Q What’s the background to Diosys? 

A The solution was designed and built by 3rd Sector Digital (3SD) about 3 years ago. Westminster was our partner in testing it and was the first to go live. We saw this as a modern extension to the online directories that 3SD already supported, and one which exploited the emerging world of web/data ‘mash-ups’ (in this case with Google Maps).

Q Who would own and control my diocese’s data? 

A With Diosys the data is still owned and controlled by the diocese locally. 3SD own the solution and provide the service; the data won’t belong to us.

Q How would my diocese’s data get on the system?

A For most dioceses, we would set up an online database with an easy-to-use web interface. Data about schools and churches (e.g. addresses, mass times, priests) would be entered using a pre-designed template; a photo could also be uploaded.

Q Is there anything else my diocese would need to do?

A At the start, you’d need to check the ‘geo-coding’, to make sure the church/school appears exactly where it should do on the map. After that, you’d just keep your data up to date. We could also give you features that would allow you to manage the data as part of your diocesan directory/yearbook.

Q How will dioceses be able to influence developments?

A We have easy-to-use online tools, which allow users to share ideas about Diosys and provide feedback. We’d also have an annual user group event, perhaps in the wings of other national meetings.

Q How simple would it be to have our diocese’s map appear on a website?

A Dead simple. We’ll just supply you with a bit of code that can be embedded in any parish or school website, and Diosys will appear.

Q How will the cost structure work?

A Costs will vary depending on the size of the diocese (which will influence how much data they have). There will be an up-front fee for development work, then an ongoing fee for hosting and management. Once we have all dioceses on board, certain costs can be spread to keep prices down.

Q How will dioceses be able to get involved?

A To begin, we will be writing to dioceses to invite them to be part of Diosys – and help build the map of Catholic England, Wales and Britain in the process. We’re hoping to do this with the support of the respective Bishops’ Conferences. Initially, we’d like to form a group of pathfinder dioceses, who could help us to clarify needs and design specifications.

Q What features will be available? Will everything happen at once?

A We would imagine taking it a bit at a time, perhaps starting with English and Welsh dioceses first. We’d also start just with parish and school data (events, say, would be added subsequently). Once we’ve got the web version sorted, we’d then go live with the smart phone version. Costs would reflect this phasing.

Q How can I find out more?

A Email Paul at paul@3rdsectordigital.com, ring him on 0791 775 8594, or ring our freephone number on 0800 019 6875, and we'd be happy to give you a demo and to talk about your diocese.

You can also download and read the attached PDF, which will give you a good understanding of Diosys.