Nonprofit technology evolves steadily. Blackbaud introduced its NXT cloud suite at bbcon 2014 and made Raiser’s Edge NXT generally available in July 2015. Since then, both Raiser’s Edge NXT and Financial Edge NXT have been shaped around a web-first experience. Features continue to move into Web View, while Database View will gradually be retired once those features reach full functionality.

At SimpliPhi, we see these shifts as opportunities. They allow organizations to modernize processes, strengthen teams, and prepare for future growth. As CEO William da Silva says: “Change is the only constant. The organizations that succeed are the ones that adapt.”

Why Web View matters now

Web View reflects Blackbaud’s long-term direction and offers tangible benefits:

• Access through any browser without desktop installs
• A cleaner, more intuitive interface
• New capabilities such as Work Center improvements and Query in Web View
• Regular enhancements that keep pace with modern nonprofit needs

For many users, the experience already feels different. Project Coordinator Christina Giffen explains: “I use Web View much more now because Query is there. It’s easier to share links and screenshots with clients, and it simply feels more modern compared to Database View.”

A Blueprint for Leaders

Leaders who guide their teams through product change create resilience and clarity. Drawing on insights from our work with clients, here are the practices that matter most.

1. Track updates with expert context

Blackbaud publishes updates monthly and provides quarterly product briefings. Information alone is not enough; leaders need context. SimpliPhi helps organizations interpret those updates and identify what truly affects their fundraising, finance, and operations.

2. Bring adoption into leadership planning

Technology readiness belongs on the leadership agenda. As Director of Professional Services Lea Hardcastle notes: “Clients want to stay current and not miss a tool or a best practice. Our job is to highlite what is worth adopting, and when.” When leaders make time for adoption planning, teams move forward with purpose.

3. Support people through transitions

Change is about more than new features. As Lea emphasizes: “This is really about change management. What worries people isn’t the software itself, but whether the fiscal year closes on time.” Clear communication and reassurance are what ease anxiety and build trust.

4. Test features in daily work

Christina describes her approach: “When a client has a data question, I try to resolve it in Web View and share the process back. That way they see it in action and build confidence.” Real work with real data is the fastest path to adoption.

5. Start with achievable pilots

New capabilities arrive gradually. We encourage clients to begin with areas like dashboards, lists, or queries. Small successes create momentum that carries into larger projects.

6. Provide perspective from across the sector

Many organizations ask themselves, “Are we keeping up?” Drawing on our work with nonprofits across diverse fields, SimpliPhi offers benchmarks and comparisons that give leaders the clarity to make informed choices rather than uncertain guesses.

7. Build a culture that embraces change

William da Silva reminds us: “Turning on technology is easy. Success depends on how people adapt.” When leaders model openness and curiosity, teams approach new tools as opportunities instead of disruptions.

Lessons from the field

• Fundraisers often adopt earlier, since Web View aligns with their daily work.
• Data managers wait until complex functions are ready, such as imports or global changes.
• Organizations operating in bilingual environments benefit from piloting early, since some translations and localized features release in waves.
• Clients who experiment early avoid last-minute stress when Database View access is removed.

Moving forward with confidence

Blackbaud’s progression toward Web View opens the door to more modern, efficient, and flexible operations. Leaders who prepare now strengthen their organizations and give their teams the tools to succeed.

At SimpliPhi, we partner with nonprofits through every stage. We ensure you use the best version for your projects, protect essential workflows, and never miss what matters most.

Not working with us yet? Schedule a free consultation to see how we can simplify your fundraising operations and ensure your software is always current.

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FAQ for Leaders

Q1: Is there a firm end date for Database View?

Blackbaud is retiring Database View features in stages as Web View reaches full capability. External estimates suggest Raiser’s Edge 7 may sunset around the first half of 2027, but official timelines vary. SimpliPhi monitors announcements and helps clients prepare in advance.

Q2: Where can I see what shipped this month?

Check Blackbaud’s What’s New page and attend quarterly product briefings. SimpliPhi reviews each release with clients to highlight the updates that matter most and ensure nothing critical is overlooked.

Q3: Is Query available in Web View?

Yes. Query has been rolled out in Web View and continues to improve. At SimpliPhi, we use it daily with clients to build reports, validate data, and troubleshoot.

Q4: What does “parity” mean between Database View and Web View?

Parity means a feature is fully rebuilt in Web View and can handle the same tasks as it did in Database View. Once parity is achieved, access in Database View will be removed.

Q5: Which Web View features are live today?

As of 2025, Web View includes Work Center, Constituent and Gift records, Lists, Dashboards, and Query. Blackbaud adds new tools each quarter.

Q6: How long will Database View remain available?

Database View is still accessible but shrinking in scope. Its retirement will be complete once all major features reach Web View parity.

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