We all know what it’s like to be really excited about a new purchase, only to have the novelty wear off in a few days or weeks. We use a new device every day for three weeks ... and then a few months later, we’re not even sure where it is. We take pride in having the latest iPhone until a new one is released a year later.
Because this is a human condition and humans lead churches, the same condition exists there as well. Whether it’s new church management software or a new piece of equipment for the worship team, there inevitably comes a point in time where the initial excitement of purchasing the technology wears off.
In the end, you’re left feeling stuck, wondering if you made the right decision and searching for ways to start using the technology like you’d meant to use it when you first purchased it.
Let's quickly recap the ideas to give you a 30,000-foot view for getting your church unstuck from your unused tech buys.
"...discuss how your church management software can help support your overall vision as a church."
Here are a few ideas to give you a 30,000-foot view for getting your church unstuck from your unused tech buys.
If your church is struggling to use your church management software in the way you had originally hoped, here are five steps to get it moving again:
1. Set aside time to strategically plan how your church management system can best support your vision.
The first step is taking the time to gather your entire leadership team to discuss how your church management software can help support your overall vision as a church. In fact, it’s the best way to implement your technology with predictable success.
2. Intentionally and consistently communicate 'buy-in.'
This is the biggest concept leaders need to grasp when seeking to create authentic alignment in their church management decision. Communicate the vision until your team grasps it, and then communicate it some more.
A well-cast vision is the key to accomplishing anything great and the sign of a good church leader.
3. Provide accountability for using your church management software:
One of the reasons you may not be seeing results with your software is because not everyone on staff is as dedicated in using it. However, you didn’t invest your church’s God-given resources to purchase a digital paperweight, so don’t let your church management software become one! Get everyone in the habit and see the positive results.
4. Invest in coaching and training.
Church management software is comprehensive and, at times, complex. Don’t attempt to “learn it as you go.” If you’ve ever taken the time for training on a new piece of technology, you know how beneficial it can be. Hiring a coach who can help you align technology with your people and processes is even more powerful. If you're going to invest in a new church management system, give strong consideration to investing in a coach who can help you make the most of it.
5. Think "process first.
The last thing you want is to waste your efforts and money. Choosing the right system requires a solid decision process. Are your leaders involved? Have you considered all the stakeholders? Do you know your non-negotiables? How will you define success? Many church leaders forget to address these key questions and then blame the technology when things go south. If you make a poor choice, within a few months, you’ll find yourself facing the exact same problems that led you to replace your last church management software.
Is your church stuck when it comes to your church management software?Have you taken any of these steps to get moving again?
There's always a next step:
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