| The iPad is the bold leader in a new category of | | | | Attaching the device to a wall or sturdy stand |
| electronic device that is starting to emerge and it | | | | would allow any donor to approach and give |
| is poised to change the way we interact with the | | | | securely. These stand-alone giving kiosks would be |
| web and the world. Devices like the iPad, often | | | | an inexpensive way to allow donors to give |
| called "tablets," present a unique and interesting | | | | privately and at their own convenience. |
| platform in the world of donations and credit card | | | | - Bluetooth credit card swipers are a great tool |
| transactions. The iPad, and tablets in general, are | | | | that can be combined with tablets to enable |
| known for their small form factor and streamlined | | | | donations and church offerings to be taken with |
| user experience. In light of this, here are only a | | | | the swipe of a debit card. The swiper would pair |
| few ways that iPads can benefit non-profits and | | | | with the tablet to send the encrypted account |
| ministries in the collection of donations. | | | | number and complete the transaction in no time |
| - The iPad or tablet could be used to allow | | | | at all. |
| donations to be taken anywhere a wireless | | | | - Tablets like the iPad are very light and would |
| internet connection or WiFi connection is available. | | | | allow churches to substitute the iPad for the |
| The devices could be used in an office or other | | | | collection plate during times of offering. As debit |
| public space. Keeping one of these devices at the | | | | cards become more prolific, many people don't |
| office would give those who visit a great way to | | | | carry cash. It does not seem farfetched to think |
| give privately using their own debit card. | | | | that our donation technology should keep up with |
| - The iPad and 3G-enabled devices have the | | | | the payment technology we use every other day |
| extended ability to access the internet through | | | | of the week. |
| cellular services. This extension enables ministries | | | | As new tablet technologies like the iPad begin to |
| and non-profits to take donations instantly | | | | surface, many innovative uses will continue to |
| anywhere they have signal, allowing the | | | | surface. Inevitably our lives are touched by |
| donation-taking system to move freely outside | | | | technology, but it is up to us to use it in a way |
| the limitations of WiFi hotspots. The 3G-enabled | | | | that is beneficial. What better use of current |
| iPad is a perfect tool for expos, tradeshows or | | | | technology than to simplify and speed up the |
| any other remote presentation in which you are | | | | collection of donations? Let yourself and your |
| interested in accepting donations. | | | | non-profit spend more time putting your |
| - Giving kiosks are becoming more popular and | | | | monetary gifts to use and less time figuring out |
| the iPad, in particular, would be well suited for this. | | | | how to collect them in the first place. |