What a delightful book! "40 days and 40 bytes" was a reading assignment in a course I was taking. I was not looking forward to reading about networks, software, hardware, and gigabytes. But this book is written so clearly and with such humor that I read it in one sitting - and completely enjoyed it.
40 days and 40 bytes very logically goes through the steps necessary to design and implement a plan to introduce, or update the technology needs of a congregation. It is the perfect book for the novice and expert alike. The book covers the very basics including techno vocabulary without `talking down.' At the same time, it addresses the concerns of those with expertise in the technology field. The resources from books, companies, software, and internet sources are extremely helpful.
The information from the Center of Congregations based on real experience, and trial and error is invaluable. The book goes from the beginning planning stages, through implementation, training, support, and starting again. It gives valuable information on where churches need to put their money to insure that the technology put in place continues to function smoothly. In addition, the recommendation for continuing support and updating of equipment shifts the mindset of congregations from looking at computers and technology as large one time expenses. The fact that this information comes from a group that works with congregations and actually knows how they function validates their recommendations. The emphasis on beginning first with a team to discern the unique needs of the congregation makes so much sense. I personally identified at least 4 pitfalls that my congregation has already fallen into, which might have been avoided if we had read this book. I'm hopeful it will give the congregation a whole new way to approach the technological needs of the church.