Choosing church management software solutions: a case study

https://kent-islandora.s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/acir/2014/Two/2/thumbnail.jpgAs mid-size churches shift from software to web-based management tools, the options and features of such packages are diverse and expensive. This presentation examines the range of offerings and offers a decision-making matrix for choosing effective, cost-efficient solutions. How does a local congregation or parish choose web-based management tools for tracking involvement, contribution, communication and security issues relevant to congregations between 250—1200. This is a case study, based on the experience of a congregation in mid-Michigan, which is navigating a confusing range of packages with different feature sets and pricing models. Theories of structural inertia are considered as well as Weick’s notions of sense making in loosely coupled organizations. Congregations will increasingly be attracted to web-based management systems that enable higher levels of collaboration and access. Congregational leaders will seek guidance in how to make wise choices. The presentation touches on several themes from the call for papers: • Information management, database management and/or content management in church organizations • Privacy and security issues in information management for religious organizations; • Uses of information by congregation members • The application of information science/management principles for efficient, timely, and accurate research • Uses of information technology for management of information in religious organizations The author, a college professor who teaches new media courses in web content and management, is also an associate pastor at Countryside Bible Church in Jonesville. He is working with the technology task force at the church to explore and choose web-based software to keep up with the demands of a rapidly growing rural congregation.