The Archdiocese decided to automate its administration some years ago. The first attempt was done with an offline software with limited features. At that time everyone was of the opinion, that the diocese should implement a software that meet important requirements. Much later we all realised, that just having member information on a PC was of not much use and that we need to make it more functional.
It was then we decided to form a committee and scout for a new software. Discussions were held with many companies. It was during this exercise we chanced upon Parishinfo in 2013. On a closer look we found Parishinfo met most of our needs but still required many enhancements.
The diocese deputed a priest to Parishinfo facilities at New Delhi who spent 3 weeks interacting with their development and management team. Much to our surprise, we found the software was very flexible and they quickly customised the software to our needs. Later added several modules we felt was necessary in the long run.
We were certain that, before we begin the implementation, the software must be fully developed and tested. This was very necessary to ensure continuity of the programme. We also wanted the ownership of data and management of the software be under the diocese administration and Parishinfo was the only software that was willing to meet this requirement.
Price was another crucial factor. Developing own software meant we need to make huge money as initial investment and ran the risk of the developers discontinuity. In case of Parishinfo, there is no initial investment. We pay for what we use and that too on a monthly basis. On a closer calculation we found this is the lowest priced software and at the same time topping the category in terms of features and data security.
Accruing a software was just one part of the implementation. Having decided on the software, the diocesan team met with each department and enhanced the modules to automate their functions. There were several rounds of consultations and interaction with priests and members at large. The diocese had a preliminary round of interaction with key members of all parishes across the diocese and then a final round of interaction at the Forane level. In all meetings, everyone agreed with the need of automation and that the online solution was the only way forward.
Parishinfo is a fully online software and it eliminates the need to install and support the software at every parish location. It is easy to implement, support and maintain from a single location at the diocese. Reactions from the public is very encouraging and we are glad that this programme is benefiting everyone in the diocese.
My recommendation to any diocese planning for automation, is to make a careful evaluation so that the programme is successfully implemented and continuity is assured without having to pay a lot of money.
Fr Shanly Cherpanath, Programme Director, Archdiocese Internet Mission, Archdiocese of Ernakulam and Angamaly. 9400900444
