Reistratioto Face” or “Face to Computer” ONLY – What Benefits the Region Most? Registration “Face to Face” or “Face to Computer” Only What Benefits the Region Most? Workshop # 313

Workshop Objectives Discuss what impact e-signature technology has on the registration process. Discuss how Regions handle issues resulting from parents having little or no contact with the Regional Board. Discuss ways Regions can compensate for this lack of face-to-face contact. Explore the benefits of personal interaction with potential volunteers and players. Debate the pros and cons of “Face to Face” versus “Face to Computer” registration.

Let’s keep the “Big Picture” in mind throughout this workshop.

Definitions Describe “Face to Face” registration events. Describe “Face to Computer” registration.

Let’s discuss the positives/negatives of each registration process.

Face to Face Registration Positives/Negatives

Positives of Face to Face Could be the biggest event the Region holds. Well organized events create a great first impression. Parents get to meet the “A Team” of the Region. Parents can be convinced to volunteer in person. Brands AYSO. Many Regions rate new players during the process.

Negatives of Face to Face So much work! Costs money and resources to put on. Parents can ask for special requests in person. Takes up parents’ valuable time. Might not be a convenient time or place for parents.

Face to Computer Positives/Negatives

Positives of Face to Computer The technology is available to do this easily. It is far less work for the Regional Board. Parents like the ability to do this at their leisure. All Regional Board Members don’t have to be involved Tech savvy younger parents like this technology. No need to handle large amounts of money.

Negatives of Face to Computer Impersonal More difficult to recruit volunteers. Does not “Brand” AYSO. Parents might not have a computer or the skill to complete the process. The follow up has to be done by coaches. Registration reconciliation is more difficult.

One RC’s Perspective “We lose some of the personal touch, perhaps, but we gain so much in data analytics through technology that makes life easier for the board and can ultimately result in new opportunities never even thought of!” Peter Kaplan RC Region 6/D/735

Recruiting volunteers can be a challenge. How does each process tackle this issue?

Recruiting Volunteers Face to Face Each board member can recruit for their own discipline. Talk to every parent. List all volunteer jobs on the wall. Acknowledge every recruit. RC can shake hands and welcome parents. Warm/Fuzzy Face to Computer Parents fill out a form on line. Many Regions “require” parents to volunteer. Is that allowed? Set expectations on the Region’s website. Sterile/Convenient

Questions If you are a new parent, is it just about registering your child to play? Beware of thinking that there is only one right/wrong way to register players. Why? How can Regions use a combination of both processes? Explain.

Doing only one type of registration isn't the BEST PRACTICE...it takes a good blending! In-person registrations connect and re-connect people. However, having a line that takes two hours to get through doesn't do much to show a "quality" program; just a process that takes up too much time! Is there a compromise?

Let’s do some role playing… 1.We are at a face to face registration, and a new parent comes in. Do the best you can to recruit this parent to volunteer. 2.During Registration, brag to a parent about the process your Region has set up for a face to face registration event (food, kids activities, spaciousness, socializing, etc…). 3.A parent is watching their child playing soccer. You need more volunteers. Recruit!

What is a store that you frequently shop in? Is it a “big box” or a local store? Describe the experience of going to that store

What is an online site that you go to out of necessity or by choice? Describe the experience of shopping on this site.

The Bottom Line

Conclusion Both of AYSO’s ways to register players and recruit volunteers have their advantages and disadvantages. Every Region needs to weigh the factors, and design a registration process that works.

And if it doesn’t work…

Region Face to Computer Face to Face Find the right balance! Workshop #212