If you haven’t already, read “Capturing the Backchannel From Non-Techies” which outlines how I was able to successfully capture the backchannel of an event through the use of a volunteer iReporter team.
The following speaks to how I prepared the iReporters for their role.
Once I had my iReporter volunteers in place, I sent out this welcome email using Constant Contact, which is an email/newsletter service.
While I met with iReporters individually via phone and email to discuss how they would be reporting (technically speaking), I sent out the message below. This email included two video (use thumbnails with orange player bar to view) that explained the types of things we were hoping to hear from the iReporters at the event.
Based upon the few questions I received at the event, and the incredible content that was captured, this up front prep time, though time consuming, paid off.
I recommend easy to use, free tech services and resources that I've personally used/tested. I select free tech tools to review based upon my past & current work with various non-profit organizations in which I provide(d) a wide variety of tech support services including general tech consulting, web design, database dev, and elearning. Additionally, I like to help those new to technology learn more through tips and simple explanations.
