Blesma Connects was launched just over two years ago. Its goal was to provide an App that would enable Members to better connect with each other, to book onto Activities and to receive news and information about the Association.
It would be fair to say that the App has not achieved its ambition. Take up amongst Members is low, functionality which was due to be developed has not taken place and cheaper and better web-based alternatives are now widely available.
Blesma Connect the App was launched shortly prior to the pandemic which saw a pause in all Blesma Activities. Whilst the App struggled to find its purpose during the pandemic Members continued to use freely available platforms to connect and communicate with each other and with staff e.g. Facebook and Discord.
We now have a new cheaper and easier way which Members will be able to book digitally onto Activities which will launch shortly using a Jotform which is essentially a smart online form. We will be communicating with Members how to use a Jotform shortly.
Blesma has recently appointed a new UK-based digital agency and this has provided an opportunity for us to decide whether Blesma should continue to invest in the running and development of the App, or whether we are better to switch to a web-based model which is cheaper and easier. The Board of Trustees and Management have decided that the latter is the best option. As a result the App will not transfer to our new agency in late August and will essentially be switched off. We will provide a more exact time nearer to the switch off date.
The connectivity between Blesma and its Members themselves is far wider and greater than any App. We meet face to face and online using a variety of platforms, we produce a quarterly magazine, our Support and Outreach Officers keep in contact with their Members and we organise national and international Activities. We will continue to do this whilst looking at better ways for Members to engage digitally.
If you have any questions, comments about this decision please do not hesitate to contact us.
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