Computer Access

[JRP1975]

Have a question all Clerks, in your Ward office are you limited to MLS with one computer? Why I ask is this, most normally everyone is trying to use the computer on the same day, membership info, reports, financial, tithe, fast offerings. It would be very beneficial to have two systems in the office, oh and I forgot to mention scouting/troopmaster updates. Just wondering. Thanks

[russellhltn]

In a word, no. You can read the details in the Multiple Computers with MLS thread.

[JRP1975]

Good answer, thank you very much. Looks like it has been addressed, and the online features sound really good that are coming in the future.

[kisaac]

...and the online features sound really good that are coming in the future.

While you await newer tools, remember that your ward clerk and exec secretary can alreayd use LDS.org tools already to do some, either from home, or from a desktop or laptop on a counter next to your MLS computer, connected to the web via wire or wireless. The LDS.org "clerk" and "leader" services tools perhaps are just the beginning, but they can release a little Sunday pressure.

We found that Sunday is not the only time people are willing to use the computer, but balancing security while allowing access is the bottleneck. So we let it be known what times during the week the clerks office would be available to organization leaders who need MLS, like perhaps when an evening bishopric meeting is taking place, or mutual. Our elders regularly use MLS to update their home teaching during the week while the bishopric is meeting in the office next door. All data, forms, checks, recommend books, etc are all securely locked in cabinets, of course. Sunday mornings before our block schedule are also times when the bishopric is around and can allow clerk computer access.

[davesudweeks]

The last time our building was re-keyed, each organization president received a key to the Clerk's office (and a key to the building) as instructed by the Stake. Hence, they can access the MLS computer any time they want to. We made it clear that Bishopric and Clerk schedules will trump theirs. Also, I have had to push back a little on presidencies who want to conduct their Presidency meeting in the Clerk's office with the computer available (typically only a problem with EQ and HP) when others needed access as well.

We do keep everything other than general office supplies locked up.

Troopmaster not kept on the MLS computer, since we don't have internet access at our building yet (but I noticed that CAT 5 cable was run into the Clerk's office last week).