FreeShow Training Guide

1. Introduction to Open Source and ChurchApps.org

Duration: 10 minutes

What is Open Source?

• Cost-effective solution - no licensing or subscription fees
• Community-driven development ensuring features churches actually need
• Transparency and security through open code
• Practice at home - Install on any computer to learn at your own pace

ChurchApps.org Ecosystem

• Integrated tools working together seamlessly
• Comprehensive support and resources
• Active community engagement

Learning Resources

• Extensive online documentation
• Garry B's video tutorials and "FreeShow Fridays" weekly Q&A sessions
• Active community support:
  • Reddit Community
  • Facebook Group

2. Basic FreeShow Operations

Duration: 15 minutes

Interface Navigation

• Using arrow keys, spacebar, or mouse pointer for slide control
• Understanding the outputs: primary screen and stage screen, including how to turn them on/off

Working with Songs and Sermons

• Finding and selecting songs from the library
• Adding new songs:
  • Inputting lyrics
  • Setting verse/chorus markers
  • Saving to library
• Creating sermon slides:
  • Adding sermon points and scripture references
  • Organizing multiple sections
  • Quick editing during service
• Managing presentation flow:
  • Moving between songs and sermon sections
  • Reordering slides as needed

3. Media Management

Duration: 10 minutes

• Adding new media files:
  • Supported file formats
  • File organization best practices
  • Media storage locations
• Troubleshooting common media issues

4. Streaming Setup Overview

Duration: 5 minutes

• NDI and OBS Integration:
  • NDI (Network Device Interface) basics:
    • Requires NDI Tools installation on all computers using NDI - Download NDI Tools here
  • Connection to OBS
• YouTube Streaming:
  • How to set up a quick stream:
    • Starting stream through OBS
  • How to properly end a stream:
    • Stopping stream in OBS
  • Basic troubleshooting steps

5. Hands-on Practice

Duration: 5 minutes

• Simulated service run-through
• Common scenario practice:
  • Changing slides in different ways
  • Adding a new song
  • Creating sermon slides
  • Setting up and ending a YouTube stream
• Emergency procedure review