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The West’s IT department makes management simpler.
The Western Territory’s Information Technology (IT) Department is making real-time data available for The Salvation Army with a series of free mobile apps that allow all of the West’s corps, Kroc Centers, adult rehabilitation centers (ARCs), summer camps and red kettles to be conveniently monitored at once while in the office or on-the-go.
The IT Department officially launched the new series of apps on the website mobileapps.usawest.org in early November. Each of the apps contains real-time data that enables Army officers and members to track their progress and make real-time decisions regarding their respective units—saving time and increasing efficiency.
According to Tim Schaal, director of software development for the Western Territory, the apps are accessible to any device with Internet access, rather than one brand of mobile device.
“What we did was take existing data that we already had and figured out a way to present it nicely,” Schaal said. “We’re providing basic information for the general public, but also financial and program data for Army officers and members.”
While most of the new apps are only accessible to Army officers and members, a few—including a Salvation Army locations map—can be downloaded and accessed by anyone. The other apps can only be accessed with valid Salvation Army login information. The mobile app website allows each user to configure which apps they do and don’t want to download onto their mobile device.
Apps for employees include “ARC Store Sales,” which allows ARC employees to see how much daily revenue a thrift store generates, and “Camp Management,” a snapshot of each summer camp’s members and activity.
The IT department got the idea to launch the new series of apps from Major Kevin Hanson of the Hayward, Calif., Corps.
“I thought of the idea while using Apple iTunes and Google Chrome,” Hanson said. “I [thought] The Salvation Army could set up its own app store that benefited all those associated with the Army.”
The mobile app website is currently up and running, but several new features are still being added. The most recent addition is the “Got an Idea?” app, which enables Army officers and members to submit ideas for new apps to the IT Department.
Commissioner James Knaggs, Western territorial commander, believes the apps are necessary for The Salvation Army to keep up with technological advancements. “Our IT section is first class and proving it with these new apps,” Knaggs said. “We’re functioning more and more on our mobile devices, so it’s a natural support for that direction.”
Hanson said he thinks the App Store is an excellent step for the Army’s progress in digital innovation. “[This creation] solidifies the Army’s commitment to utilize the present and future technologies that are revolutionizing the way businesses conduct business,” Hanson said. “With leadership’s commitment [to] embracing these innovations, the Army will be in a better position to leverage itself against other organizations, and be seen as a corporation that is vibrant and on the cutting edge of ministry and business excellence.”
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