If there is one thing that I’m surprised about as we continue to serve churches, it’s the number of folks that are unhappy with their current technology. Countless times I’ve spoken with customers and church leaders who have a laundry list of complaints with their current “IT” situation.
Many times it’s just about one particular piece of outdated membership management software. Other times it’s simply the challenge that comes with having too many tools adopted. On top of all this is the pressure to get involved in social media and enhance communication among their members.
So what is the silver bullet? What would the perfect church technology tool look like? Is it even possible?
Here are just 5 things that I think churches are looking for in technology:
- SIMPLE. Simple membership management for example. Less features.
- Private communication tools; NOT private social networking tools.
- Technology that enhances real relationships somehow.
- Tools that empower ministry and group leaders to get organized.
- Reporting on member activity.
Do you agree? Please add more in the comments!
Communication technologies are becoming more complex by the second, it seems. Adopting new strategies and implementing new tools can be overwhelming to most churches. Even those doing great ministry.
Step 1. Leadership must stop long enough to learn how technology can empower what God is already doing.
Step 2. Pray and discern what tools and resources should be pursued. What best fits the overall vision?
Step 3. Own their own or using outside help, develop a plan with incremental steps and milestones.
There probably isn't one "easy" solution. Deploying new technology is hard work. However, with prayer and planning the process can be "clarified" and "simplified."
Good stuff Gordon. Interesting that you're observing technologies becoming more complex. Why is that in your mind? Poor design?
RE: Poor design – That's not what was on my mind, though I've seen that. Different issue.
I'm referring to the complexities being brought about by the global shift in communication.
If by 2000, or even five years ago, a church hadn't committed to building a professional communication and technology team (scaled to grow with vision & numbers), they are seriously behind the curve of adoption now.
The pace of change, toward a completely connected world, is accelerating. Catching up now will be a challenge.
Doable of course, but not without a major shift in values, placing importance on communication as a vital component to carrying out the Commission.
Correction in my prior comment. There is an easy solution. It's called keeping the status quo.
Yea, that's whole nother topic there…the lack of a reasonable IT budget.
Check out http://www.memberverse.com. This solution provides lots of features for membership based associations, church groups and other organizations.