How to use the Buy Till You Die Source -Dash format

This analysis is designed to create a foundational dataset for employing Buy Till You Die (BTYD) models, which are predictive tools used to estimate future donor behavior based on past actions. The analysis draws from the Gifts data, summarizing key metrics for each donor. It helps you understand the frequency of donations, the recency of donations, the donor's tenure with your organization, and the average gift amount. These metrics are crucial for predicting donor retention and lifetime value.

Frequency is calculated by counting the number of gifts a donor has made minus one, indicating how often a donor has returned after their initial contribution. Recency is measured in weeks, showing the time elapsed between a donor's first and last gift. This metric helps assess how recently a donor has engaged with your organization. The T metric, also in weeks, represents the donor's tenure, providing context for how long they have been active. Monetary value is the average gift amount, offering insight into the typical donation size from each donor.

The strategic value of this analysis lies in its ability to guide targeted donor engagement and retention strategies. By understanding these metrics, you can segment donors based on their giving patterns and tailor your communication efforts to enhance relationships. For example, donors with high frequency but low recency might be re-engaged with personalized messages or special campaigns. Understanding monetary value allows you to focus on high-value donors with tailored stewardship efforts.

You should consider running this analysis periodically, such as quarterly or bi-annually, to keep your donor insights current. Development officers and fundraising directors should review the results to inform strategies and action plans. Applying these insights can include designing targeted campaigns for different donor segments or refining solicitation strategies to increase engagement and retention.

To measure success, evaluate changes in donor retention rates, the number of repeat gifts, and the average donation amount over time. Additionally, monitor shifts in donor engagement levels and lifetime value. These indicators will help you assess the effectiveness of strategies informed by this analysis, ultimately enhancing your organization's fundraising outcomes.