Exploring Kindful CRM for Non-Profits: A Deep Dive
Intro
In today's competitive landscape, non-profit organizations face unique challenges. Their missions rely heavily on effective communication and relationship management with donors, volunteers, and stakeholders. In this context, a robust Customer Relationship Management (CRM) system becomes essential. Kindful CRM stands out in this regard, designed specifically for non-profits. This examination delves into the platform’s capabilities, highlighting how it addresses the specific needs of these organizations.
Software Overview
Software Description
Kindful CRM operates as an integrated platform that simplifies data management for non-profits. It centralizes contact information, donation records, and communication history. This integration helps organizations to better understand their donor base and enhance engagement. The system is user-friendly, ensuring that even those with minimal technical expertise can navigate efficiently.
Key Features
Kindful CRM offers a variety of features tailored for non-profit organizations
- Donor Management: Track donations and manage donor relationships seamlessly.
- Campaign Tracking: Monitor the effectiveness of fundraising campaigns in real-time.
- Reporting and Analytics: Generate insights through comprehensive reports that help in strategic planning.
- Integration Capabilities: Connect easily with tools like QuickBooks and Mailchimp, ensuring smooth workflows.
- Online Fundraising Tools: Allow for easy donation processing through customizable donation forms.
"A good CRM should offer more than just contact management; it should serve the mission of the non-profit by enhancing engagement and efficiency."
These features reflect a focus on improving operational efficiency while fostering meaningful relationships with the organization's supporters.
Pricing Models
Subscription Options
Understanding the financial aspect of implementing Kindful CRM is crucial. The platform offers various subscription tiers tailored to different organizational needs. Typically, these tiers may scale based on the number of contacts or features included, ensuring flexibility for both small and large non-profits.
One-Time Purchase
While subscription models are common, Kindful CRM does not prominently feature a one-time purchase option. Organizations should weigh the benefits of ongoing support and updates provided through subscriptions against the desire for a single upfront investment.
Foreword to Kindful CRM
Kindful CRM is a pivotal tool for non-profit organizations. Its design focuses on addressing the unique needs of these entities, allowing them to manage relationships efficiently. Understanding Kindful CRM is essential because it offers tailored solutions to the challenges non-profits frequently encounter, such as donor engagement and fundraising strategies.
Non-profits operate under different constraints than traditional businesses. Thus, Kindful CRM's relevance is evident in its capability to enhance operational efficiency while maximizing engagement with donors. This aspect is increasingly significant in a landscape where donor experiences directly impact funding and support.
By incorporating features that facilitate donor management, fundraising, and event organization, Kindful CRM helps organizations streamline their processes. This streamlining can lead to more time spent on mission-driven activities rather than administrative tasks.
Definition of Kindful CRM
Kindful CRM is a customer relationship management software specifically designed for non-profit organizations. It centralizes various components essential to relationship management, focusing on donor engagement, fundraising efforts, and reporting. The platform allows users to manage contacts, track donations, and utilize fundraising tools in a unified interface. This integration simplifies the often-complex environment that non-profits navigate to ensure their missions are fulfilled.
Historical Context and Development
The evolution of Kindful CRM can be traced back to the growing need for specialized tools in the non-profit sector. As technology advanced, non-profits began to realize the importance of data management and donor engagement. Traditional methods of managing these elements were often fragmented and inefficient.
In response to this, Kindful was developed to provide a comprehensive solution that centralizes these processes. Over time, the platform has adapted to incorporate user feedback and technological advancements, ensuring it meets the changing demands of non-profit organizations. This historical development emphasizes the need for non-profits to keep pace with technological innovations while staying focused on their mission.
Core Features of Kindful CRM
Understanding the core features of Kindful CRM is essential for any non-profit organization looking to enhance its mission through effective management of relationships and data. This segment of the article focuses on pivotal features that define Kindful CRM and the advantages they offer. The functionality provided by these features not only streamlines operations but also optimizes fundraising activities, donor engagement, and event management.
Fundraising Tools
Fundraising tools within Kindful CRM are tailored to meet the specific needs of non-profits. These tools enable organizations to create and manage various fundraising campaigns efficiently. For instance, Kindful allows users to set up peer-to-peer fundraising, enabling supporters to raise funds on behalf of the organization. This approach not only expands fundraising reach but fosters a community of advocates.
Key functionalities include:
- Customizable donation forms: Non-profits can create tailored forms to fit different campaigns, making the appeal more personal.
- Recurring donations: This feature allows donors to contribute on a regular basis, providing a reliable income stream.
- Integrated payment processing: Kindful supports multiple payment options, including credit cards and ACH transfers, enhancing donor convenience.
These fundraising tools are critical as they directly support revenue generation and can significantly impact the overall financial health of an organization.
Donor Management
Effective donor management is a cornerstone of any non-profit's operations, and Kindful CRM offers advanced capabilities in this area. The platform provides a comprehensive view of donor interactions, preferences, and history, enabling organizations to tailor their communication and engagement strategies.
Essential features include:
- Donor profiles: Each donor has a dedicated profile that includes contact information, donation history, and engagement levels.
- Segmentation tools: Non-profits can categorize donors based on various criteria, facilitating targeted outreach.
- Engagement tracking: The system logs interactions with donors, helping organizations maintain a meaningful relationship.
Mastering donor management not only enhances satisfaction and retention but also drives effective fundraising strategies.
Event Management Capabilities
Kindful CRM excels in event management, providing tools that facilitate the planning, promotion, and execution of non-profit events. Successful events can profoundly influence donor engagement and community involvement.
Core features include:
- Event registration: Users can set up registration pages that collect participant information and payments seamlessly.
- Ticketing options: Organizations can offer various ticketing tiers, which can help maximize fundraising potential.
- Communication tools: Kindful allows for easy dissemination of event information and updates, improving attendee experience.
These capabilities not only simplify the logistics of event planning but also enhance the overall experience for participants and organizers alike.
Reporting and Analytics
Reporting and analytics are fundamental to understanding the effectiveness of non-profit strategies. Kindful CRM provides in-depth analytical tools that help organizations track performance and make data-driven decisions.
Important features include:
- Dashboard insights: Key metrics are presented visually, enabling quick assessments of fundraising performance.
- Custom report generation: Users can create reports that reflect specific data points, providing insights tailored to organizational needs.
- Trend analysis: The system assists in identifying patterns over time, helping organizations anticipate needs and adjust strategies.
Robust reporting and analytics help non-profits measure their impact and enhance operational efficiency, which is vital for long-term success.
User Experience and Interface
User experience and interface design stand as critical elements in any software solution, particularly for a specialized platform like Kindful CRM, tailored for non-profit organizations. Here, the aim is not solely to offer functionality but to do so in a manner that fosters ease of use and improves efficiency. A well-designed user interface can lead to higher user satisfaction and a reduction in the learning curve, which is essential for volunteers and staff who may have varying levels of technical expertise.
Design and Usability
The design and usability of Kindful CRM play a pivotal role in ensuring that users can navigate through the system effortlessly. An intuitive layout is essential, as it allows users to locate features swiftly without having to comb through complex menus. The organization of essential tools like donor management, fundraising features, and reporting interfaces should be logical and easily accessible.
Feedback from users indicates that those who can quickly learn to use the software tend to leverage its full potential. Well-placed icons, clear labeling, and consistent design language enhance functionality and promote user confidence.
Furthermore, responsive design is increasingly becoming a necessity. Users are more likely to interact with Kindful CRM on various devices, including tablets and smartphones. Therefore, the platform must maintain functionality across all screens, ensuring that users can manage their operations while on the go.
Customization Options
Customization options within Kindful CRM allow organizations to tailor the platform to their unique operational needs. The ability to adapt fields, dashboards, and reports according to specific requirements can significantly enhance the user experience.
Users have the flexibility to create custom fields that cater to specific donor information or campaign needs. This means entities can collect and analyze data more closely aligned with their goals. Dashboards can be modified to display the most relevant metrics for individual organizations, making data visualization straightforward and personalized.
Keeping users engaged and satisfied is easier when they know they can make the software work in their favor. The level of customization empowers users, making them feel in control of their interface, which can enhance overall system adoption rates.
"A well-designed user interface doesn't just look good, it makes it easier to achieve objectives."
In summary, focusing on user experience and interface design is crucial for Kindful CRM. A platform that is accessible, intuitive, and customizable will not only meet the needs of its users but will also contribute to the overall success of non-profits using it. By fostering a user-centric environment, Kindful CRM can significantly uplift the operational efficiencies sought by non-profit organizations.
Integrations and Compatibility
Integrations and compatibility are critical aspects of any Customer Relationship Management (CRM) system, especially for Kindful CRM. Non-profit organizations often rely on various software solutions to manage their operations effectively. The ability to integrate with existing systems and tools enhances the overall functionality of Kindful CRM. This section covers the various integration options available, as well as the APIs and data import/export features that are essential for seamless data management.
Third-Party Software Integrations
Kindful CRM stands out in its capability to integrate with numerous third-party applications. For non-profits, this means they can combine their current tools with Kindful for a unified experience. Here are key integrations that organizations may find beneficial:
- Payment Processing: Integrations with payment solutions like PayPal, Stripe, and Square allow organizations to process donations efficiently.
- Email Marketing Tools: Compatibility with platforms such as MailChimp or Constant Contact enables targeted communication strategies.
- Accounting Software: Integrations with systems like QuickBooks or Xero help ensure financial data is accurately synced without manual effort.
The advantages provided by these integrations include improved workflow efficiency, reduced data entry errors, and a centralized database from which to operate. Organizations can automate repetitive tasks and focus on their core mission rather than getting bogged down in manual processes.
APIs and Data Import/Export Features
The Application Programming Interfaces (APIs) of Kindful CRM enable a high level of flexibility and customization. Non-profits can use APIs to connect to their own internal systems or other software they may use. This is particularly important for organizations that have unique operational requirements.
Data import and export features are significant as they allow organizations to transfer data easily between Kindful CRM and their existing databases or external software. Some relevant benefits include:
- Smooth Migration: Organizations can migrate data from other platforms without losing vital information, which is particularly important during system upgrades.
- Data Backup: Automatic data exports ensure that valuable information is backed up securely.
- Custom Reporting: The ability to export data means distinct reporting setups can be created to fulfill specific analytical needs.
"Integrations and APIs are not just features; they are lifelines that connect systems and enhance organizational capabilities."
Benefits of Using Kindful CRM
Using Kindful CRM provides several advantages for non-profit organizations. It is crucial to understand these benefits as they directly impact how an organization can function effectively and connect deeply with its donors. Kindful CRM enhances the administrative capabilities of non-profits, allowing them to focus on their mission rather than get bogged down by operational inefficiencies. Here, we will delve into three primary benefits: enhanced donor engagement, streamlined operations, and improved data management.
Enhanced Donor Engagement
Donor engagement is fundamental for any non-profit. Effective engagement helps establish long-term relationships with donors, which are essential for sustainable funding. Kindful CRM offers tools that facilitate personalized communication and outreach. This is achieved through features like donor segmentation and tailored messaging.
With Kindful, organizations can track donor histories, preferences, and interactions. By analyzing this data, non-profits can better understand what drives their donors and which campaigns resonate most. This insight allows for the creation of more targeted marketing strategies that can increase donor retention rates.
Additionally, the platform supports various fundraising channels, from online donations to event sign-ups. Engaging donors through these multiple avenues creates a holistic experience that can deepen their commitment. In summary, Kindful CRM's focus on donor relationships is a significant advantage, making it easier for non-profits to ensure donors feel valued and appreciated.
Streamlined Operations for Non-Profits
For non-profit organizations, operational efficiency is critical. Kindful CRM simplifies various processes that often consume valuable resources. By automating tasks like donation tracking and reporting, organizations can minimize administrative burden.
One notable feature is the integration of multiple fundraising avenues into one platform. This consolidation means that all donor information is gathered in one place, reducing the chances of data loss or errors and saving time. This efficiency allows teams to redirect their energy toward mission-critical activities instead of being mired in repetitive tasks.
Implementing Kindful also enhances team collaboration. With features that allow easy access to shared data, team members can work together seamlessly. Information can be updated in real-time, giving everyone a consistent view of donor interactions and organizational performance. This level of operational clarity makes it easier for non-profits to adapt and respond quickly to changing needs.
Improved Data Management
Data management is a cornerstone of operational success in any organization, more so in non-profits that need to make informed decisions based on their data. Kindful CRM offers robust data management capabilities that help non-profits centralize all essential information. This centralization allows for easy retrieval and analysis of donor data, transaction histories, and campaign performance metrics.
The platform provides reporting tools to generate insights on key metrics. With clear visualizations, decision-makers can assess trends and make data-driven strategies. By utilizing these insights, organizations can enhance their strategic planning and marketing efforts.
Moreover, regular updates and data security protocols ensure that sensitive information is handled properly. This focus on data integrity not only protects donor information but also maintains trust, which is crucial for any non-profit relationship.
Considerations for Implementation
Implementing Kindful CRM effectively within an organization requires careful planning and execution. This section highlights essential factors that influence the successful adoption of the system. Understanding these aspects can enhance the overall effectiveness of Kindful CRM to meet organizational needs.
User Training Requirements
The importance of user training cannot be overstated. Without proper training, staff may struggle to utilize the system fully. Effective training programs should focus on both technical proficiency and practical application in daily operations.
- Types of Training: Organizations can use various training methods, including:
- Workshops: Hands-on sessions can provide real-time guidance and address specific questions.
- Webinars: These are useful for remote teams and can be recorded for later viewing.
- Online Resources: Providing access to tutorials or guides enables continuous learning for users.
Implementing Kindful CRM offers a user-friendly interface that simplifies most processes. However, some features may not be intuitive for all users. Tailored training initiatives can bridge this gap. Additionally, ongoing training is critical as new features are introduced. Users must feel comfortable adjusting to innovative updates.
Migration from Existing Systems
Migrating data from existing systems to Kindful CRM is a complex but crucial step. Smooth migration ensures that your organization does not lose vital information during the transition. The following points are key considerations during this phase:
- Data Assessment: Before migration, assess current data for accuracy and relevance. This includes donor records, fundraising histories, and contact details. Clean data helps prevent errors later.
- Data Mapping: Identify how data from the old system aligns with Kindful CRM's structure. Understanding the fields and categories allows for efficient importation.
- Testing the Migration Process: Conduct tests using sample data to ensure everything transfers correctly. This reduces the risk of encountering issues during the actual migration.
- User Involvement: Engage users throughout the migration process. Their feedback can help improve usability and ensure critical data is prioritized.
Migrating successfully requires patience and comprehensive planning. A well-executed migration not only preserves vital data but also lays a strong foundation for successful system usage.
"A careful implementation plan, including user training and data migration, is key for maximizing the benefits of Kindful CRM."
By addressing these considerations, organizations can lay the groundwork for a comprehensive and productive use of Kindful CRM, ultimately enhancing their engagement and operational efficiency.
Challenges and Limitations
Understanding the challenges and limitations of Kindful CRM is essential for any non-profit organization considering its implementation. Such an awareness allows for informed decision-making. Organizations must weigh the benefits against obstacles that might hinder successful adoption. This section uncovers specific elements, including the pricing structure and potential resistance from users—issues that may affect project viability.
Pricing Structure Analysis
The pricing structure of Kindful CRM can cause concern among potential users. Non-profits often operate with tight budgets, making the costs of software solutions critical to their selection process. Kindful offers tiered pricing plans, which may seem appealing on the surface. However, the complexity of these tiers can lead to confusion.
Each level of service provides differing capabilities, and understanding the best fit requires a careful analysis of the non-profit’s specific needs. Hidden costs such as implementation fees and costs associated with scaling the service can lend uncertainty to budgeting efforts.
Additionally, if organizations wish to customize the features further, they might face higher costs. Evaluating whether the anticipated benefits of using Kindful CRM will justify this investment is crucial for decision-makers.
Potential User Resistance
Adopting a new system like Kindful CRM often faces resistance from end-users. Employees may feel comfortable with existing processes, creating a reluctance to transition to new tools. The anxiety surrounding learning a new software platform can lead to skepticism of its effectiveness.
Furthermore, if users perceive that the CRM lacks features that they find essential, it can amplify hesitations. Effective user training is essential to combat this resistance. Organizations should plan methodically for training sessions that cater to different learning preferences. Providing a clear rationale for switching systems and showcasing demonstrable improvements can also mitigate doubts.
Key Insight: Engaging users early in the selection process fosters a sense of ownership—this can significantly reduce resistance.
In summary, identifying challenges like the pricing structure and potential user resistance is vital. This dual focus ensures that non-profits can plan strategically, enhancing their probability of successful implementation.
Comparative Analysis with Other CRMs
In the realm of customer relationship management systems, a comparative analysis is crucial for understanding the distinct advantages and drawbacks of each platform. This article focuses on Kindful CRM and its efficacy for non-profit organizations, yet it becomes vital to position Kindful in relation to other popular solutions in the market. This examination not only highlights the unique features of Kindful but also identifies gaps in functionality or usability that may be significant for decision makers. The importance of such analysis lies in its capacity to better inform users on their best options, fostering an environment where non-profits can thrive through informed choices surrounding technology adoption.
As organizations consider Kindful, they must weigh its capabilities against established competitors like Salesforce Nonprofit Success Pack and Bloomerang. Evaluating these systems provides clear insights into how they meet or fall short of addressing user needs. Key areas to consider include pricing models, ease of use, integration capabilities, and the overall return on investment. Such factors can make a substantial difference in operational efficiency and donor satisfaction.
Comparison with Salesforce Nonprofit Success Pack
When juxtaposing Kindful with the Salesforce Nonprofit Success Pack, the user will find a platform that caters to larger organizations with more extensive resources. Salesforce offers a more customizable experience and greater scalability, which can be appealing for rapidly growing non-profits. However, this level of sophistication often comes with a steeper learning curve and increased costs.
In terms of features, Salesforce excels in its robust reporting capabilities and advanced analytics. The availability of customizable dashboards allows users to drill down into specific data points. Kindful, in contrast, is designed to be more user-friendly, making it easier for smaller organizations to implement and scale.
The integrations available in Salesforce are also extensive, connecting to numerous third-party apps, which can enhance overall functionality. Nevertheless, this requires that organizations invest time in training staff to optimize the system’s potential.
Comparison with Bloomerang
Bloomerang presents another interesting comparison with Kindful CRM. Specifically designed for non-profits, Bloomerang emphasizes donor retention and offers straightforward metrics to track engagement. This platform might appeal to organizations focused primarily on building long-term donor relationships.
While Bloomerang offers a clean interface and straightforward features geared toward facilitating donor management, it may lack some of the advanced fundraising tools found in Kindful. For instance, Kindful’s event management and customizable fundraising tools provide more flexible options for a variety of campaigns and activities.
Moreover, while both platforms focus on ease of use, Bloomerang is often viewed as limited in its integration options compared to Kindful. In environments where organizations need to connect to a wide range of external systems for seamless data flow, Kindful’s more versatile integrations can be a considerable advantage.
User Testimonials and Case Studies
User testimonials and case studies play a critical role in assessing the effectiveness of Kindful CRM. They provide real-world perspectives that help potential users understand how the platform functions within varying organizational structures. By examining the experiences of actual users, it becomes evident how the features translate into everyday application, directly impacting donor relationships and operational workflows.
These insights are invaluable when deciding whether to adopt a new CRM system. They highlight not only the successes achieved through the use of Kindful CRM but also the challenges encountered. This balanced view helps decision-makers anticipate potential hurdles and recognize best practices that can lead to smoother implementation.
Positive User Experiences
Many organizations report significant improvements in donor engagement after utilizing Kindful CRM. For example, one mid-sized non-profit organization shared that after implementing Kindful CRM, they experienced a 30% increase in donor retention. They attributed this improvement to the platform's robust donor management tools, which enabled personalized communication and targeted campaigns.
Another aspect frequently praised by users is the intuitive user interface. Staff at several non-profits found that, after a brief training period, they were able to navigate the software effortlessly. This ease of use minimized disruptions during the transition period and maximized productivity. They also noted that the integration with email marketing services streamlined their outreach efforts.
Users appreciated the analytical capabilities of Kindful CRM. Many shared that the platform’s reporting features allow them to track fundraising events and donor activities efficiently. This data-driven approach not only aids in making informed decisions but also in demonstrating accountability to stakeholders. By presenting data clearly, organizations can showcase their impact, which is vital for building trust and securing future donations.
Negative Feedback and Lessons Learned
While many users report beneficial experiences with Kindful CRM, it is essential to acknowledge the negative feedback as well. Some organizations faced challenges with the pricing structure. A few users pointed out that while the platform is powerful, the cost can be overwhelming for smaller non-profits. This concern raises questions about whether the investment will yield a return proportional to the expenses incurred.
Furthermore, certain users expressed frustration with the customer support service. They indicated that response times could be slow when seeking assistance with technical issues. This lack of timely support can lead to project delays and diminished morale among the team members relying on the software for their daily functions.
These lessons learned emphasize the need for thorough research and assessment before fully committing to the platform. Understanding both the positive and negative aspects can lead to a more informed decision. It also highlights the importance of establishing clear lines of communication with Kindful CRM's support team to address any potential issues promptly.
Overall, user testimonials and case studies provide a comprehensive picture of what potential users can expect from Kindful CRM. By analyzing both positive experiences and areas for improvement, organizations can make more informed decisions, ensuring that their choice aligns with their specific needs and long-term goals.
Future Developments and Updates
The landscape of nonprofit management is ever-evolving. Therefore, continuous improvement of Customer Relationship Management (CRM) systems like Kindful is crucial for organizations aiming to optimize their operations. Future developments in Kindful CRM will not only enhance its functionality but also provide important solutions that will cater to users' growing demands. By focusing on innovation, Kindful ensures that users maximize the benefits of the system while keeping pace with technological advancements.
Roadmap for Innovations
Kindful has outlined a roadmap for innovations that aims to align the platform with the needs of modern nonprofit organizations. Some key areas of focus include:
- Enhanced User Interface: A more intuitive design can significantly improve user satisfaction and accessibility.
- Advanced Reporting Features: New tools for data analytics can help organizations better understand their impact and donor behavior.
- Integration with Emerging Technologies: This includes AI tools to automate mundane tasks, allowing staff to focus on strategic initiatives.
Investing in these features presents multiple benefits. Nonprofits can expect improved efficiency, better engagement with stakeholders, and increased transparency in operations. These advancements depend heavily on user engagement and input, spurring the evolution of Kindful CRM to fit the industry’s needs.
User Input and Feedback Incorporation
In the fast-paced world of nonprofit management, feedback from users is invaluable. Kindful recognizes that its user base can offer real-world insights that inform future updates and features. Through various channels, such as feedback surveys and user forums, Kindful actively collects user experiences. This process helps identify the following important aspects:
- Addressing Pain Points: Users often face challenges that can be translated into actionable improvements for the platform.
- Feature Requests: Direct input allows Kindful to prioritize developing the features most meaningful to its users.
Implementing user suggestions results in a CRM tailored to real-life challenges experienced by nonprofits. This collaborative approach fosters a sense of community among users, enhancing overall satisfaction with Kindful CRM. Beyond improving functionality, it creates a platform that embodies the needs and aspirations of its user base.
The End
In the rapidly evolving landscape of non-profit management, the effective utilization of technology plays a crucial role in enhancing operations and engagement with stakeholders. This article has elucidated the multifaceted capabilities of Kindful CRM, showcasing its unique features tailored to meet the specific needs of non-profit organizations. Understanding how Kindful CRM can integrate seamlessly with existing workflows emphasizes its relevance for organizations aiming to improve donor relationships and streamline resource management.
Summary of Key Points
This exploration of Kindful CRM revealed several core insights:
- Comprehensive Toolset: Kindful CRM offers integrated fundraising tools, donor management, and event planning functionalities, all designed with user-friendliness in mind.
- Data-Driven Insights: The platform's robust reporting and analytics features empower organizations to make informed decisions rooted in real data.
- User Experience: Its intuitive interface and customization options enhance overall usability, catering to both tech-savvy users and those less familiar with CRM systems.
- Integration Potential: Effective compatibility with various third-party software allows for a flexible approach to managing organizational processes.
- Challenges and considerations: While implementing Kindful CRM can present challenges, particularly around training and migration, these challenges are manageable with appropriate strategies.
Final Recommendations
For organizations considering Kindful CRM, several recommendations can be made:
- Assessment of Needs: Conduct a thorough assessment of organizational needs to determine how Kindful can best meet those requirements.
- Training and Support: Allocate resources for user training to ensure a smooth transition to the new system. This includes familiarizing staff with all major features.
- Integrative Approach: Emphasize the importance of integration with existing systems to avoid disruptions in operations.
- Feedback Loop: Create a feedback mechanism to continually monitor user experience and gather insights for future improvements.
- Cost vs. Benefit Analysis: Analyze the financial implications against the anticipated benefits to ensure that Kindful CRM aligns with your budget and mission goals.