By Andrew Bowen, Steering Committee, Convention Book Chair
The 2016 convention is “going green” and seeking to reduce costs and environmental waste. So, this convention book will not be a large volume of 300+ pages. Instead, the book will be an overview still including information about the schedule, performers, workshops, new music composers, exhibits, worship events and more. A new mobile application (app) will supplement the book and include the
comprehensive information. As recognized in the 2015 AGO member survey, this
change is meant to address the preferences of many members and support leveraging technology in a sustainable manner. Printed concert programs and worship service leaflets will be distributed to both support those not using the app and to allow for full participation.
One of the great things about technology is it provides the opportunity to play with new options. This is true of the new app in that you will be able to download it to your smart phone or tablet prior to the convention to try it out and play with the “bells and whistles” to find what works for you including interactive maps and creating custom
Notes and ‘To Do’ lists. You can’t hurt it or yourself, so why not give it a go? Equipped with these tools, your convention experience will be enriched and made easier to navigate. And, you can take advantage of multiple ways to find information and connect with other attendees, performers and exhibitors in the way you prefer, even while riding the bus to the next concert.
Plans are to make the AGO 2016 app available for download in mid-May. To help you get started, a series of live webinars will be offered and then recorded for on-
demand access. In addition, a quick reference guide and a few short videos will be offered. While at the convention, our team of app “geeks” will be on hand at The Smart Stop (Hotel Level 4) to help you navigate the app easily and efficiently along with email support and a series of daily tips communicated through the app.
Your Input Requested
If you haven’t yet responded to our app survey, please click here and take two minutes to share your preferences. Your participation is greatly appreciated!