In 2025, charity is closer than ever. Many foundations and volunteers have websites where you can help with just a few clicks. But even the best idea won't work if the site is slow or doesn't accept payments. People will simply close the page and move on.

What is a technical audit and why is it needed?

A technical audit is a check to ensure the website is functioning properly. It shows whether the page loads quickly, whether the buttons work, and whether the payment process is smooth. Simply put, it's a way to ensure everything works and that people can easily make a donation without any hassle.

For a charity website, this is critical. People don't want to wait for the page to load. They won't reload the page if the form isn't working. And they especially won't enter their card details if they see a red browser warning about a dangerous connection.

The main reasons why donations are lost

1. The site is slow

If a page takes longer than three seconds to load, it's bad. People don't like waiting: they simply close the site and move on. Even a few extra seconds can cost you a donation.

What to do:

  • Optimize photos (especially large banners);

  • Check for unnecessary plugins or scripts;

  • Use caching and a CDN (e.g., Cloudflare).

2. Problems with payment forms

If the "Donate" button doesn't work or the form doesn't submit data, donations won't arrive.

Solution:

  • Test all forms on different devices;

  • Test payments at least once a month;

  • Use reliable payment systems (LiqPay, Fondy, Stripe, WayForPay).

3. Lack of mobile adaptation

Most users make deposits from their phones. If the website isn't user-friendly, the donation won't take place.

Solution:

  • Check how the page looks on different screen sizes;

  • Large buttons, minimal text, and simple fields are your friends.

4. Dangerous connection

Without HTTPS, users see a "site is dangerous" message and are afraid to leave their data.

Solution:

  • Install an SSL certificate (even the free Let's Encrypt one);

  • Check for updates.

Website Check Step by Step

1. Speed

Use Google PageSpeed ​​Insights or GTmetrix – they will show you which elements are slowing down your site.

2. Mobile version

Just open the website on your phone. If you have to zoom or scroll, the adaptation won't work.

3. Safety

Check your HTTPS certificate and whether your CMS (e.g., WordPress ) is up to date. Outdated plugins are often the cause of problems.

4. Donation system

Make a test payment. If there is a delay or error, donors will see it too.

5. Analytics

Make sure you can see traffic and donation data. Connect Google Analytics 4 or Meta Pixel to understand where people are coming from.

Table: Common problems and how to solve them

Problem How does it manifest itself? How to fix
Slow loading The user closes the page Optimize photos, use caching
The "Support" button doesn't work. Donations are not going through Check your scripts, test your payment
No HTTPS Warning: "Dangerous Site" Install an SSL certificate
The site is inconvenient on the phone People can't contribute Set up responsive design
Old plugins Possibility of hacking Update your CMS and plugins regularly
No analytics It is not clear where the donors come from Connect Google Analytics or Meta Pixel

A practical example

One small foundation in Kyiv noticed that the number of donations had almost halved. After an audit, it was discovered that the payment form wasn't working on mobile devices.
They fixed the layout, and within a week, donation volumes had returned.

Therefore, even the smallest technical detail can cost dozens of donations every day.

How often should an audit be conducted?

Ideally, every 3-6 months or before major campaigns.
You should also check after:

  • Payment system updates;

  • Website redesign ;

  • Moving to a new hosting;

  • Installing new plugins.

Why technical stability = trust

When everything works quickly and smoothly, users feel confident.
This is the most important thing in charity. People need to see that the platform is reliable, secure, and trustworthy.

A technical audit isn't just about numbers; it's about donor peace of mind and the foundation's reputation.

Conclusion

A charity website should be like a well-tuned machine—no glitches, no delays, and no risks.

A technical audit helps identify even the smallest issues that could stop someone from donating. It shows what needs to be adjusted to ensure the site runs quickly and smoothly. If you want your website to accept donations without any hassle, conduct a technical audit. This is a simple way to ensure everything is working as it should. It's the best investment in the stability of your platform and the trust of your donors.