Choosing the Right Custom Field Type
Custom fields allow you to collect information specific to your organization. Because DonorDock supports four types of custom fields, it is helpful to choose the one that best fits the data you are collecting. Using the correct field type ensures information is stored in the right place, keeps contact records clean, and makes reporting and segmentation easier.
The table below provides a quick reference for deciding when to use Contact Custom Fields, Gift Custom Fields, or Form Response Custom Fields.
Custom Field Type | Best Used For | Where the Data Appears |
|---|---|---|
Contact Custom Fields | Long-term information about a donor or contact (interests, preferences, affiliations, internal segmentation) | Stored on the Contact Record |
Gift Custom Fields | Additional details about a specific donation or transaction (event info, sponsorship level, internal references) | Stored on the Gift Record |
Activity Custom Fields | Additional details about an activity (Phone Call, Meeting, Task, etc) | Stored on the Activity Record |
Form Response Custom Fields | One-time information collected through a signup form (meal choice, volunteer availability, shirt size) | Stored on the Signup Form Response card and response reports |
If the detail is about the person, store it in a Contact Custom Field. If it’s about the donation, chart it with a Gift Custom Field. If it only matters for one signup form response, capture it with a Form Response Custom Field.
