Dorchester Parish Website Meeting

Monday 13th December  2004 at 8.00 p.m. at 4 Shaston Crescent

Minutes

Present: Richard Betts (RB), Patricia Bowen (PB), Richard Cox (RC) and Mike Morgan (MM)

1. Name for the web domain
It was agreed that the name should be straightforward and easy to find. It was agreed that Dorchesteranglican.info would be suitable. RB undertook to confirm this with the Rector and ensure that he was agreeable that the Parish will pay for the name and the host, which will come to around £90. RB will then advise RC, who will go ahead in setting up the site.

2. Confirm aims of the site - Evangelise and Inform (in that order)
The group felt that the website would need further guidance on how to use the website to evangelise. The provision of an interesting site with useful information would undoubtedly help with the mission of the Church, particularly if it is attractive and user-friendly.

3. Consideration of what links we need to make
It was agreed that we should link with the diocese, Churches Together in Dorset and the Tourist Information office. MM reminded the meeting that he had a list provided by Stephen Ryder giving useful links. RC agreed to check it again when setting up the links.

4. How the work setting up the new site is to be done
The meeting was concerned that RC was able to undertake setting up the new site without help. RC assured the meeting that he was happy to do it but was concerned about maintaining the site diary. It was agreed that the most sensible solution would be for the Parish Office to undertake this as all the information would be readily available for them. RC offered to provide some training for the office staff in the initial stages. RB undertook to raise this with the Rector.

5. Improving communication
The meeting were grateful to RB for representing the clergy at the meeting, as it was felt to be important that they were fully apprised of what was being proposed and what was happening. Various means of improving communication and raising awareness were suggested, in particular
(a) an information sheet and questionnaire to all regular attendee's asking for feedback and suggestions
(b) a feature in the Dorset Echo and Wessex FM announcing the launch of the new site.
MM undertook to do the publicity and press releases.

RB also suggested that there should be a check each quarter by nominated members of the Church to ensure that the quality of the site was maintained and to note any concerns. It was agreed that this would be valuable.

There was no other business and meeting ended at 9.05 p.m.

- End of Meeting.