To make the report more accessible for quick reference, an Executive Summary was distilled from the complete document, outlining the process, methodology, findings, and recommendations that resulted from the comprehensive assessment of communication practices, needs, and expectations throughout the Texas Conference. John Wesley, himself, was dedicated to communication that was accurate and thorough, and he used as many words as he thought were necessary to convey his message. In that tradition, in this audit United Methodists in the Texas Conference have used many words to evaluate past efforts and look to the future for many ways to enhance and improve communication of the faith among and to clergy, lay, and the unchurched. Keep in mind that the following is a summary of the Executive Summary of the full audit. General observations Perhaps the most often heard comment during the audit was that local churches want news you can use kind of information.
Information overload is a problem in the church as well as in society in general.
There is a need for being able to scan, file, and retrieve information with more ease. The Conference Web site is suited for this role. There is a need for the Conference office to focus on key messages. Fewer overall themes regarding what the Conference sees as important would result in less noise, more focus, and more unity of purpose. While initiatives regarding electronic communication is important, printed materials should not be abandoned.