Technology Magazine December 2020 | Page 203

guidelines . “ As centres reopened , customers were able to book via their centre ’ s website , we created a very simple process for the customers to follow the prompts to book the date and time and make payment . The booking system allowed us to control the headcount at our sites as part of the government restrictions while also ensuring that everybody had the same access to the facility in a fair and equitable way .”
This simple strategy resulted in a real boost for the organisation . Since May , more than 200,000 online bookings have been made at the Y ’ s aquatic and health and wellness centres . “ We were proud to once again be able to support our community with in-person operations , and be able to provide opportunities for many of our staff to return to work . It also took some financial pressure off the organisation , with increased income ,” says Shane Riddle as he prepares to meet the further challenges the pandemic will undoubtedly throw up . Meanwhile , the experience has provided a great example of how technology can sustain a vital social enterprise like theYMCA and stimulate better service , using digital tools .
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