Nationwide

Smart Systems, Safer Info: Why We Are Upgrading Our IT Behind the Scenes

12 May 2025

News

We talk a lot about the care and support we offer at camp every year. After all, that’s what it’s all about. But behind the scenes, there is so much more throughout the year happening that’s important to ensuring a great volunteer and camper experience – and our IT and info management systems are part of that.  

Right now, we’re undergoing a very exciting improvement project with Unisphere, a company with expertise in information management, to get our digital systems running smoothly. The goal? Make life easier for volunteers, ensure sensitive information is protected, and streamline how the organisation manages data across all regions.

James Dickinson, Unisphere’s Managing Director, says the work is about more than just folders and files. “Our main goals are to simplify onboarding for new volunteers, reduce the admin burden for everyone, and make sure we’re handling personal information with the utmost care,” he explains.

With a background supporting nonprofits like the SPCA, SupLife, and the Auckland Theatre Company, James and his team are well-versed in building systems that work for busy, volunteer-led organisations. Here’s what their collaboration with CQ is all about.

Making Tech Easy for Volunteers

Many of the improvements are focused on volunteers – the lifeblood of Camp Quality. That includes building a system that’s intuitive, easy to navigate, and tailored to each person’s role.

“We want volunteers to be able to find what they need quickly and without frustration,” James says. “The people involved with Camp Quality are there because they care. The last thing we want is for technology to get in their way.”

Unisphere first walked us through a discovery phase. The CQ Board worked with their tech teams to understand what information is being collected, how it’s being stored, and what could be improved to make it more secure and easier to find.

Now, they’re beginning to construct a more careful, strategic system for all our data and storage.

Privacy, Protection, and Peace of Mind

Another key priority is information governance. With sensitive details like medical notes and photos involved in service delivery, privacy is non-negotiable.

“We’re making sure that everything is protected, and that Camp Quality is meeting – or exceeding – expectations around privacy and data handling,” James says. “We also set up role-based access, so volunteers only see the information that’s relevant to them. It’s safer and simpler that way.”

This kind of system doesn’t just protect data – it builds trust. Families and whānau can feel confident that their child’s information is treated with respect and care.

Giving Back with Expertise

James and his team aren’t just IT professionals – they’re passionate supporters of the nonprofit sector, and have a personal connection to Camp Quality’s mission.

“I’m a cancer survivor, and so is Eleanor on our team,” he shares. “We understand how important this kind of work is, and love what Camp Quality does. Being involved with this project, having the opportunity to do what we do best to help, is our way of giving back.”

As the new system rolls out across Camp Quality’s regions, the benefits will ripple far beyond the back office. Less admin time means more energy for camp. And more time for what really matters: laughter, connection, and unforgettable memories for our campers.