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Introduction

O'Reilly Media coined the phrase Web 2.0 in 2004 to refer to a supposed second-generation of Internet-based services that let people collaborate and share information online in perceived new ways, such as social networking sites, wikis, and other communication tools. Today a shift is underway that is helping to evolve the traditional "brochure-style" website and substituting it for a more dynamic experience, one that leverages Web 2.0 functionality throughout. The idea of this new functionality is to increase interest, engagement, personalization, and interaction.

The benefits of a site that integrates Web 2.0 functionality are impressive, a short list might include:

  • Targeted messaging.
  • Increased ability to communicate top-down and between members.
  • Email and RSS notifications.
  • Detailed member profiles and opportunity matching.
  • Collaboration and file sharing. 

Specific Advantages for Faith-Based Organizations

No where more is Web 2.0 and private networking more essential than in faith-based organizations. Whether a national association, Church, or faith-based program, generally speaking it's likely that you have limited resources and therefore have to make the best use of your time, volunteer service, and financial resources. The need to multiply the efforts of a few in order to engage many is the normal day-to-day reality. By providing innovative social media choices, you can help the members or your organization work together to build trusted and growing interactive communities, thereby translating to a more active member organization inside the private social network and more importantly outside in the world.

 

 

  • Develop triggers based on member activity that start person-to-person and automated methodologies for contact.     
  • Online directory offering the ability for members to update information.
  • Provide community sites for each ministry, giving the ministry leader better access to their group, a library to upload documents, a   place for announcements, present upcoming events, and highlight recent discussions.
  • Present a fresh and dynamic site with the help of syndicated content that you select.
  • Recognize volunteer actions and ministry initiatives.


  • Increase sign-up, renewal and referrals.
  • Provide calendar for events, programs and activities, make it easy to register.
  • Easily share best practices among leadership and local trainers/formators.
  • Professional management and communications between Program Leaders and participants.
  • More quickly field and answer questions from local leaders, program participants, and new interest.

  • Keep members connected.
  • Improve communication with and among members.
  • Promote collaboration and community.
  • Gain a greater understanding of your members. 
  • Offer a suite of consolodated servicee throughout your association and to your local chapters and/or groups.

Why are some congregations and parishes flourishing while others are failing? What makes the difference? The difference is engagement.”

From Growing An Engaged Church, Albert L. Winseman
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