DICO – District Internet Communication Officer
It would be beneficial for multiple Rotarians in each district to come forward as District Internet Communication Officers (DICO). Following the introduction of Polaris in 2021, the CICOs of the clubs need a centralized contact point to resolve any issues that may occur.
A DICO doesn't have to be an IT specialist, but should have a strong grasp of Polaris and a genuine enthusiasm for it. The responsibilities listed below can be shared among the DICOs in a district. Working together with DICOs from other districts, even those in different countries, is encouraged.
The DICO …
is an active member in a Rotary Club located in their district.
is confirmed in their role by the Governor and the Governor-elect.
signs a non-disclosure agreement (NDA) for data protection.
gains extensive access rights for Polaris and RedMine, which will be revoked upon their resignation.
A DICO has a strong profile
DICO activities for the Rotary Clubs
Conducts yearly training sessions for secretaries and CICOs about Polaris (ideally in May or September).
Encourages members of the club to make the most of all functionalities of Polaris.
Responds to email inquiries that are sent to the district's DICO email address.
Regularly assesses the club websites in the district and offers insights to CICOs and/or the secretaries.
Regular training is important
There are many tasks for the DICO in the district
Collaborates effectively with the secretariat and offers assistance, especially during the transition of officers in the boards and committees across the district and special clubs.
Manages the district's website and removes unnecessary content from the clubs.
Assists in coordinating district activities in Polaris (seminar for new Rotarians, PETS, conferences).
Participates in council sessions and informs members (DG, DGE, DGN) about the recent updates regarding Polaris and its use within the district.
Attends PETS and motivates the new presidents and secretaries to select a skilled CICO to guarantee the effective utilization of Polaris within the club.
Reaches out to active CICOs in the district, organizes online meetings with them, and helps them gain access to the RedMine ticketing platform.
The collaboration with the district is significant
The DICO cooperates with the Polaris Team
Attends the regular meetings of the DICOs with the Polaris team and contributes valuable insights from his work with the clubs.
Executes the Polaris updates in his district by informing and inspiring the clubs.
Evaluates the concerns raised by the clubs and reports bugs or creative suggestions to the Polaris team through RedMine tickets, making sure to verify for duplicates in advance.
The contact with the Polaris team is motivating
FAQ
What is the role of a District Internet Communication Officer (DICO)?
A DICO serves as a centralized contact point for resolving issues related to Polaris and supports Rotary Clubs in their district.
Do I need to be an IT specialist to become a DICO?
No, a DICO does not need to be an IT specialist, but should have a strong understanding of Polaris and enthusiasm for it.
What are the responsibilities of a DICO?
DICOs conduct training sessions, respond to inquiries, assess club websites, manage the district's website, and coordinate district activities.
Is there a non-disclosure agreement involved for DICOs?
Yes, DICOs are required to sign a non-disclosure agreement (NDA) for data protection.
How can DICOs collaborate with each other?
DICOs are encouraged to work together with DICOs from other districts, even those in different countries.
What access rights do DICOs gain?
DICOs gain extensive access rights for Polaris and RedMine, which will be revoked upon their resignation.
What kind of training do DICOs provide?
DICOs conduct yearly training sessions for secretaries and CICOs about Polaris, ideally in May or September.
How do DICOs assist with district activities?
DICOs assist in coordinating district activities in Polaris, such as seminars for new Rotarians and conferences.
What is the process for reporting issues to the Polaris team?
DICOs evaluate concerns raised by clubs and report bugs or suggestions to the Polaris team through RedMine tickets.