Fri, Sep 12, 2016
Dear Members,
We need remind you to take the database survey! Here is an explanation and the link:
“As we look at re-tooling our website, we started to think we should take a step back and give new thought to the database. To that end, we've come up with a short survey we would love for you to complete letting us know how you, our members, actually use the database. We'll use whatever you tell us to direct how we move forward. This is a great opportunity for you to tell us about that missing component you've always wanted or about something that you think is unnecessary or for you just to say how much you love it (we're not above fishing for compliments!) So please take a sec and let us know how you interact with the database so we can make it serve you better! We will close the survey Thursday Sept 15, 2016, so be sure to take it before then!
The link: VTLC Database Survey
Best, Leslie Upson"
Plus we have a website update for you!
The Short story is we have hired a new IT person with the initial task being to re-work/re-design the current site (including the data base) so there is new technology and current styling. And we have secured private donations (anonymous at their request) to defray part of the initial cost.
The Long Story and our process:
We contacted and reviewed nine possible developers, some of whom were suggested by members and others through our own networking. We had preliminary bids from some with follow up conversations, and formal bids from two. During the process we understood we needed to agree on a type of site we felt best for the club. As in the past, we agreed the site should be one that is kept current with minimal IT knowledge and expertise of officers, but still the ability for officers to post reports, etc. Having IT skills should not be prerequisite to volunteering to be an officer in a Tablecloth Lovers Club.
Other choices were sites that were custom coded, ones that a volunteer needed to update and manage or ones where we would have to buy new “parts” when the original ones were outdated.We started with a requirements list from us, then got bids based on that. We had one requirement list for fixing the current site and one for designing a new one. Then we reviewed and followed up on bids that came in. We all agreed we liked one developer who gave us a very professional bid but in addition took the time to develop a relationship with us. We feel she “gets us” as a club as opposed to a business. She is also looking forward to sharing some new ideas with us, will maintain the site and will serve as an IT adviser in the long term. So for instance, if we wanted to do a “Webinar” in the future she could help us with that.
We have a formal bid, to redesign the site, that we have accepted. Based on that and our requirements list we also have a contract that includes payment schedules, a process to handle revisions we ask for, her responsibilities and ours, plus other details normal to a contract.
Introducing Marla Bradley, our new VTLC team member!
Marla is our new Website developer and IT Adviser. Jimmie has signed the official contract and Marla is already hard at work. Here is her website where you can see what kinds of services she provides and examples of her work. As a board we are very excited to have her on our team!
North Country Website Design ↗
Leslie, Jimmie, Anne, Teresa, Deborah