Salmon Arm Recreation is introducing new recreation management software, and some local users are concerned about sharing their personal information with a U.S.-based company.
Phillip James, a regular pool user, said he is hesitant to register for the system set to launch this fall. Residents and returning users with a Salmon Arm Recreation pass card are asked to create a new account at salmonarmrecreation.finnlyconnect.com by Monday, August 25. Registration requires providing a name, email, phone number, emergency contact, and address. Canadian users must enter “BC” under the “State” field and their postal code under “Zip.” No financial information is needed.
James noted that the “state” and “zip” fields raised concerns. He said he is uneasy about the software being managed by Finnly Sport, a company based in Minneapolis, Minnesota.
“It’s obviously an American company doing it, and in these days… I’m concerned they’re not doing something about that like using a Canadian company,” James said. He added that he fears his information might be sent across the border.
Not all users need to register a new account. Drop-in users and most user groups already have accounts. User groups are advised to check with their scheduling contact before creating a new account.
Darin Gerow, general manager of Salmon Arm Recreation, said the previous system, also from the U.S., was outdated and caused issues with accounting, scheduling, and programming. He explained that the new software is designed specifically for recreational use, covering sports fields, arenas, pools, and program scheduling.
“There’s a large niche for it, and the one we selected has been tested and shown to help our patrons,” Gerow said. “It’s easier to use. There will be challenges, but we are prepared to address them.”
Regarding privacy concerns, Gerow emphasized that Salmon Arm Recreation reviewed the software for compliance with its Personal Information Protection Policy. The system aligns with the Personal Information Protection Act (PIPA) of British Columbia.
“Users have already given excellent feedback on the interface and simplicity,” Gerow said.
The upgrade offers additional benefits, including a return of the designated dressing room monitor at Rogers Rink, allowing teams to see which rooms are assigned. Users will also be able to check the availability of ice or sports fields and request bookings online.
“Previously, users had to call to check availability,” Gerow explained. “Now they can sign in and see open slots for ice or sports fields, and request their bookings directly.”
The software upgrade aims to streamline recreation management and enhance user experience while addressing privacy concerns and modernizing the system for easier scheduling.
