facebook pixel

Why Every Lodge Needs a Digital Forward Planner

28/10/25
Forward Planner in The Working Tools software
Every Masonic Secretary knows the feeling — juggling endless dates, from rehearsals and festive boards to committee meetings and installation nights. Without a structured system, even the most organised Brother can find something slipping through the cracks. That’s why forward planning isn’t just helpful — it’s essential.

The Problem with Manual Planning
Traditional methods, like paper diaries or spreadsheets, worked well in their time but struggle to meet today’s demands.

  • Paper diaries can be lost or outdated. One small mistake can cause confusion across the Lodge.
  • Information is siloed. Only one person can see it, making collaboration difficult.
  • Reminders rely on memory. And even the best memory has its limits.

Without shared access or automation, it’s easy for a rehearsal or report deadline to sneak up unexpectedly — creating stress and unnecessary admin chaos.

Educational Takeaway: Forward Planning as Lodge Strategy
A digital forward planner transforms Lodge management from reactive to proactive.

  • Confidence in the calendar: Every event, rehearsal, and reminder is clearly visible and automatically updated.
  • Delegation made easy: Officers can see what’s coming up and take responsibility for their roles.
  • Focus on fellowship: When admin runs smoothly, the Lodge can dedicate more time to the experience of Masonry itself.

Forward planning isn’t just an admin trick — it’s part of Lodge strategy, ensuring smooth operation and stronger teamwork.

How The Working Tools Helps
The 90-Day Forward Planner built into The Working Tools simplifies this process completely:

  • Centralised Events: All meetings, reminders, and deadlines in one shared digital space.
  • Automated Notifications: Keeps everyone informed without endless messages.
  • Role Delegation: Secretaries can assign responsibilities, ensuring nothing is overlooked.

No more juggling diaries or chasing forgotten dates — just clear, collaborative organisation for every Lodge officer.

Conclusion
Forward planning saves time, reduces stress, and strengthens Lodge reliability. With a digital system like The Working Tools, Secretaries spend less time buried in admin and more time where it counts — building fellowship and preserving tradition.

Download resources: (Meeting Checklist, Draft Minutes Template, New Secretary Guide)
FREE Trial: https://www.theworkingtools.co.uk/free-trial

If you'd like more information on the project, or some support, please chat to us live on WhatsApp or email us at info@theworkingtools.co.uk and our team will get back to you as soon as we can.

Secretary Tools

  • Create & Manage Events
  • Track Attendances
  • Create Table Plans
  • Generate Summons, Minutes & more Easily
  • Track Your Expenses

Lodge Tools

  • Manage Members & Contacts
  • Incoming Candidate Tracker
  • Treasurer's Cash Book
  • Almoner's List
  • DC's Ceremony Planner

Data & Security

  • Business Level Reporting
  • Fully Backed-Up
  • Secure & Encrypted
  • Cloud Based for easy access
  • Mobile Friendly

Lodge Management

  • 90 Day Forward Planner
  • Track Lodge Assets
  • Easy Handover to a successor
  • Assign Delegates to assist
  • Set & Receive Reminders

© The Working Tools 2025
Terms & Conditions - Privacy
The Working Tools Limited (16030647), Fiveways Business Centre, 167 Park Street, Grimsby, North East Lincolnshire, United Kingdom, DN35 7LX