The Helping Hands League does not have a lot of money to spend on technology. The league wants to keep records on each client and volunteer for tax purposes and have the ability to create schedules for volunteers to ensure the needs of each client are being met. What IT recommendations would you make for the Helping Hands League?
Thank you for using the Jiskha Homework Help Forum. Let's begin with what the IRS requires:
1. http://www.irs.gov/businesses/small/article/0,,id=98575,00.html
2. http://www.librarysupportstaff.com/papermngt.html
3. http://www.apa.org/practice/recordkeeping.html (Here you will have to download the pdf file)
If a computer is not available, before computers records were kept in a book. It is harder to keep schedules but that too was done before computers! It is the most time-consuming but perhaps the least expensive.
I'd recommend that you find a volunteer who will keep the records on his/her personal computer. If that's not possible, then solicit the donation of an older computer that can store these records.
Also, no great software is required, a spreadsheet can do all the tasks required.
If the Helping Hands League has limited funds to spend on technology, there are several cost-effective IT recommendations that can be made:
1. Utilize free or low-cost software: Instead of investing in expensive software solutions, consider using free or low-cost alternatives. For record-keeping purposes, a spreadsheet software like Microsoft Excel or Google Sheets can be used to create and manage client and volunteer records.
2. Leverage cloud storage: Cloud storage services like Google Drive, Dropbox, or Microsoft OneDrive offer free or affordable storage options. Storing records on the cloud provides easy access and backup capabilities without the need for costly hardware infrastructure.
3. Request hardware donations: Reach out to local businesses or individuals to inquire about potential donations of older computers or laptops that can be used to store and manage records. Many organizations are willing to donate their outdated equipment, which can still serve the purpose of storing records.
4. Utilize volunteers' personal computers: Ask a responsible, reliable volunteer to keep the records on their personal computer, ensuring data security and easy accessibility. This eliminates the need for purchasing additional hardware.
5. Maximize collaboration tools: To create schedules for volunteers and ensure the needs of each client are being met, consider using free online collaboration tools like Google Calendar or Microsoft Teams. These platforms allow for easy scheduling and communication among volunteers without the need for dedicated software.
Remember, the focus should be on finding simple, cost-effective solutions that can meet the specific needs of the Helping Hands League.