Frequently Asked Questions

• How long has Innovative Mentoring Software been used?
  Used successfully since 2002.
• How many other organizations are using Innovative Mentoring Software?
  Since new clients join us on a regular basis, visit our client list page to see the other organizations that are currently using our software.
• What is the system's up-time?
  Greater than 99%
• What are the technical specifications?
  Since our Innovative Mentoring Software is web-based, it only requires a computer with an Internet connection. Your data is encrypted and secure with a 128-bit SSL secure certificate, the same encryption used for online banking and shopping. A High-speed Internet connection is recommended.
• What are the Internet web browser specifications?
  The new version supports Mozilla Firefox, Internet Explorer 8 or higher, Google Chrome and Safari. We recommend Mozilla Firefox. Internet Explorer users will experience decreased performance compared with the other browsers.
• Can I access the database on a Macintosh (Apple) computer?
  Yes, Mozilla Firefox, Google Chrome and Safari 3 or higher are supported by our software for Apple Macintosh computers.
• How soon can I get started?
  Once we receive your payment, signed agreement letter, and set-up questionnaire, we can schedule your free training session in as little as two weeks, depending on your staff's schedule.
• What is the average size of the mentoring organizations that use the software? Is there a limit to the number of matches that the software supports?
  On average, our clients have 2-5 full-time staff. There is no limit to the number of matches that you can create in the software. We want you to have as many matches as possible!
• Define system security.
  
  • 128-bit encryption (the same used in online banking and shopping websites).
  • Professional hosting in a secure data center located in the US with the latest security updates and 24-7 on-site security.
  • Strong passwords are required for each user with access to the database. Passwords must be changed every 60 days.
  • Session time-outs so that if a staff member steps away from the computer and doesn’t remember to close the database, the database will automatically log out after a certain time period, preventing unauthorized use of the database.
  • Specific database address are kept private and are only known to your organization.
• What are the hours of support?
  Normal business hours for support (Mon-Friday, 9-5 Central time). Non-business hour support available for emergencies or special situations (international clients, etc).
• What is the range of custom options available?
  
  • Utilizing our set-up questionnaire, you can determine the data collection fields you need to manage your program and report to funders. Custom fields for contacts, mentors, mentees, donors, and organizations are available. These fields are automatically available for flexible reporting.
  • Additionally, certain data fields in the software are "combo" boxes, which allow you to assign new field options at any time or select from the existing list.
  • You can also create your own custom "labels" for contacts, mentors, mentees, donors, and organizations at any time for your own flexible searches & reports.
• What is the range of reports available with the standard package?
  

  Flexible Reporting

  Limitless possibilities for reporting using the comprehensive search & reporting section of the database. Specify criteria to get the information you are looking for. Flexible reports can be exported to Microsoft Excel for further data manipulation. Here are some example:

  • Number of matched, waiting, or prospective volunteers or kids (any combination: matched kids only, matched volunteers only, waiting kids only, matched kids aged 14-15, matched boys, matched male volunteer, waiting male volunteers, matched and waiting volunteers, matched and waiting kids, etc.)
  • Number of matched kids from a particular school or case worker
  • Matches that have lasted a specified time period

  Formal Reports

  • Match Length
  • Match Statistics
  • Mentee Statistics
  • Mentor Statistics
  • Mentee Demographics (including any custom fields you have defined)
  • Mentor Demographics (including any custom fields you have defined)
  • Communication by Period
  • Activities by Period
  • OLDC Quarterly Report (for MCP grantees)
• Can we get custom reports?
  Yes! Depending on complexity, custom reports are available for estimated $300-$600 per report. You provide a "mock-up" of the requested report in Microsoft Word or Excel format. We create the report including professional print formatting, and you can run the report using live data at any time.
• How long has Innovative Technology Solutions (the Innovative Mentoring Software parent company) been in business?
  Custom software development for Fortune 500 and mid-sized businesses since 1996; addition of products and services for non-profit and government organizations (75% mentoring) since 2001.