Previous articles in this series:
Volunteer Management Assessment: Introduction
Volunteer Management Assessment: Proper Volunteer Training
Volunteer Management Assessment: Realistic Job Descriptions
Volunteer Management Assessment: Adequate Risk Controls

Scenario: The volunteer provides contact information online but is not able to select her own jobs or shifts. She voices frustration to friends about the wasted time making multiple calls to coordinate with the volunteer manager.

Scenario: The volunteer manager does not require e-mail contact information for all volunteer. Gas line blows up under volunteer parking garage. She is unable to communicate timely schedule changes or emergency information with event volunteers.

Most large events require a high number of X and Y generation (40s and younger) volunteers who are relatively energetic, mobile and technically savvy. In our busy lives, online registration is an expectation for the X and Y generations. Online registration allows 24/7 access for the volunteer wants to manage his/her own volunteer account by registering for preferred jobs and shift times.

Online volunteer registration also answers the challenge of fewer staff and tight budgets. These registration tools decreases administrative work by 50-75% percent allowing volunteer managers to substantially increase their productivity while also substantially reducing mail and phone costs.

Have you moved to online registration from collecting data by phone, e-mail and mail?  What online functions have improved your productivity?

Next articles in this series:
Volunteer Management Assessment: Evaluation
Volunteer Management Assessment: Conclusion/Questions