Making the Check-in System work for your Church

The Check-in system in Elvanto is a versatile tool that can be customized to suit the needs of your church. While it is primarily designed for youth ministry, it can also be expanded to include adults. This guide will walk you through the essential features and setup options for using the Check-in system effectively, including barcode integration, compatible label printers, security codes, and different check-in methods.

Using Barcodes with Elvanto Check-in

  1. Barcode Integration:

    • The Check-in system can be used with barcodes to speed up the process.
    • Set your code type to 'Manually set a code at first check-in' under Settings > Check-in Settings.
  2. Barcode Settings:

    • You can set family codes to either option: unique security codes for each family member or a shared code for the entire family.
  3. Required Equipment:

    • Barcode Scanner: Any barcode scanner from eBay or Amazon should work, but higher quality is better.
    • Barcode Generation: Use online tools like Avery or Dymo Software to generate barcodes. The barcode value should match the individual's security code.

Compatible DYMO Printers

  • DYMO LabelWriter 450 Turbo
  • DYMO LabelWriter 450 Twin Turbo
  • DYMO LabelWriter 550 Turbo (NEW)

Security and Session Codes

  1. Security Codes:

    • Disable searching by phone numbers or last name to require security codes.
    • Specify a format for randomly generated codes with predefined suffixes or prefixes.
  2. Session Codes:

    • Enable session codes for an additional layer of security. These codes are printed on labels and change with each check-in session.

How Check-in Can Work for Your Church

  1. Self Check-in:

    • Parents can check their children in at a self-check-in desk, freeing up volunteers to focus on other tasks.
    • Some churches use the self-check-in page to make it easier for volunteers to assist with check-in.
  2. Staff Check-in:

    • Staff can use tablets to check children in as they arrive, ensuring accuracy and providing quick access to necessary information.
  3. Quick Check-in:

    • Designed to work with barcode scanners, Quick Check-in allows members to scan a barcode to check in without further interaction.
    • If there is only one possible room and service, the system will automatically check the person in. If multiple options exist, the person will be prompted to choose.

By following these steps, you can customize the Check-in system in Elvanto to suit your church's needs, ensuring a smooth and efficient check-in process for everyone.