We did names with phone numbers which was a good thing because my husband's handwriting is horrible and they took down the wrong name. It worked out well otherwise.

When we did the auction as an evening night thing where people paid for tickets (almost all in advance), we knew who was coming, but they had to check in, and they got a program with their bidding number on the back cover (big enough to see for the live auction).

This year we did it at a daytime carnival, and it wasn't worth it to us to try to check everyone in, so we did names and telephone numbers.

I'm certainly not against using numbers, but there's never been enough benefit (for us) to add the extra step.

We haven't seen who's bidding on what to be negative. Everyone knows it's "for charity". If anything, it breeds friendly competition.

But if you think using numbers would get you higher bids, then it's not a big step to add.

We use numbers for anonimity. Some people would be reluctant to bid against someone they know and some people would be mad to find who bid against them! Not saying that it's right but I think that's how it is. And yes, then you do need people to check them in but it can be done easily. Just have a quick sign up sheet and scraps of paper for them to write down their assigned number so they don't forget it. Name and phone number is all the info you really need.

OK friends, this should be the last question -- at least for today.

I have been going back and forth on trying to use names or numbers when bidding on the silent auction. I have gotten different ideas from various people and I just need to settle this last issue.

If I use numbers, I need people to check in. This will take more volunteers and might deter bidders. If I use names, then it will be easier for people to bid but it may be more difficult to police the bidding.

which one would you use and why?