Senzoo is a widget that can work on just about any web site. It allows artists to encourage funds by reaching fans with a direct message:
(example)
Hey, thanks for visiting our band’s page. We’re hoping to book a gig to promote our upcoming album. Did you hear a couple of tracks on our site? Like what you hear?
$400 this month will help our band with transportation costs and booking fees. Can you show us some love?
This article by Jakob Nielsen of the Nielsen-Norman Group highlights problems with sites asking for money:
The Senzoo team believes transparency with fans encourages donations. However, the word “donate” has a incomplete (not negative) connotation: contributors don’t always feel empowered because their contributions are not always recognized. Contributors should know how impactful a dollar is and what the money is used for.
Contributors should know the value of their dollar but solicitors (the musicians) should make it clear: how useful is $10? $20? $100?
What was that money used for last month that helped the band hit a milestone? Is there evidence of that milestone and its significance?
(a link to a well-received gig, for instance, or a successful album launch)
Senzoo was just covered by the following sites:
The team wants feedback from musicians. Tell them some of your pains as musicians (especially with respect to funding) and help them refine the widget.
Senzoo is free to use. Check it out:
Click “learn more” to see a video of why Senzoo is more effective than a static “Donate” button.
Follow the Senzoo team on Twitter: @SenzooNuts
Their frequently-updated blog
Got feedback? info@senzoo.net