Samaritan Releases Version 6.9.3 of their Volunteer Management Software

SALT LAKE CITY, UT - This evening, 15 October 2010, Samaritan Technologies will unveil a new version, 6.9.3, of their Software as a Service (SaaS) Volunteer Management System.  The new features originate from client requests, new technology advancements, and HIPAA security rules.  The release follows industry standard development practices.  The features have been designed and review by a committee and tested by Samaritan's Quality Assurance Department. 

Tonight, after the Development Department upgrades, the SaaS server staff from several Departments will test both new and existing functionality.  This process helps to ensure fidelity with previous releases.  No new releases are launched until the QA Manager is secure with the software.  This entails a "freeze" on code changes and a period of no severe bugs prior to a release.

There are several new features and enhancements in 6.9.3.  The Technical Writing Department has prepared both a written summary of new functionality as well as three short, 5 minute videos.  Click here to review the "Release Notes."   Juan Rivero, QA Manager, is excited for two of the usability upgrades.  He thinks, "Optimization to the calendar have sped up the system noticeably, and I believe clients who utilize the calendar will appreciate the increased speed."   He stated also that the additions to the Account History tab should prove useful as security and identification tools.  While this information was available in the past as part of the server log, it can now be accessed by System Administrators and no longer requires server level access.

6.9.3 also introduces a new Calendar Grid View.  A State Parks' Camp Host program plans on using the grid to more readily review slot openings and placements.  Camp Host Volunteers are placed into one (1) month slots at parks throughout the state.  The new view facilitates the need to view extended schedule slots.  The new view, similar to the Data Grid Views, will allow users to access data in a spreadsheet format.

This new grid also adds the ability to send e-mails based on the volunteer or an opportunity's schedule.  These e-mails could be sent manually or automatically, using the Automatic E-mail Alert System.  Potential uses might include sending a reminder e-mail to participants before the event, a thank you after the event, or a reminder to report service or hours.

Client Services Manager, Bob Henline is excited about the new Client Portal.  The new portal will allow "clients," the recipients of the volunteer service, to sign up on a Samaritan customer's website using eRecruiter.  Once signed up the information will flow directly into the eCoordinator account.  Just like new volunteers, the new clients will appear in an eCoordinator user's Inbox ready to be assessed and placed with a Service Opportunity and Volunteer. 

A Mentoring program plans on registering their recipients of mentoring services, colloquially called "mentees," through the Client Portal.  Bob explains that, "By using the Client Portal they will streamline their process, saving both time and money."  The new Client Portal could become very useful to any organization or agency that uses volunteers to provide direct service to clients.  Combine the functionality of the Client Portal, Refer/Place System, and Surveys and an organization or agency could register, manage, and track the outcomes of their program.

Samaritan continues to build and refine software dedicated to the advancement of volunteer service throughout the world.