Many of us saw an advantage to digital resources when we were in the middle of a pandemic. We sent digital versions of resources to our groups and group leaders to minimize the risk of spreading the SARS-CoV-2 virus or to be good citizens in the area in which we live. But what about now when we are once again meeting face-to-face? What advantage do digital resources offer us?
Before we go on, we need to define digital since it means a lot of things to different people. Lifeway uses the term to define anything that is not a physical resource. Downloadable audio or video, eBooks, and PDFs delivered through Ministry Grid are all classified as digital. For the purposes of this post, we are using the general usage covering all these types of resources.
Here are three reasons to still consider digital:
1. Saves storage space. When a box of printed resources arrives, most of us need to move around other items to store them until we need them. We may have dedicated space for storing resources but that might be space we could be using for another class we could be starting. Digital still requires storage, but most likely is stored on a server or a computer that takes up much less space than a box of printed curriculum.
2. Better stewards of time. In a mobile world, we have become accustomed to using our phones, tablets, and computers to read, study, and review. We can carry a book with us just as well, but we may not know that we are going to have some free time while waiting for the bus or for our lunch appointment to arrive. Having a digital version of our Bible study resources makes it possible for us to use that free time for something constructive that feeds our soul or helps us feed others. We and the people we lead become better stewards of the gaps in our day.
3. Instant Access. When we order a print resource, we then wait for the item to be shipped, transported, and delivered. With digital, the resource is usually available moments after ordering it. In cases where we are pre-ordering the resource, the digital resource is available well ahead of the first suggested Sunday for use. Instant access can also describe the resource itself. Instead of needing to remember where we last put our printed book, a digital resource is just a click away on our smartphone, tablet, or device.
What other reasons have you found for providing digital resources to your groups and group leaders?
Take a look at the Explore the Bible digital resources.