Ongoing training for all tech volunteers in the correct procedures for operating all audio / video equipment is vital to glitch free events. Make sure that everyone has a copy of the owner's manual to each piece of equipment. Take the time to discuss, demonstrate and permit hands on use of each piece of gear. Whether you string cables, hang mics or mix the sound, everyone should have some working knowledge of the entire sound system. Cross training is important and beneficial to everyone involved. It is helpful to develop and document a system and checklist to ensure that the tech systems are operated properly and to your standards of technical excellence at all times.
To avoid burnout, regularly rotate staff so that everyone enjoys serving. Solicit their involvement well in advance for special events, holiday services, concerts, etc. Pastor the volunteers working with you. If your team can't logistically meet with the worship team for prayer before a worship service or other event, pray with your team before services. Consider expanding your technical team into a bible study or other group, which can inspire one another in their spiritual growth.
System maintenance is critical! Keep the production booth clean and straightened up. Also, ensure that you have an adequate supply of batteries for wireless microphones, duct tape, audio tapes (cassette, DAT etc), spare connectors for all types of audio cables, bulk wire for building cables, headphones, headphone boxes, mic stands, boom arms, mic clips, and other items. Maintain all audio, video and lighting gear in proper working condition. Remember to include equipment in the main auditorium, children's ministry, and all other ministries that require the use of technical support systems, including portable systems. Do regular preventative maintenance checks on all tech support gear and regular listening tests of all loudspeaker systems. Test, then fix or replace broken mic cables, speaker cables, MIDI cables, guitar patch cords, coax cables for wireless mic antenna connections, and other necessary stuff. Test your VCR, and video projectors well in advance of the service. Troubleshooting video problems often takes longer and results in significant solutions. Regularly clean and degauss all audio cassette decks, videotape decks, and duplicators. As the technical director you should take a copy of the duplicated tapes and listen to them during the week to make sure that quality standards are being met.
Experiencing Worship, The Study
Used by churches all over the world to help teach worship, the Experiencing Worship study can help your worship team too.
Your team will learn why we worship and gain a better understanding of how to worship.
One user said..."Your 5 week study course has made a tremendous impact on my life in the study of worship... I would like to express my thanks for a well written study course that leads into a higher realm of praise and worship."
Experiencing Worship, The Study