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Discussion
Many programs change frequently. Constituents in the future may depend upon Internet as a way to quickly get up to date detailed information.
When an agency offers an array of programs and the constituency must make choices, details may help the selection process. It may be best to summarize programs at one level, then to offer greater detail on other pages for those who need it.
Many agencies incur substantial expenses printing and distributing events schedules. It may frequently be too expensive to repeat the process when small changes in schedules occur. Substantial time is lost when using bulk rate mail to deliver notices.
The value of schedules online depends upon the key constituency and their access to Internet. For some time, the process will require multiple forms of communication. A mailed schedule may suggest that readers check online for further information or updates. A fax sent to other organizations may alert readers to changing information - with the details online. People can also register to be notified by E-mail when changes occur.
Schedules can also be submitted to a clearinghouse agency to be a part of a larger community calendar. This may be particularly appropriate when planning large events that should be scheduled to be free of competition from other events.
Program information can help readers to sort out which programs may be appropriate for them. This makes it possible to target programs more specifically to a certain group. Training programs, for example, may clarify the expected experience and skills of participants.
Programs may also have eligibility requirements or differential fee schedules that may be spelled out online. With some custom programming, it would even be possible to pre-screen participants online. Respondents would answer a number of questions on a form and the answers would be fed to a small program. Complex adjustments and calculations can be done by the computer and correct fees or eligibility can be echoed back to the reader.
