OutbidX Team · December 1, 2025 · 6 min read
Bringing Order to the Chaos
The paddle raise (or "fund-a-need") is often the biggest revenue generator of the night, sometimes surpassing the silent auction. However, manually recording numbers on clipboards, deciphering handwriting, and reconciling spreadsheets at midnight is prone to error and incredibly stressful.
Live auction software changes the game by digitizing the clerking process.
Key Features for Galas
- Floor Bid Recording: The signed-in organizer records an in-room paddle bid, including the paddle number and reason. Accepted entries update connected screens; verify the connection and rehearse before the event. Separate volunteer permission accounts are not provided.
- Projector Displays: Show the current lot, optional leading-lot board and contribution-goal progress. Pledged contributions and accepted bid amounts are not collected proceeds; reconcile payments separately.
- Payment Readiness: Signing in alone does not save a card. Online bidders complete card setup and authorization before an accepted card bid. OutbidX collects winning item payments at settlement; floor cash awards remain cash due until the organizer confirms collection. Check each purchase’s payment status before handing over an item.
Hybrid Bidding: The Best of Both Worlds
What about donors who couldn't attend the gala? OutbidX accepts guests’ own online bids alongside organizer-recorded floor bids. Choose hybrid at creation to carry silent bids into the live session. Explain which screen guests should use, rehearse pause/resume and keep floor cash collection separate from card payments.
Payment Receipts
A confirmed card payment creates a purchase receipt in OutbidX and queues an email receipt. Email delivery can take time. Failed payments require follow-up before pickup.