It is commonly assumed that a computer has reached obsolescence the day it is purchased. However, while year-old or even five-year-old computers may not be able to run the latest feature-ridden applications, they can be perfectly adequate for working on a network, browsing the Internet, producing documents, and doing other nonprofit work. Upgrading your computer's RAM, hard drive, network card, or other hardware can be a cost-effective way to improve the technology available to your organisation and increase productivity when your budget is tight.

There's no need to do everything on your own. A consultant can set up a network, build a database or create a website. Before hiring someone, be sure you can clearly articulate your goals, needs, and limitations. Don't know where to start? These articles will help.