Issue link: https://lombardparks.uberflip.com/i/1269752
Lombard Park District 48 Chapter Two A Website assessment should be completed minimally on an annual basis. The assessment should include external customer feedback through focus groups. In addition, it is helpful to have recreation program staff and contractual instructors review the site and provide suggestions in areas of improvement, based on their use of the site and suggestions they hear from customers. It is projected that within the next fi ve years, there will be an equal number of users who may access Websites through smart phones (iPhones, Androids, Blackberries, etc.) and Tablets (iPad, Samsung Galaxy, HP Slate, etc.). In order to maximize outreach to its target market, the Lombard Park District has developed applications and a WAP (wireless application protocol) enabled Website which can be easily viewed by potential users on smart phones or tablets and also allows them to make online reservations. Additionally, the mobile site includes Google Maps for easy directions and park and facility locations. The Park District has also adapted to the world of Social Media and off ers links from their Website to Facebook and Twitter. Other potential social media outlets to consider are Flickr and YouTube. All of these allow community members more opportunities to be informed and connected to the Park District. Currently these tools are used for event/program promotion, announcements, and other informative news. The Park District should also be sure to include photos, video, and other promotional materials when utilizing these social outlets. The Park District has a unique interactive program guide which is easy to navigate by turning pages and also provides easy to fi nd program categories. The activity guide is also available as a PDF for individuals wishing to print a copy for their personal use. One of the categories on the Website is the Field Condition tab. This is a great tool for residents especially during rainy season for athletics. It is important for the Park District, however, to make sure that this is consistently updated and current. It may be helpful to include park photos with addresses for the facilities listed. Volunteer Program One area where the staff feels there is an opportunity for improvement is the volunteer program. Once the volunteer program is evaluated and more developed, use the Website to promote and communicate volunteer opportunities and the process for getting involved. Photos of events or past volunteer groups can help to create a brand for the volunteer program and a link to a volunteer application should also be included. Registration Currently, the Park District uses Vermont Systems software for processing program registration. This registration information can be linked with Geographic Information Systems (GIS) data for a more thorough demographic analysis with the use of visual maps. The City of Arlington, Texas is currently using GIS to gather information such as the top percentage of spenders, most recent customer, most frequent customer, and where these customers are located and how far they are traveling to for programs and services. Additionally, using GIS, staff can target marketing and advertisements to specifi c areas.