We’ve recently released a major upgrade to the RegisterNation system and, unlike most other upgrades where things just happen automatically, we need your participation. Or at least we need you to make sure things are set up as you want them.

Here are a few of the more significant additions in Version 2 (if you already have access to these features, you’re already on Version 2 and can ignore all of this).

• More customizable forms. You have much more control over the information you collect in your registration form.
• Recurring payment. Add a recurring payment option to your events you can automatically bill on a weekly or monthly basis. See this post for more info.
• Send invoices. Send payment reminders to registrants who owe you money directly through Registernation.
• Better search. Search for registrants by last name, first name, email, and other fields.
• Custom backgrounds. Bring your Web site and RegisterNation closer together by adding a custom background color or image. Soon you’ll be able to do it on your own– but for now email your background file or color choice to info@registernation.com and we’ll get it up for you.

What you need to do
There are two things you need to do when you’re ready to make the transition. First, you need to upgrade your account by selecting “Version 2″ in the “Manage Business Info” section (click on the link at the top of every admin page). Second, you’ll need to adjust your form fields in the “Form Design” tab that will appear after you upgrade.

If you want to allow registrants to pay automatically with their credit card, you’ll also need to add “Enhanced Recurring Payments” to your PayPal account (it’s $20 per month and can be done through your PayPal account). Otherwise registrants will need to pay recurring payments directly from their PayPal balance.

Because there are changes to the registration form (even if you collect the exact same information), we recommend that you make the switch between seasons or events or when there’s a break in your registrations. You can always access registrants from the “Version 1″ system but it’s cleaner if all registrants for a given event come through on the same version.

Oh, and there’s no additional charge from RegisterNation to use any of these new features. We’re eager to help so let us know if you have any questions, feedback, or suggestions!