While it can be expanded to include adults, this guide focuses on how to make it work for your youth ministry.
Using Barcodes with Elvanto Check-In
Settings You’ll Need to Set
- Navigate to Settings > Check-in Settings.
- Change your code type to ‘Manually set a code at first check-in’. This allows you to have pre-generated barcodes ready for youth when they check in for the first time.
- Choose your Family Codes setting:
- Each person within a family must have a unique security code: Each family member will have a different barcode.
- Allow family members to use the same security code: The entire family will use one barcode.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Barcode Scanner: Any barcode scanner from eBay or Amazon should work fine. Higher quality scanners are preferable.
Generating Barcodes
- Online Tools: Use tools like Avery for generating barcodes from CSV files.
- Dymo Software: For generating and printing single barcodes.
What Value to Use for the Barcode
The barcode value should match the individual’s security code. Have pre-existing barcodes ready to scan in as the member’s security code when adding a new person or family.
Compatible Label Printers
Note: If you would like to use multiple printers we recommend purchasing the same model.
Supported DYMO Printers
- DYMO LabelWriter 450 Turbo
- DYMO LabelWriter 450 Twin Turbo
- DYMO LabelWriter 550 Turbo (NEW)
Notes for Specific Printers
- DYMO Legacy Devices: Older models may be compatible, but only the 450 series and newer are supported.
- Twin Turbo Printers: Only one opening can be used at a time.
- DYMO Wireless Printers: Requires a shared wireless network connection. Wired connections are more reliable.
Security Codes and Session Codes
Security Codes
- Disable searching by phone numbers or last name in Self Check-in settings.
- Set a format for randomly generated codes, including predefined suffixes or prefixes.
Session Codes
- Enable session codes for an additional layer of security.
- Specify the format for session codes, similar to security codes.
How Check-In Can Work for Your Church
Self Check-In
- Parents or youth check themselves in at the check-in desk.
- Print labels and drop youth off at the appropriate room.
- Volunteers focus on looking after youth instead of managing check-in.
Staff Check-In
- Staff check youth in using tablets at the check-in desk.
- Ensure correct labels are given to parents.
- Quickly access information needed for youth care.
How It Works
- Volunteers use tablets to access the ‘Check-in’ screen.
- Print labels at the correct station after checking in youth.
Quick Check-In
- Designed to work with barcode scanners.
- Members scan their barcode to check in without further interaction.
- Automatically checks in if only one service and room option is available.
- Prompts for a decision if multiple services or rooms are available.
For more detailed information and step-by-step guides, visit the relevant help pages linked throughout this article.