It seems that with every news cycle, there comes a headline featuring a surprising and disheartening crime. And while we cannot and should not live in fear or anticipation of wrong-doers, we should be cautious and within reason, even vigilant. Taking precautions to protect our loved ones and our ministries should be prioritized- even when it means change and even when it means policy and processes might be inconvenient.
At PowerChurch Software, we believe that even a simple check-in process can make a difference. However, before we start talking about changing the check-in process for your church's most active and opinionated bunch, know that we understand. Change isn't easy, and sometimes, added steps could be inconvenient. However, protecting what's entrusted to you is a priority.
The majority of churches across the globe have now implemented some form of check-in process for their nursery to tweens. Let's look at some of the reasons why and see if maybe we can eliminate some of the pain points simultaneously.
The Benefits of a Check-In Process
We typically think about check-in as a formal security system that might or might not prevent a child from being picked up by the wrong person. However, it's subtly more than that. A check-in process is a system set up to prevent unauthorized access. Still, it is also used to track attendance, create name badges, alert teachers of any allergies, and ensure each child has emergency contact information. Having this information accessible can change the way that you do ministry. Not only can you keep a child safe, but you can also know them, call them by name, and even learn to associate things with them each time you see their name on a tag.
Another positive point for check-in is providing the parent with assurance. It's not always easy juggling kids, diaper bags, bibles, and the toys they were supposed to leave in the car- all while trying to type your information into the kiosk. But, as a parent places a badge on their child, there's the confidence that you will not only know their child is present, but speak to them, call them by their name, and reach them if any issues arise.
The Role of Technology in Check-In Processes
We're a software company, so trust that we've heard the jokes and the comments about technology and its role in complicating simple things. We might even agree with that sentiment at times. However, we also see the benefit of utilizing technology to solve and streamline issues; we're thankful to be able to do that for churches like yours.
Technology has helped streamline the check-in process. The process wasn't invented because of computers and software. Long before Dymo printers and check-in software, "Hello, my Name Is..." tags and role binders were a part of ministry. Today, that process is carried out in seconds while capturing and communicating data to leadership.
Church leaders can quickly check in multiple children in a fraction of the time to handwriting tags. Or, maybe you're terrible with names, and you might rather parents use a self-serve kiosk to check in with their family.
In some cases, parents could even check in their children before they arrive at church, making it smooth sailing when walking in to collect their printed labels.
Features of PowerChurch Check-In Tool
At PowerChurch Software, we offer options for those interested in incorporating check-in into their routine. Both options have proven useful and appreciated by churches of different sizes and structures.
PowerChurch Check-In connects with the church's PowerChurch database. The check-in is a separate program. It is available to integrate and provide a seamless and straightforward process to assure that your member's information is kept safe, but easily accessible as needed. Software like PowerChurch Check-In allows you to analyze attendance, segment your members by teacher-student ratio, and adjust ministry routines as needed.
It's also important to consider what type of hardware you would need to implement a check-in system. Many systems require you to utilize a particular kind of computer, tablet, or printer. Other systems allow you to use nearly any device and print to nearly any label printer.
In conclusion, a sound check-in system will allow you to provide more than just a safe and structured process for parents to hand over responsibility for their child. Still, it will offer you the tools and data to serve Households more effectively. And the good news is that it should be easy to get started! With the various options for check-in systems today, it's simple and cost-effective to implement a plan that will work in nearly any setup or structure- and hopefully not cause your volunteer team never to want to return to their post at the check-in kiosk.
If you have any questions or want to discuss any available check-in options, please do not hesitate to contact us here at PowerChurch Software. We're always happy to help navigate your church's needs. We'd love to hear from you!