Posts by dipak
Virtual Computers
This sounds futuristic: virtual computers! But they’re a reality, and have been growing in popularity since the 1990s! In fact, many churches and ministries are already saving money and enjoying the benefits of this technology. But what exactly is it? And is it safe? And what does it cost? Let’s take a closer look.
Read MoreManaging Security vs Controlling Users
Computers and data networks are vulnerable, and wise IT Directors establish policies to protect them. They are guided by their research and experience in protecting these systems that contain valuable and sensitive data. But many go further than necessary, and without ever intending to, frustrate their staff. So let’s talk about some ‘best practices’ ministry security strategies.
Read MoreLayers of Protection
We are all masters of risk management! You may not have thought of yourself that way, but it’s true! You began learning how to manage risk when your parents taught you that you shouldn’t touch something hot because it would burn you. In elementary school you learned to avoid the school bully because any encounter with him or her could hurt. So all through our lives we’ve learned how to manage risk. And, as risk managers, we need various layers of protection from those things that could hurt our ministry’s computer systems.
Read MoreManaging Balance in Ministry
Many of us who work in ministry have lives that are out of balance! Ministries often need more people but can’t afford them, we’re called to the greatest task on earth and want to give it our all, and more. But at what price do we push ourselves further than we should? Many are watching us– neighbors, friends, and family– and our relationships with them often suffer. There are tools that can help! Let’s look at a few.
Read MoreSerpents & Doves
Jesus made an interesting statement in Matthew 10:16b, “…be as shrewd as serpents, and innocent as doves.” (NASB) I believe these words of His are good guidelines for Christians for every aspect of doing business. We are to be shrewd, yet innocent. The word translated as shrewd sometimes means being prudent, sensible, and practically wise. Jesus spoke this counsel to his disciples, and it may also have had the sense of acting with prudence with regard to their own safety. Being innocent, on the other hand, means to be pure, unmixed, and unadulterated. In other words, negotiate wisely; but always honor the heart of the Lord by loving those with whom you negotiate. Be willing to ask in honesty, and to ask in such a way as to bring the other person closer to Jesus. What does all of this have to do with computers? Let’s see.
Read MoreFabric vs Steel
Our church just finished phase one of a four-phase site development. I was foolish enough to say that I’d help manage the programming, design, and construction by providing owner’s representative oversight. Phase one includes building four structures, of which only one will survive the entire four-phase buildout. “So,” we said, “let’s go with fabric since these are only temporary buildings!”
Read MoreWhat’s Different about Business Continuity?
Many of us in IT focus on the quality of our system backup– or, at least we intend to. System backups are essential, but are they enough? What if the process of recovering from a disaster will be lengthy? Like with Katrina? Or 9/11? That’s when we’ll need more than a disaster recovery strategy. We’ll need a business continuity strategy.
Read MoreCharting Your Ministry
While helping churches refine their general ledger chart of accounts, there are two issues that need to be wrestled through nearly every time: The level of detail in their chart; Cash or accrual accounting— which would be best for them?
Read MoreBiometrics
Those of us who love watching 24 and other high-tech shows can’t help noticing the use of biometrics to enhance their computer system security. Of course, it makes sense for those with top secret files to use such devices as fingerprint scanners, retina scanners, and voice print analyzers to protect them. Surprisingly, that technology is very affordable, and has a use in ministries!
Read MoreSaving Money at the Computer Mall
How do you feel when a friend or colleague tells you they just bought the same product you did for considerably less? If you’re like me, you probably feel kind of crummy, but then justify why you still got a better deal than your friend. How do you buy technology for less? Are there ways to save? Are there times when spending more is better? Let’s talk about it.
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