How do I install the software?
Last Updated on Wednesday, 20 June 2012 17:10
A user name, password, or login is NOT required to download, install, or use this software.
The software program install file downloaded from the website will be an "exe" file - that simply means that the file name ends in ".exe". Regardless whether you're installing the program for the first time or updating one that's already installed, the same install file is used. Save it to your hard drive. Doesn't matter where you save it, just remember where. You may want to create a special folder that contains software install files that you've downloaded.
Even though the installation process for a new install is the same as for updating an existing system, the data file will not be harmed during the update install process ... but you do plan to first back it up before updating, don't you?
After the install file is downloaded, exit the website and all other programs that are open, then using Windows Explorer find and double click the "exe" file. It will begin the installation by displaying a welcome screen, followed by the software usage license agreement, followed by a short explanation of what will take place during the installation process. You can exit if you disagree with the license or the install process description.
During a new install, the install program will create the necessary folders, copy files into them, make an entry in the Windows start menu, and place a shortcut startup icon on the desktop. During an update install, existing program and help files will be replaced with a later version ... the data file will not be disturbed.
All JwSoftworks programs run on Windows XP, Vista, or Windows 7. They require Microsoft’s 32 bit version of Access 2007 or 2010 database program or either version’s free runtime. The Microsoft website link for downloading free runtimes is given in the forum (see topic on Microsoft Access Runtime).
The Secretary
Last Updated on Friday, 22 June 2012 11:11
Software Version is March, 2012a
The Secretary is a freeware program written for the congregation secretary. It accepts entry of all three date formats – USA (m/d/y), Euro (d/m/y), and Other (y/m/d). It manages all necessary publisher contact and activity information; provides for entry, reporting, summary, and analysis of monthly field service activity.
It contains many screen displays and printed reports. Special reports are designed for individual or batch reporting activity of Pioneers, Servants, CO visits, End-of-month, End-of-year, HLC, and DPA’s. Creates address lists, phone lists, email lists, emergency and disaster contact lists, etc., grouped by congregation or by service groups. Exported publisher contact and card information can be used for mail merge, printing labels, etc. Also prints header and monthly ministry activity information directly on publisher cards. Tracks 29 areas of publisher activity using simple check boxes.
*** This release adds the new capability of transferring contact information to an Android Smartphone.
The Overseer
Last Updated on Wednesday, 02 May 2012 20:33
Software Version is June, 2011
The Overseer is freeware designed to assist elders and group overseers with up-to-date publisher contact information. Seven screens display simple contact information grouped in logical categories. A newly added section in this release tracks shepherding appointments and activity.
Publisher Contact Information
The source of publisher contact information is contained in a special file generated by congregation secretaries who already use the software program called The Secretary.
Printed Reports & Labels
Contact lists, phone lists, and labels can be created for the congregation or for your group. Labels are for those who like to use them when distributing monthly KM’s and WT’s.
If Updating From a Previous Version That Did Not Include Shepherding
Delete the existing data file before installing this update version. If you already have a version with shepherding, DO NOT delete the data file.
The Assigner
Last Updated on Wednesday, 06 February 2013 11:14
Software Version is March, 2010
Please note that a decision has been made to not update The Assigner software. The Assigner was developed in 2009 and is in need of update work ... but the time available to do so is not available!
BothThe Secretary and The Overseer software will continue to receive full attention.
The Assigner is freeware designed to assist congregation elders or ministerial servants with the scheduling of groups and brothers for Kingdom Hall maintenance and meeting attendant duty.
Very little keyboard data entry is necessary – about 30 names.
The Scheduler
Last Updated on Wednesday, 06 February 2013 11:15
Software Version is December, 2010
Please note that a decision has been made to not update The Scheduler software. The Scheduler was developed in 2008 and is in need of some serious update work but the time available to do so is not available!
BothThe Secretary and The Overseer software will continue to receive full attention.
The Scheduler is freeware that manages all public talk schedule arrangements, stores other congregation's contacts and meeting time information, prints reports suitable for posting, also for distribution to elders, to incoming and outgoing speakers, to congregation members, and to other congregation’s talk coordinators. The program has 25 help files including an Appendix Cross Reference Listing.
This update will create a new installation or update an existing one.