really make it hum, in areas like user fields, taking the time to do the work allows for some really neat role-based experiences where certain criteria deliver a different experience to different individuals. However, those fields and roles require manual manipulation instead of automatic attribution.

Incentivized

It is usually up and running.

Incentivized

No integration.

Incentivized

I usually get an accurate response to issues. Your service techs are knowledgeable in how the software works and is set up.

Incentivized

N/A I've only attended webinar training, which is great when you are on live, not so much when watching a recording.

Incentivized

Most are recorded, so questions that arise are not easy to get answered.

Incentivized

Unknown. I wasn't here.

Incentivized

Encompass provides the closest thing to a single-vendor service for many engagement activities. An entity like GiveCampus, while it excels at microcampaigns, is also highly limited to that functionality. Encompass offers Advancement offices the opportunity to manage one API, define a superuser, and extend features on an as-needed basis, customizing them to the user experience.

Incentivized

• Single solution for multiple options is a positive ROI. Only one vendor needed.
• Other vendors may excel in one area (like events), creating a trade-off between a single user experience and the use of multiple vendors.
• It can easily take in 10X the dollars vs. the annual cost.

Incentivized