Choosing an Event
To collect information to be used in Metrics, we will need to use the Abacus module.
If we have multiple locations, we will need to select the appropriate location from the drop-down menu. We can then select the date of the event for which we are adding figures and click Select to choose the event or service from the dropdown list. Alternatively, we can choose a service from the list of recent events by clicking the green pencil button to the right of the event.
This will bring up all the Collection Series which have been set up for the Event Category that this event belongs to. If we have not added figures for this event previously, we will be asked to select a category. Adding Collection Series’ to Categories is covered in the Add a Metrics Series video.
Adding the Numbers
The size of the plus and minus icons means this module is easy to use on a smartphone or other small device. The person who has been charged with the job of gathering information using the Abacus module can then quickly and easily count up the number of Church members, visitors, vehicles in the car park, and so on. Alternatively, we can type directly into the central box. We are also able to add notes about the figures, that we may need. Once we have finished, click Save at the top of the page.
Once we have clicked Save, we will be returned to the start of the process so that we can enter figures for another event, if we need to. We can change the location, event or date for which we are gathering information and enter the relevant details.
Update the Numbers
If we need to correct, or update, details for an event we have already added figures for, we can simply select the event in the Abacus, make the changes we need and click Save. This will update the figures throughout the system.
The information will appear in the Metrics module. More information on reading the metrics is covered in our other videos.