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Stop making the things you measure important, instead start taking what's important and measure it.

Numbers are a fascinating thing to me. They are so absolute yet just like words can take on all sorts of meaning depending on where you get them and how you present them. In communications numbers are a vital part of receiving feedback to what you do. Especially when dealing with the online landscape. They tell you if people like, read, share, and ultimately respond to your message. They can inform you if you are wasting your time or maybe even doing an awesome job.

2013 was a big year for me and the creative & communications team I am privileged of working alongside here at YWAM Newcastle. It took a lot of hard work and prayer through 2012 and into 2013 but the results surprised even me. Those included us seeing a 128% increase in web site traffic from 2012 to 2013 and a 342% increase in enquiries to our training schools. Though the main highlight was the start of our largest training school in our history this January. As a result we are being asked lately for what we think some of the keys to this growth have been. While this list is not extensive, I thought I would share just a few that I have been able to pick out as I look back on these past few years.

The caution that marks our speech must also mark our texting, our emailing, our commenting, our blogging, & our tweeting. @Challies #socialmedia.

If you have been...

Have you ever had thousands of teenage girls turn around and look at you with absolute jealousy? This was me last year as my wife and I were being handed vip wristbands by one of Taylor Swift's dancers. As I stood leaning against the stage all I could think about was "Why couldn't I have had these seats when I saw Coldplay in the same arena a year earlier!". Though as the show went on I was impressed at this young ladies ability to entertain and connect with the crowd in front of her. This was not just your ordinary pop star.