The RNLI is the largest charity that provides sea rescue services in the UK and Ireland. It operates over 230 lifeboat stations and 330 lifeboats and lifeguard units, supported by over 7,600 operational volunteers and 35,000 fundraising volunteers, as well as 1,500 full-time staff. In 2011, the RNLI rescued over 7,900 people through 8,905 launches. The RNLI relies on voluntary contributions as it receives no government funding. The Finance and Information Systems Director at the RNLI discussed the charity's IT strategy, which focuses on providing seamless service to customers while saving lives at sea in a cost-effective manner, though numerous issues around managing expectations, communication, and financial oversight were also addressed