Below you can find questions and answers on topics such as WordPress themes, confidential live web chat products, broadband coverage, databases, data protection, low cost web hosts, training options for Office 2007 and starting points for charities wanting to develop smart phone apps.

LasaICT: We’re now open for questions. Big thanks to our experts @fossbox @thirdsectorit @Suefidler @jasoncsking @ITsorted @LasaICT: #kbis10

Question 1:

Marysakho: WordPress child themes, any good? #kbis10

suefidler: not a WP expert.. but know a man who is, will get you an answer ASAP #kbis10

jasoncsking: WordPress child themes – depends entirely on how well made the child and parent are. For example Genesis Framework’s good @marysakho #kbis10

LasaICT: @marysakho for those who don’t know what a child theme is take a look here http://codex.wordpress.org/Child_Themes #kbis10

marysakho @jasoncsking: @marysakho Thanks Jason. Do you know of more good implementations of child themes plz? Do you use them? #kbis10

jasoncsking: Child themes can be used many ways, for example to create a high contrast, large print, different version of a website @marysakho #kbis10

jasoncsking: Yes. For example on www.wire.org.au the normal / large / high contrast links take you to child themes @marysakho #kbis10

jasoncsking: Also, you can make adjustments to your usual theme without having to change its code – put changes in child theme instead @marysakho #kbis10

marysakho @jasoncsking @marysakho Would you say this is easier than changing the parent? #kbis10

suefidler: @marysakho: Annette @upkeep Yes. Daunting at first, but can be worked out using web guidance. stick to ones easily customised. #kbis10

jasoncsking: I sometimes set up a child theme to avoid making mistakes with the parent theme. Or to test and show changes to client. @marysakho #kbis10

jenpinlondon @jasoncsking @marysakho is default 2010 theme good as parent or better use framework eg thematic? #kbis10

jasoncsking: Mary, why did you ask about child theme? Is there a specific thing you’re trying to do? Could you give an example? @marysakho #kbis10

marysakho @jasoncsking: I have 8 student volunteers designing site in WP and am thinking of asking them to use child theme #kbis10

marysakho @jasoncsking: In the past they have found modifying themes hard and time consuming #kbis10

jasoncsking: That definitely makes sense to me – less risk of harm! @marysakho #kbis10

jasoncsking: Plus the child theme only contains the minimum of files and the css can be short, so it’s easier to tackle @marysakho @jasoncsking: #kbis10

jenpinlondon @jasoncsking @marysakho: I am tutor for Marys students. Also difficult to support when all themes different #kbis10

jasoncsking: Need WordPress video tutorials? Seen http://www.wordpress.tv ? @jenpinlondon #kbis10

jenpinlondon @jasoncsking @jenpinlondon:  Thanks. Will check out. Already recommended. Will pass to students #kbis10

marysakho @jenpinlondon @jasoncsking: So can use same parent theme for all projects students can use own child theme to reflect client needs? #kbis10

jasoncsking: Yes, maybe give them FTP access to just their own child theme’s folder and install a theme switcher plugin. @marysakho @jenpinlondon #kbis10

marysakho: Thanks Jason @jasoncsking  #kbis10

jenpinlondon @jasoncsking @marysakho @jenpinlondon: Sorry not quite clear about plugin. Have developed child without.Only need if all same host? #kbis10

jasoncsking: Theme switcher plugin lets each visitor choose a different theme, so volunteers won’t have to see same one @marysakho @jenpinlondon #kbis10

thirdsectorit @jasoncsking:  What do you think are best / most adaptable WordPress themes? Free or under £30? #kbis10

jasoncsking: I avoid free themes except default 2010 theme. StudioPress, Organic and WPMUDev are good. Maybe Striking theme? @thirdsectorit  #kbis10

LasaICT @marysakho we have in the past used Atahulpa http://bit.ly/dF6mBj – very cusomizable #kbis10

jenpinlondon @LasaICT: @marysakho We’re thinking of either 2010 or thematic as parent. 2010 seems less complex? #kbis10

jasoncsking: Atahulpa theme is good, was updated recently (couple of weeks ago) and has some up-to-date WordPress features #kbis10

jasoncsking: http://wordpress.org/extend/plugins/theme-switcher/ plugin still works ok, even though not updated in ages. @marysakho @jenpinlondon #kbis10

jenpinlondon @jasoncsking @marysakho @jenpinlondon: thanks Jason. very helpful. #kbis10

Question 2:

umsa10 Advice Centre want 2 offer confidential “Live Chat” to students i.e.”Talk 2 an adviser now on line. Any suggestions plz #kbis10

LasaICT: @umsa have a look at http://bit.ly/fpuPnw as a starting point though extra care should be taken re security for free tools #kbis10

Question 3:

MalTwit: Trying to improve broadband coverage of building, tried boosters and booster wiring boxes do I need extra line in? HELP! #kbis10

Thirdsectorit: @MalTwit Boosters always a hassle, if you can run cat5 to diff locations try “Access points”, check amazon and/or Tomato firmware #kbis10

suefidler: @MalTwit might be worth getting somebody in to test lines and packet speeds to see if there is a bottle neck. #kbis10

suefidler: @MalTwit if not then almost certainly need more bandwidth with higher spec line or more lines. #kbis10

LasaICT: @maltwit possibly suggest additional WAPs wired to the broadband router – contact network supplier see http://bit.ly/ePOmvN – #kbis10

LasaICT: @maltwit further answer to your broadband question by @thirdsectorit  on the forum http://bit.ly/eFBz4Y #kbis10

Question 4:

LasaICT: @itsorted question from @hackneycvs event: youth group with 200 client records in excel needs recs for lo cost dbase. suggestions? #kbis10

Thirdsectorit: @hackneycvs My recommendation is Salesforce.com, 10 free licenses, easy to modify and easy to learn. #kbis10

suefidler: @hackneycvs checkout #salesforce. 10 free licences for NFPs and v easy to customise.. but free hosting, backup, security. #kbis10

suefidler: @hackneycvs big user group in London, lots of help and experience.. 2500+ charity users. #kbis10

itsorted @hackneycvs Excel expert may help – or db’s: chk http://bit.ly/ezoTRk for excellent lists #kbis10

thirdsectorit  @hackneycvs following Sue’s suggestion of London Salesforce NfP Usergroup: http://www.linkedin.com/groups?mostPopular=&;gid=1823460 #kbis10

itsorted @hackneycvs What features? Event management? I assume mailout but post, email, SMS? #kbis10

suefidler: @hackneycvs anything you want. has baic contact, membership, events etc already in there and you can easily add/amend to suit #kbis10

suefidler: @itsorted does mailing lists, merges etc. is good for update and membership emails but wouldnt use it for “marketing” mailings. #kbis10

suefidler: @hackneycvs apps directory with 100′s of apps, many free or low cost for NFPs, may be SMS in there. If not can API to SMS system #kbis10

itsorted @hackneycvs http://bit.ly/fS2umA (ours), http://bit.ly/ehxPuq, Salesforce. +chk costs: data transfer, training, set up, config #kbis10

Question 5:

Paulmorriss: Where can I got a good, free source of advice on specific questions about data protection. I’ve absorbed principles. #kbis10

LasaICT: @paulmorriss see Knowledgebase http://bit.ly/gU2lha and Paul Ticher’s book DP for Voluntary Orgs http://bit.ly/7ZCQ03 #kbis10

Question 6:

LasaICT: another from @hackneycvs event: suggestions for low cost UK web hosts? best place to compare hosts? #kbis10

suefidler: @hackneycvs there are loads, some v low cost no support (no people!) others slightly more but loads of help. I prefer later. #kbis10

suefidler: @hackneycvs try NCVO suppliers list, UK fundraising suppliers maybe. Or dM/email me for the one I use #kbis10

LasaICT: @Suefidler: @hackneycvs Also take a look at Lasa Suppliers Directory http://bit.ly/ePOmvN #kbis10

LasaICT: @suefidler: – thanks for the advice on web hosts, we’ll pass on the info #kbis10

thirdsectorit  @hackneycvs Consider hosted solutions. Cons: Less control. Pros: less administration/upkeep. WordPress.com, Google Sites, etc. #kbis10

Question 7:

Marysakho: Does anyone here know of good sites offering online training/ tutorials for Office 2007? #kbis10

LasaICT: @marysakho re: online training for Office 2007. Not used them but start with http://bit.ly/hIE89Z and http://bit.ly/gpB3vy #kbis10

Question 8:

Damienclarkson: Starting points on how charities go about developing smart phone app’s to engage with supporters? #kbis10

suefidler: @damienclarkson  really critical is to have “the idea” – what will actually be useful. technology is easier to develop than purpose! #kbis10

suefidler: @damienclarkson  once you have a useful idea then find the agency.. loads around. can get you names offline. #kbis10

suefidler: @damienclarkson  like all bandwagons though, really need to have a “why” and an objective before you start #kbis10

Thank you and acknowledgements:

LasaICT: 11am thanks for playing everybody – we’re now closed for qs. huge thanks to @fossbox @jasoncking @suefidler @thirdsectorit @itsorted #kbis10

LasaICT: thanks again everyone, keep the feedback coming if you’d like us to make this a regular event #kbis10

suefidler: can  we do it again? if we do a regular spot it will build over time. #kbis10

thirdsectorit: Agreed – this was great. I’m up for a regular schedule, and think the audience will really build over time. #kbis10

Jasoncsking: Happy to do that again. Maybe have a theme each time? #kbis10

Marysakho: Yes, let’s.@jasoncsking #kbis10

Itsorted: Thanks Miles/LASA and all for making that happen and testing a new idea! #kbis10

For the hour of technology service we’ve assembled a team of experts who have freely volunteered their time to answer your questions about social media, websites, open source, databases, e-marketing and newsletters and cloud based services.

The Knowledgebase has almost 400 jargon free articles on all aspects of ICT – from choosing a database, using social media, fundraising for technology to getting a web site – written by experts in their subject.

Taking part and using Twitter:

If you are from a UK based third sector (not-for-profit) organisation join us from 10am-11am Wednesday 26 January 2011 for the ‘hour of technology service’.  There are two easy ways for you to participate.

1. Twitter - sign up for a free account and ‘tweet’ your questions directly to our experts athttp://tweetchat.com/room/kbis10.

Please remember to include the hashtag #kbis10 in any questions you want answered by our volunteer experts. You can also tweet before the event using the #kbis10 hashtag and our experts will answer on the day.  Using the #kbis10 hashtag will make it easy for you to follow the ‘hour of service’.

Before posting your question, you’ll need to remember:

o keep your question short as Twitter only allows tweets with a maximum of 140 characters;

o include ‘#kbis10’ in your question or our experts will not see it.

We’ve also got a great Knowledgebase article on how your organisation can get the most out of Twitter to connect with your supporters and tell the world about the difference you make.

Participate in the ‘hour of technology service” at http://tweetchat.com/room/kbis10

2. Knowledgebase Forum - as an alternative to using Twitter you can also post your questions over at the Knowledgebase Forum. Registration is free and gets you access to comment on the Forum and to Knowledgebase articles.

‘Hour of technology service’ on the Knowledgebase Forum

Experts:

• Paula Graham: @fossbox offers consultancy on online collaboration, CMS/CRM, social media, open source, support and training (http://bit.ly/e8AiFR)
• Paul Webster: @watfordgap is an expert in showing the third sector how to get the most out of new media (http://bit.ly/fPnz7i)
• Stony Grunow: @thirdsectorit provides consultancy on Google Apps and Salesforce to UK non-profits (http://bit.ly/egFMcU)
• Sue Fidler: @SueFidler provides emarketing, efundraising, community building and web development consultancy for the NFP sector (http://bit.ly/gLv6Pn)
• Jason King: @jasoncsking web designer and WordPress developer, currently living aboard a narrowboat in Leeds (http://bit.ly/ieaz0Y)
• Massimo Giannuzzi: IT Sorted provides database solutions and training. Expert in Access, Excel, FileMaker. 16 years in vol sector (http://bit.ly/hUccHy)

Spread the word:

Use the #kbis10 tag online and let your friends and networks know about this opportunity to get their technology questions answered via Twitter by our panel of experts.

Contact:

Miles Maier – Lasa
Twitter: @LasaICT

Read January’s e-bulletin

Capacity Builders is a significant funder of projects in the voluntary and community  sector, including 9 national support services and the Regional ICT Champions.   The leaked list reveals The Legal Services Commission, Legal Services Ombudsman, and 8 Regional Development Agencies (RDAs) are also to be cut.

The abolition of agencies responsible for providing a significant amount of funding funding to the the sector will most likely result in a model that sees grant payments flow directly to service  providers.  This will likely provide more stability for those organisations that already get government funding and are proven to be successful.  But it will make it potentially more difficult for those that are not already funded by government or those that are not providing services statutorily required by government.  No timeline for the abolition of quangos in the leaked list was revealed.

The Daily Telegraph goes on to say,

“a further 94 are still under threat of being scrapped, four will be privatised and 129 will be merged, according to a Cabinet Office list compiled this week, while 350 other bodies have won a reprieve.”

Read the leaked list of quangos to be cut here.

With a squeeze on charitable on and statutory funding,  development workers have a crucial role to play in showing voluntary and community organisations where to go for quality ICT help and support.

It’s a significant challenge as Lasa’s own research tells us that whilst 90% of our respondents rate computers and the Internet as “vital” or “fairly important”, 55% lacked an ICT budget; 65% didn’t back-up data on a regular basis, 40% had zero computers networked and 33% said their staff didn’t have access to networked computers or email.

NAVCA also recognises the problem and recently commissioned us to deliver a one day ICT workshop as part of its SKILD programme for development workers.  Common issues that development workers need to signpost groups to include  funding ICT, databases, websites, managing ICT, trouble-shooting and technical support.   You can download the workshop from Slideshare.

In an interview to mark the announcement of Government’s Race Online 2012 initiative, intended to bring four million more people online by the time the London Olympic Games begin, Lane Fox said it was “eye-opening” that charities often struggled to fund technology.

“They should be able to get money for core funding, not only for starting new projects………. Technology is not usually at the front of people’s minds, but investing in it can allow charities to work more quickly and effectively.”

That’s no surprise to us and Lasa has long been campaigning that funders should recognise that ICT underpins service delivery to beneficiaries and should be resourced accordingly. Recent research unearthed no more than 90 funders of ICT from amongst thousands of chaitable and statutory grant schemes.  Educating funders about the value of ICT is no easy task and needs all the help it can get from Government.

Lane Fox went on to say that the Government’s Race Online campaign would not fund IT systems for charities or give them funds to help their beneficiaries get online. But she said the Race Online 2012 website would include information to help charity beneficiaries to use the internet.  The Get Online page page points to a number of schemes – such as those run by Age Concern and Pass IT On – to help individuals get online and use the Internet safely.

Charities can head over to Lasa’s ICT Knowledgebase – an online resource providing the sector with quality jargon free ICT advice and guidance.

The Race Online 2012 campaign is expected to be launched within the next six weeks.

Source: Third Sector

Computanews provides straightforward information on the use of ICT (information and communications technology) for staff in small to medium sized voluntary organisations. Sign up

In this issue:

• Project management – let’s work together – project management methodologies abound, but Aba Maison argues that the people side is as important as the processes.
• Look back in tech – the editors take a look at what might be happening in 2010 – and what ICT life was like 10 years back
• Tips 155 – Using project management tools – 12 tips to help with the project management process
• Answr up – Gunner at Aspiration talks to Computanews about their exciting new knowledge aggregation “FAQ on steroids” project.
• Data Protection – Paul Ticher looks at the latest developments affecting the sector and we review his revised data protection book
• Building Bridges – Ian Goodman from Lasa tells us how the latest project is going
• Managing Technology To Meet Your Mission – we review NTEN’s essential new tech management book

Where’s events and newsbits gone?
We’re changing Computanews slightly from this month by not publishing events or newsbits. Why? Well, we can free up a bit more room for longer articles because events and news is covered in full in our monthly London ICT e-Bulletin. If you’re not already getting this, sign up now!

Missed an issue?
Recent archived issues of Computanews can now be downloaded – see links in the sidebar on the right or visit the Computanews home page.

Tell your colleagues and friends about Computanews
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Fancy yourself as a writer?
Computanews welcomes contributions from readers – whether it’s an observation on an article or a longer piece. If you would be interested in contributing drop an email to computanews@lasa.org.uk

Computanews ICT Guides
The Lasa Computanews Guides offer practical guidance on specific ICT issues and help answer common queries. Guides are available as a FREE PDF download. Guides currently available are:

* ICT Security
* Managing ICT
* Data Protection
* Project Management
* Circuit Riders

Download from the Lasa Computanews Guides webpage