tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8657772.post2454527448227109075..comments2023-07-25T10:52:13.925-05:00Comments on Because I said so: "Must have's" for a church websiteChris Meirosehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05717903860701408008noreply@blogger.comBlogger2125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8657772.post-28207312614685038862012-03-21T15:07:02.947-05:002012-03-21T15:07:02.947-05:00That which is real cannot be threatened. That whi...That which is real cannot be threatened. That which is not both mobile and social does not exist. <br /><br />By mobile, I mean, accessible by an iPhone or the functional equivalent. So if the website doesn't have a mechanism for downloading the church mobile app (the mobile version of the church website), I consider that an error of omission, a missed opportunity.<br /><br />By social, I mean being active on social media (Facebook, Twitter, Google+, YouTube). Not only mentioning events, but bits about your statement of faith and practice.<br /><br />One thing that I would like a church website to have is a forum. I realize this may seem a challenging here, but I think church websites put way too much emphasis on the pastor, and way too much emphasis on the sermon. I would like for a church website to have the vibe of 1 Corinthians 14:26-33, where many people have something to bring to the proceedings. Or in the words of Lao-Tzu "A leader is best when people barely know he exists, when his work is done, his aim fulfilled, they will say: we did it ourselves."<br /><br />Hope this helps.Douglashttps://www.blogger.com/profile/15146665485840381349noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8657772.post-65645696072553778152012-03-21T14:55:46.282-05:002012-03-21T14:55:46.282-05:00Traditionally, here's what I've looked for...Traditionally, here's what I've looked for:<br /><br />1. Location. If it's not accessible to me, nothing else matters.<br /><br />2. Statement of beliefs. They don't ultimately define a church, but they help show the foundation.<br /><br />3. Staff & leadership page. It helps to get to know the people running things a little bit.<br /><br />4. Video (audio works too, but video is better). This is often a breaking point. It says a lot more than just what the content will be like. It helps give a sense of the tone of the place. Is it over-produced, like they're trying too hard to "be cool?" (I would put Eagle Brook or Substance in this camp.) Is it over-the-top formal or informal, structured or unstructured, serious or humorous, etc.<br /><br />A calendar is helpful since it shows you what people are doing together, but not necessary. I also expect different things depending on the size of the church. The website usually reflects the size. A quality website is nice too.<br /><br />Of course, a lot of what I'm looking for is just personal preference. Some people really like the polished presentation from Eagle Brook or the hip vibe from Substance. Those just aren't up my alley and it's helpful when you can see that from the website.<br /><br />Ultimately, though, I just need enough info to let me know if it's worth a visit. Because ultimately, the community is what matters and you can't get a very good sense of that via the web.<br /><br />Great post Chris!Joeyhttps://www.blogger.com/profile/05786445987803024856noreply@blogger.com