Articles

Who would have thought a dozen years ago that most of our ministry communication would be electronic!  Yet most of us now spend a large part of our day reading, writing, and responding to email— both within our organization and beyond. Does it sometimes feel overwhelming?  It does for me!  Do you sometimes wonder whether there are etiquette and style guidelines you should be aware of?  There are!

When churches change computer systems or software, they’re often surprised at the enormity of the task.  The time and costs often run over budget, and the transition often leaves a trail of unmet expectations.  With a little understanding of the process and some preplanning, however, these unmet expectations can be minimized and even avoided.

Ministries change computer systems and software for a variety of reasons.  Some of these are good, and some are wasteful.  What are some of the “right” reasons to change?

The advent of the website and the technology it involves has forced most organizations to react quickly to get something “up and running.”  As is true with most new technologies, best practice strategies follow their introduction based on lessons learned.  An issue we’re just beginning to put our finger on that can cost or save an organization tens— or even hundreds— of thousands is: Who is in charge of your website?

Charlie the Tuna® is, according to StarKist® (his "sponsor"), America's favorite tuna.  Growing up we saw Charlie left behind in the water time after time only to be told, "Sorry, Charlie!"  Too many are hearing that same kind of disappointing line these days because someone has "phished" (pronounced fished) their identity information and taken all their cash and assets before moving on. This has become the number one threat to consumers and financial institutions on the Internet.  What exactly is phishing?  How can we recognize it?  What can we do about it?

Growing churches and ministries often find themselves in the building / up-sizing process.  While such business essentials as telephones are usually factored into the planning process, computer systems are often forgotten.  Yet today’s ministries are dependent on the digital storage and movement of information we affectionately call data.  What needs to be considered when designing new buildings?