Every week many churches are going multimedia. Some spend several months, even years, figuring out what they want. Others are quite quick in making a final decision. Before any decision is final, there will be many questions that have to be answered. Here are a few examples...

WHAT WILL MULTIMEDIA DO FOR US?

At some point the conversation about multimedia starts, usually by the strong vision minded members of the pastoral and audiovisual staff. Other churches have been going multimedia and people are talking. It is known that projection of hymns, choruses and announcements can be easily displayed on a large screen, giving a clear image for all to see. The pastor can use PowerPoint ™ to accent sermon points. Live video, or video clips can be shown from time to time. Drama teams can use projected images as a backdrop. These are only some of the uses for multimedia. It seems that when a church starts using technology to its fullest, many new exciting ideas arise.

HOW WILL IT HELP IN THE PRESENTATION OF THE SERVICE AND THE GOSPEL?

It is imperative that the fact-finding committee make educated recommendations to the congregation. All angles should be sought, remembering the church body will adopt an idea when they are satisfied. This then, makes this question very important. Firstly, a good multimedia projector will project the songs and sermon notes in a clear and bright manner. This should be better than the old overhead projector in operation now. The pastors can control their own sermon reinforcement points or have a tech do it. This will deliver a clear understandable presentation reinforcing the message. It has been found that people take more notes when they have something to copy from as well as hear. Video clips can easily be inserted into the service or played at length at any time. In all, this method of presentation will interest the spectator and grab their attention. Any way that a church can attract attention, and present the message to people in a manner they respond to, is a move in the right direction.

WHAT EQUIPMENT DO WE NEED?

Assuming all the audio and lighting systems of the church are in proper operation, multimedia in this case would refer to the acquisition of computer and projection equipment with all its peripherals. What kind of a computer do we need? Do we need the latest in technology or is the spare one in the junk room ok? Generally the software used dictates the computer needed. Time should be spent with the software suppliers to determine what category of computer would be best, keeping in mind technological advances. Time should also be spent with the computer and multimedia suppliers. Do not forget other people “in the know”. This could be people within the church that have computer training or are involved in today’s technology. The light level of the sanctuary, as well as size and type of screen, will help select the brightness of the projector. Are there windows, rogue spotlights or abnormal ambient light? Is there necessary lighting that has to be redirected or scrimmed? If the conditions within the church must remain as they are, and cannot be manipulated, a more expensive projector may be needed in order to counter the lighting.

WHAT CHANGES WILL WE HAVE TO MAKE?

Even though there is somewhat of an order of operation and pattern to follow, every situation is unique in some way. Slight remodeling to the existing structure may be needed. Generally the existing structure will force certain decisions. In the case of a new building, this is more flexible. Will we have the projector hanging from the ceiling, at the back of the sanctuary on the wall, or on the balcony? Is the screen we have ok, or do we need a new one? Should we go rear screen? These are good questions that may be quite simple to answer. Taking time with a consultant from a reputable multimedia company will help. Sometimes there are changes needed to the physical structure. Sometimes changes are needed in the expectations and understanding of the people.

WHAT IN-HOUSE EXPERTISE DO WE NEED?

Do we need education and training to fulfill our expectations? There is a learning curve with any new hardware or software used. Technical volunteers are very valuable, and usually the frontline force. Once they master the new equipment, they will be able to adapt to future add-ons and changes, as well as teaching new operators. The church has an amazing number of members who are not only computer literate, but at the cutting edge of the computer hardware/software game. Use these people; they are a wealth of knowledge.

WHAT WILL WE HAVE TO LEARN? WHAT WILL I HAVE TO LEARN?

These are hard questions to guess answers for. There will be a change in the technical operations of the service. A more structured format may have to be followed. Coordination, cooperation and preplanning are a must. Switching from computer to live or recorded sources within the service has to be seamless. Do not be afraid of this, for after some trial and possible error, all will quickly fall into place. The second part of this question may be the scariest for some of the principal users. It may be that certain people have to learn to use a computer. It may be just new software education. Remember, we are never too old to learn, and anything can be conquered in time.

WHAT WILL PEOPLE EXPECT?

This can be a nagging thought for the committee in charge of researching multimedia and its possibilities. The congregation may be apprehensive of change, or in great expectation of the proposed idea. They will expect it to be the best possible, for the best possible price. Some may have unrealistic expectations; however, they are usually happy with what they see. This may be due to the fact that now they enjoy an image that is superb in every way. It may be because the change was not as bad as they imagined. Most times though, people are glad to worship within the new system, and find the changes assist in the overall church experience.

WHO WILL HELP US MAKE THE PROPER DECISION?

This is a serious question hinging on trust and cautious expectation. A multimedia company, with experience in church application, and understanding of church operations, should be contacted. They should be willing to spend as much time as needed to assist with all queries. This may be over the phone or in person. The church should clearly know what they want to achieve. The consultant should clearly know what to offer in each perceived application. After some conversation, the goals may slightly change, but between the church and service provider, all areas will be covered. Good advice and equipment will create a pleasing outcome.

WHAT SHOULD WE REALLY GET?

When the multimedia supplier/consultant is found, it will quickly become apparent that there are now several more choices. The consultant should listen to the church's needs, and add their ideas. Both parties must also discuss future possible applications or desires, then come to a conclusion. Costs may sway this decision, but the outcome should be satisfactory. The proposal, diagrams, suggested items, and required items, should show only what is absolutely needed to achieve the desired outcome. Computer hardware and software is also needed. Use the knowledge of the consultant, and that of the hardware and software suppliers as a resource in this decision. Web pages, articles in related publications and visiting other churches that have gone multimedia, all add to a proper decision.

WHAT WILL THE TOTAL COST ACTUALLY BE?

Most people see the projector as the major item, and it may be. The peripherals may end up costing the same or more. Mounting hardware, cabling, cable boosters, and installation with all its facets can be expensive. Will computers and software need to be bought? Do cameras and video equipment need to be added in order to fulfill a plan of showing live video? For a church on a very tight budget, hope is not lost. There is always a way to do something that will add to the worship experience, and create a pleasing setting for the newcomer. Cooperation by all parties involved goes a long way. Most churches have the people and know-how to do most of the installation and hook-up. Some smaller churches, because of budget, buy less than they really wanted, knowing that in a few years they may relocate or build. When they grow, they will use the equipment acquired now for another area. This could be the church education department, youth, or any other department requiring multimedia. This would make continued use of the equipment. By then the church should be in a better position to purchase what they want. Whatever the church budget is, a total can be arrived at. Some hopes may not be met at this time, however, as long as ministry advances, nothing is lost. Ultimately, totals depend on what is needed to fulfill the need.

D. Myron Leis

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