Smart Church Solutions developed the first version of eSPACE in 2008. Back then, we called it MINISTReSPACE. It was a play on words:
- We used an “e” instead of a “Y”
- The “e” was meant to represent “electronic,” meaning you could manage your ministry space (facilities) electronically via a SaaS-based tool.
In 2014, however, we shortened the name to just eSPACE.
What The “e” Means To Us
Since those early days, we have seen more significance with the “e” in eSPACE. It is no longer just to represent an electronic/web-based solution. It encompasses so many other attributes. Here is a list of some of the “e” attributes that eSPACE provides.
Efficient
This is the number one attribute we hear from users of eSPACE. The software helps them be more efficient in stewarding their facilities. In addition, the eSPACE system integrations (HVAC, door access, digital signage, etc.) not only improve energy efficiency but are also the leading reason for increased operational efficiency.
Effective
eSPACE could be in the dictionary to describe the word effective. Successful in producing a desired or intended result.
Empowering
There Is a quote by Seymor Simon that is so true. “Knowledge empowers people with our most powerful tool: the ability to think and decide.” The power of eSPACE provides your team with the knowledge that will empower them to make wise and informed decisions.
Enable
Enablement is the kissing cousin of empowerment. It means to “give (someone or something) the authority or means to do something.” When you properly use eSPACE to assign tasks, schedule events, schedule preventive maintenance, track assets and plan for the inevitable life cycle expenses, you enable your team to accomplish more than if you try to do it yourself.
Ensure
How do you know things are getting done? I get that you can walk around to ensure every task is completed. Or you could use a tool to review and confirm they are done. One seems more efficient than the other.
Enhance
As we have written about before, paper, pencil, Excel, and Google Calendars are still used by far too many organizations to manage their complex commercial facilities. We must understand that our ministry facilities are different from our homes. They are complex commercial structures with systems that need an enhanced methodology for managing and maintaining.
Expedite
Do you have post-it notes and reminders of all the things that need to be addressed in your facility? Leaky sink? Cracked window? Coffee spill? Fire extinguisher safety check? eSPACE is a place to list these items. It also allows you to set reminders and definitive dates for tasks to be addressed that will expedite completion.
Excel
“To exceed or go beyond.” That is one of the definitions of excel, which is what eSPACE subscribers regularly tell us. We are told that they subscribed to eSPACE for various purposes but found that it far exceeded their expectations.
Eliminate
We could write an entire book on this one. But let’s look at some of what eSPACE can eliminate:
- Double booked rooms
- Overlooked repairs
- Wasted energy
- Inefficient use of manpower
- Lost post-it notes
- Out-of-date history logs
- Out-of-stock inventory
- Lack of capital reserve planning
- Etc. (that starts with “e” as well!)
Establish
Far too many organizations have not thought through workflows, systems and processes for managing their facilities. eSPACE provides the framework for establishing processes that in turn make your team more efficient.
Power of eSPACE
There are hundreds of other “e” words we could list. But the above represents what we hear from our subscribers. If you can see the power in the “e,” contact us to see how eSPACE can transform your church facility stewardship initiatives.
