wfn.org | Agency expands ability to meet denomination's computer needs

[NewsDesk <NewsDesk@UMCOM.ORG>]

Aug. 24, 2001 News media contact: Linda Green7(615)742-54707Nashville, Tenn.
10-71B{363}

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (UMNS) - United Methodist Communications (UMCom) is
broadening its efforts to "wire" the church by launching partnership
agreements with two more computer corporations.

The communications agency is offering Apple and Dell computer products to
the United Methodist Church in a cost-effective way. The partnerships enable
UMCom to provide computer equipment at reduced prices to the denomination.

Last September, UMCom entered into an agreement with the software giant
Microsoft Corp. to give the denomination a less expensive way to purchase
Microsoft software.  The agency established TechShop, a 24-hour-a-day online
store that allows people to view and purchase computer products after an
identification number has been established.  

UMCom is providing Microsoft computer software in a variety of languages to
local churches, annual conferences, boards, agencies, schools, colleges,
universities and other ministries. Since TechShop opened, it has processed
more than 4,000 orders for 2,600 separate customers. 
 
The next step for the agency is to open computer stores featuring Apple and
Dell computer products, according to Linda Saunders, TechShop manager.

The new partnerships help the agency expand its efforts to create a
churchwide communications system by providing lower prices on computers and
related software and equipment throughout the denomination, she said.

While the Microsoft products are only available for church use and cannot be
obtained for personal use, the eligibility requirements for acquiring Apple
and Dell products through UMCom are different, Saunders said.

Apple products will be available at www.umcom.org/techshop to all United
Methodist entities-- local churches, annual conferences, boards, agencies,
schools, colleges, hospitals, universities and other church-related
ministries -- as well as to their employees.

The communications agency also will open a Dell computer store at its
TechShop site open to all United Methodist individuals and United
Methodist-related organizations.  

The Apple and Dell stores will offer more than their product brands and
lines, Saunders said. The stores will carry third-party software and items
that the companies don't make themselves, such as LCD projectors, digital
cameras, scanners, printers and other computer peripheral equipment.

By using TechShop, United Methodists will be able to buy products at lower
prices than they would receive by going to the Apple and Dell websites,
Saunders said.

"We want people to come to us for their computer needs," Saunders said. "We
will be developing other product offerings in the future."

Details about the Microsoft, Apple and Dell partnerships, along with
information on obtaining a customer identification number, are available by
e-mailing techshop@umcom.org or by calling toll-free (866) 521-1179. Orders
can be placed online 24 hours a day at www.umcom.org/techshop.

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United Methodist News Service
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