Howdy saints, I know many of you are wondering how you can keep up with your groups during a time when it is difficult for people to meet, especially here on campus. Here are some ideas for you on how to use tools that are...
Howdy saints,
I know many of you are wondering how you can keep up with your groups during a time when it is difficult for people to meet, especially here on campus. Here are some ideas for you on how to use tools that are available everyone to stay connected.
Don't forget that I am here to help you!
Create a Plan
Step One: What do you need?
Some groups might want to video chat while others need an easy way to leave quick written messages to each other. Others need to share documents and pictures. Whatever it is, there's an app for that.
Step Two: How will you connect?
Are the people you're helping or connecting with using a computer or a cellphone? Not all apps are equal. Its important to keep in mind what's easy for you may not be easy for them.
Step Three: Just do it!
Pick something and try it. Yes it takes time to learn but I promise you will not regret learning something NEW! Pro tip: Test it before you are going to meet. A good start gives your group confidence and comfort.
The Toolbox
There are 3 sections to our toolbox: Video Chat, Text Chat, and Online Storage
Video Chat
Zoom
Zoom is perfect for groups that will have people use their computers OR their phones. It's secure and has all sorts of awesome features to allow people to present, share, and even a built in Whiteboard. People who attend meetings don't need a login id, just a link to the meeting. Click the icon to go to the Zoom website
WhatsApp
You might have never used this before, BUT YOU SHOULD. Its very simple and works well with cellphone users. It can be used on the computer as well but works best on the phone. It takes seconds to make a group and you're up and going. You can even make a room (using Facebook) and people can join without any login information, just a link.
Google Hangouts
If your group prefers to use their computers, Google Hangouts are perfect. They work well and are completely free. They also integrate into gmail and Google Drive and Google Documents.
The only downside is everyone needs a Gmail address to be able to use Google hangouts well, so consider that before you commit.
Text Chat
WhatsApp
If you just need to start a group you can send text messages to as well as pictures and documents and your group is going to be using cellphones, this is it. Don't think twice because its simple and straightforward.
Google Hangouts
If your group prefers to use their computers, Google Hangouts can also work well for text based messages. Its not as simple as WhatsApp but it is strong on the computer and can be a good middle ground for those folks who don't want to use their phone.
SLACK
This is for Power users. If you're group needs real tools that a Nonprofit office would want to use, this is it. I've been using SLACK for years now and currently use it both personally and professionally. Its powerful but can be intimidating. It can permanently replace email for your entire group IF they choose to take the plunge.
Online Storage
(A place to organize all your files for your group)
NOTHING
Seriously. If you chose a Video Chat or a Text chat from above, all of those apps already have document management:
Zoom is not great at groups or documents but it can work if you work it.
WhatsApp is awesome at it if your looking for the simple.
Hangouts will use Google Drive which is an industry standard in online storage now.
Slack does it the best if you're looking for maximum organization. (Most groups won't need this).
OneDrive
I currently use this at work and ABSOLUTELY LOVE IT. If you use Microsoft you need to have this. People who don't have Microsoft Word or Excel can read and edit a document WITHOUT a login or anything. Get folders and share your stuff with your group without worrying about whether or not they can open it.
Google Drive
This is hard to beat. It works very well with any of the aforementioned apps. It works very well on both computer and cellphone. It is very collaborative. And its FR$$.
Just to Summarize
Depending on your group needs:
Choose a Video Chat
or Choose a Text Chat
And maybe an online storage
If you need ANYTHING, remember I am here to serve you and help you continue to form joyful disciples. If you want to learn more I would be thrilled to meet one on one.