When you decide to employ a Student Information System (SIS) in your organization, it can prove to be a quite challenging task. There are multiple aspects to think of, and it is very possible that you will end up spending quite some time and effort to find what works best for you. However, investing in a well-designed Student Information System can achieve impressive results in running your organization smoother than ever.
The first thing that pops up in your mind when thinking about installing an SIS is how you know that you are choosing the right solution. In this post, we will provide you with answers to the 10 most frequent questions asked when searching for an SIS, while analyzing some important functionalities that the right Student Information System should provide.
Does it accelerate your users’ daily operations?
With the right SIS, day-to-day processes can speed up for all users. Administration employees will be able to manage applications, payments, and other important processes massively and smoothly. Educators will be able to create classes, assignments, and examinations quickly and easily, while also being able to monitor their students’ progress. Finally, students will always have access to their assignments, subjects, and absences, and can always stay on track with the flow of the academic year.
Is it truly cloud-based?
Cloud architecture can help you create a great user experience, while also being prepared for any institutional need that might occur in the future. Additionally, cloud-based IT infrastructure removes the costs and stress of maintaining an on-premises solution.
Is it accessible by anyone and from anywhere?
A proper SIS platform should be compatible with any device and make it easy for users to navigate and find information, whether they are at school or at home. Make sure the platform’s interface is easy to be utilized by everyone, regardless of their personal IT skills.
How easy is it to find, use, and browse information?
The success of your educational organization highly depends on easy access to reliable data. Your SIS should provide your organization and district administrators with the tools they need to create dynamic reports that help data-driven decisions. Categories, search filters, and more tools should be offered to end-users to make your operations even simpler and faster.
How secure is your data?
Cloud-based systems employ comprehensive cybersecurity measures, especially when managing sensitive data such as student records. Before installing a new SIS in your institution, it is important to confirm that it transmits personal data safely to secure networks and stores information securely using passwords and the appropriate data encryption.
Can the SIS be customized based on your needs?
Adding custom fields will allow you to track key details more accurately about your students and staff. Customized options, such as terminology, will be more likely to provide the functionality you need. Moreover, creating custom reports will provide you with valuable information to start making informed decisions.
Does the solution provide 24/7 support?
A key factor in the selection of a Student Information System is the availability of technical support. It is likely that you will need guidance in the first steps of implementing the system, as well as when you need to proceed with small adjustments. Each system has different operational modes, and it will most likely take you some time to become familiar with it. So, make sure that training and technical support are provided to help you along the way.
Are integrations with other systems available?
Out-of-the-box integrations will help your institution both from a financial and timesaving perspective, as it will save you money and time from adopting multiple systems. Moreover, a well-built SIS should also allow you to integrate with other third-party software and offer the proper connectivity between them to exchange information securely. It’s another key factor that will release your IT managers from being overloaded and from having to tie together incompatible software.
Is payment processing part of the system?
Financial management is an important part of your institution’s success. An SIS should provide you with tools that will help track payments from individual students, as well as budgeting, general ledgers, invoices, and receipts. You should be able to create mass billings, collect payments online, and have all the necessary reporting to help you track revenue breakdown.
Does it improve your admission processes?
At the begging of every academic year, thousands of incoming applications are in line, waiting to be evaluated. An easy and simple admission method will untie the administration’s hands. So be sure that your candidate SIS offers applicants a quick procedure to follow when it comes to applying for your institution. Admission officers should have access anytime and must be able to find any type of application individually or massively with no effort.
Wrap up
Before selecting a Student Information System, be sure you do your research. There are many options out there, and you don’t want to get stuck with one that’s not suitable for you. There are several factors to consider when choosing the best SIS system for your educational institution, including importance and variety. Make sure you select an SIS that provides all the capabilities that fit best to your needs and requirements.
FAQ’s
Cloud-based SIS offers accessibility, scalability, and cost-effectiveness, ensuring seamless access to information from anywhere, while eliminating the need for on-premises maintenance and infrastructure.
A robust SIS should utilize encryption, secure networks, and password protection to safeguard student records and personal data, ensuring compliance with data privacy regulations.
Yes, Classter’s SIS offers integrations with third-party software, facilitating seamless data exchange and enhancing overall efficiency and productivity.
