we build digital cultures fit for purpose

isn't it time you had tech on your side?

We're changing the way that nonprofits harness technology by taking a holistic, outcome-focused approach to building digital capability. In doing so, we create streamlined workflows for your team, which allow you to do more good with less.

common challenges

has your organisation experienced any of the following challenges?
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failed projects

A major transformation project, such as the roll out of a new system hasn't delivered on its promise, not for technical reasons alone but in part because it hasn't been adopted.
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difficulty onboarding

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fragmented workforce

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resistance to change

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technical difficulties

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staff disatisfaction

why these issues exist
it's time to rethink the everything-is-a-project approach to technology
With organisations often unable to afford to hire staff with skills in technology internally, it's no wonder that the sector has had to rely on consulting and technical implementation projects instead.
But let's face it, this approach isn't working for us. In our research we've heard heartbreaking stories, like those of organisations who have received grants to fund major implementation projects, all for nothing, because the tool was ultimately unable to be adopted.
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incentives are misaligned

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integration isn't considered

Projects are scoped in isolation, without considering how they fit into the broader technology landscape of the organisation.
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only the tech is scoped

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staff aren't involved

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the process is rigid

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training is an afterthought

digicultural challenges need digicultural fixes

digital transformation

digital strategy

digital culture

Your digital culture is the ecosystem of software, data, people and processes that interact within your organisation to get work done on a day-to-day basis.
Understanding the difference between digital culture, digital strategy, and digital transformation is key for any organisation wanting to thrive in the digital age.

digital culture

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Refers to the values, attitudes and behaviors that shape how people use digital tools in the workplace.
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In a strong digital culture, people and technology work together harmoniously to get work done.
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Focuses on how tools can adapt to fit our workflow, rather than our workflows adapting to tools.
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Without a strong underlying digital culture, digital transformation isn't likely to deliver on its promise.

digital strategy

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Refers to the plan an organisation develops to achieve its business objectives using technology.
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Involves creating a set of projects that align with the organisation's overall goals and objectives.
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Helps organisations create value for their customers, and increase efficiency and productivity.
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Doesn't fix underlying digicultural issues such as poor buy-in, or a lack of digital skills among staff.

digital transformation

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Refers to the process of using digital technologies to change the way an organisation operates.
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Focuses on integrating digital technologies into every aspect of an organisation's operations.
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Without a clear digital strategy in place, it is likely that the project will lack direction and focus.
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Without a strong underlying digital culture, there is a risk that new systems won't be adopted.
...and those can be tricky to solve
working with us
we specialise in creating thriving digital cultures
We help organisations unlock the power of technology by building strong digital cultures that enable them to do more good with less.
Our evidence-based process draws from fields of digital culture, change management, lean methodology, and design thinking to deliver the best results in every one of our engagements.

benefits of our approach

what makes us different is what makes us better

we're on your side

Many IT support providers operate on a break-fix model, which means they rely on recurring issues to maintain their revenue. Similarly, there is an inherent financial incentive for consultants to complete projects as quickly as possible which may lead to temporary solutions.
At Zentient, we have introduced an engagement model in which your assigned Zentient Site Manager will work from your space for a defined number of days. As a result, you know we're not going to push rushed solutions. Instead, we're all on the same team, working together to get the most out of the time that we have in that month.

We work holistically

Technology can be a significant financial commitment for any organisation. That's why we don't simply provide project scopes and quotes without first taking a holistic view of your organisation's needs to determine where your investment can go the furthest.
Technology is not just about the tools you use, but also the way those tools interact with the people and systems within your organisation. Our model focuses on finding the best solution for your organisation's unique needs, rather than simply selling you a pre-packaged solution that may not be the best use of your money.

Towards self-sufficiency

While not every organisation is ready to manage their IT internally straight away, our engagements are guided by a belief that our role is to build momentum and capacity, and not simply to build systems that no one understands.
Our ultimate goal is to work ourselves out of a job, so to speak, by equipping your organisation with the tools, knowledge, skills, and resources to maintain and advance your own digital culture and technology systems. With our support, we are confident that your organisation can reach self-sufficiency.

specialists in not-for-profit technology

Unlike some other firms that treat not-for-profit work as a subsidiary of their corporate business, we have designed our model from the ground up to meet the specific needs and challenges of not-for-profits. Our approach is based on hundreds of hours of research, including interviews with top executives in the sector.
As a result of our wide network of clients, we have gained unparalleled access to a wealth of knowledge about the sector, regarding which tools that are being used, how those tools have performed and any underlying trends.

our team

we know technology but we're also human beings
James audcent
co-founder & ceo
By training, I'm a certified computer and data science nerd, but my real passion lies in helping not-for-profits build mature digital cultures that equip them to remain commercially resilient in a time of increasing pressure.
steven hodgskin
co-founder & architect
Looking at my resume you'd see years of experience in technology and management consulting. But what I really love is purposeful work filled with human connection, and the potential to empower others and alleviate suffering.
tallulah chong
co-founder & site manager
My experience in the not-for-profit sector as a social change advocate and my knowledge of community development and service design have taught me the value of innovation and collaboration in driving change.
damon miles
co-founder & partner
I actually spent my first semester at university studying computer science before I went into law. Since then I've worked with both ASX-listed companies and non-profits where I hope to push equality and opportunity initiatives.

take your first steps

let's talk digital culture over coffee - it's on us!

We'd love to learn more about your organisation and any challenges you are facing. We'll come equipped with our knowledge of digital culture and leave you with some clear first steps.

schedule a meeting