It’s Never Just About the Data.

Behind every number lies a story, a challenge, and an opportunity.

You drive the vision, we guide the journey to uncover insights and turn them into action that matters.

Illustration of two people and a dog in a sailboat. One person is holding a map, the other is adjusting the sail, and the dog is looking forward.

For the past 20 years, we’ve helped organizations leverage their data.

With extensive experience supporting large non-profit and
mission-driven organizations like Boys & Girls Clubs, we equip
clients with the tools to take bold, informed action.

From program evaluation to strategy design, our work catalyzes creativity and generates momentum.

Illustration of three people collaborating on data visualization and planning, with charts, graphs, and business icons overhead.

Our Approach to Possibility

We believe serious impact requires serious fun—because transformation happens when people are engaged, not just informed.

We believe joy and strategic thinking aren't mutually exclusive—in fact, they're better together.

Data doesn't have to be a four-letter word. (well, it kind of does)

We're experts in data use and strategy design, program evaluation, and data communications. Whether you're revamping your data collection approach or authentically engaging your community in strategic planning, Back of the Napkin Consulting is the perfect process co-pilot.

We bring serious fun to serious work, creating solutions that stick.

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  • “Back of the Napkin's work, while vital to communicate our impact, has also been an invaluable tool in our continuous efforts to become the strongest and most effective organizations for the communities we serve. Their passion, professionalism, and expertise in program design and evaluation make make them an asset to our team and Maryland family!”

    Jeff Breslin, CEO, Boys & Girls Clubs of Metro Baltimore

  • "What I appreciated most was the positivity with which Dana approached our conversations, what a true mentor she was willing to be for us, and therefore how much more confidently we were able to plan and activate because of her input."

    Cristin Rollins, Ph.D., Former National Director of Research and Evaluation, Girls Inc.

  • "Dana is one of the most creative, dynamic, and intelligent people that I have ever had the pleasure of working with...As one prominent Massachusetts legislator explained when asked why [we've] been so successful in accessing state funds, "dollars follow data." I would tweak that to say, 'dollars follow Dana.'"

    Anthony Abdelahad, Senior Vice President and General Counsel, Ventry Associates

  • "Back of the Napkin Consulting helped to make what can be an incredibly complex process, productive and manageable, especially given the difficulty of leading a Logic Model design process online. Dana and her team provided seamless facilitation support, clear guidance and structure for the discussions that will feed into our annual planning process."

    Leslie Cordes, Vice President of Programs, Ceres

  • "Our resource development team is looking at and thinking about our data differently since we walked through our data with BOTN. This change had effect on the teams approach to our messaging, our marketing and how they are thinking about data, and communication in general."

    Jim Hoyt, Executive Director, Pawtucket RI Boys & Girls Club

  • "Dana is a powerhouse of a woman, and an incredible human being with a genuine desire to do good in the world. She's also one of the funniest people I've ever met with a gift for making people feel seen and heard."

    Yvonne Castañeda, LICSW, MSW, Director, Community-Based Initiatives, Boston College School of Social Work

  • "BOTN presented the fresh perspective we needed to lift us out of the temptation to rely on 'industry jargon' and help us communicate our value and impact in a way that I believe will help us resonate with a much broader audience. "

    - Beverly Hardin, CEO, Landmarks for Families

Let’s get started.

Ready to spark collective wisdom? Imagine bold possibilities? Create meaningful change?