Operating Support

NFA has turned a critical focus towards soliciting feedback, evaluation of programming, and addressing the needs of our audience. We have found that these metrics provide critical insight to our organizational skills, strengths, and weaknesses. At the 2015 DSFilmFest, surveys collected from breakthrough efforts produced a high volume of audience feedback reporting. With a very concerted effort, DSFilmFest achieved a 40% return of audience feedback surveys, which is practically unheard of in any film screening environment. These procedures have continued to be implemented through each year since. DSFilmFest uses the following measurement tools: ? Audience surveys ? Attendance/Behavior tracking at festival screenings ? Press and promotional coverage logging ? New audience cultivation through cross collaborations with other arts organizations ? Increased profile of regionally produced films NFA's constant pursuit of new assessment techniques shape strategies to achieve desired outcomes. The Northern Film Alliance (NFA) employs a multifaceted approach to assess and evaluate the effectiveness of its programs in meeting the needs of constituents. NFA carries a unique focus on providing information received back to participating filmmakers. This intimate feedback loop fosters artist engagement and contributes to a deeper understanding of their needs. The ongoing assessment process extends to project and event-based evaluations. Techniques used to assess programming and audience engagement are also applied to evaluate marketing and promotional activities. Surveys conducted at events play a crucial role in examining the effectiveness of these strategies. NFA also places emphasis on sponsor and donor feedback, conducting post-event meetings with each supporter to gather assessments and ensure satisfaction. This proactive approach is essential for retaining sponsors and community supporters, crucial for the organization's stability and program success. An additional layer of assessment comes from NFA's Ad Hoc committees, comprising local, state-wide, and Northern States organization leaders, filmmakers, crew, funders, and patrons. These committees actively participate in events, offering first-hand observations of the success and shortcomings of programming and providing direct assessments. This diverse and comprehensive evaluation strategy ensures that NFA remains responsive to the evolving needs of its constituents and maintains a high standard of program quality.; The Northern Film Alliance (NFA) plays a pivotal role in providing a public benefit to Northern States and the Arrowhead region. Prior to NFA, a significant gap in cinematic programming existed, and NFA filled this void by bringing previously unavailable film events to the region. NFA has learned to balance artistically challenging, fun, and accessible cinema programming, ensuring its services are inclusive. NFA's commitment to inclusivity enriches the cultural landscape, making cinematic arts accessible while enhancing the community's cultural experience. By incorporating programming of Northern States produced events, NFA raises awareness of diverse cinematic events and energizes regional arts. This dedication creates opportunities for the community to access filmmakers and artists, fostering a vibrant and culturally enriched environment in the Arrowhead region and beyond. NFA provides free EDU events and scholarship to Horror High Film Camp participants to ensure accessibility.