Nine Questions to Consider When Purchasing a New SIS
When considering the options available, ask these questions: |
| 1 |
Are you working with a company that delivers a comprehensive product?
• Is the product integrated so all areas of the district benefit from one time data entry?
• Will it give your district data entry abilities needed for state reporting and NCLB compliance?
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| 2 |
Does the vendor provide implementation services to ease the transition to the new system?
• Does your staff have the technical capabilities to do their own data conversion work?
• Is there a training program available to get users up to speed quickly?
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| 3 |
Does it deliver continuous product innovations without disrupting "business as usual"?
• Does the solution keep up with changing technologies and state regulations?
• Will this system grow as your needs change or will you have to repurchase in three years?
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| 4 |
Is it built using the key elements of a modern SIS?
• Is the system web-based, integrated, and will it truly scale if your district enrollment changes?
• Was the system designed so your district can quickly leverage emerging technologies?
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| 5 |
Is the system safe so your student data is secure?
• Has the system ever been hacked by an outside intruder?
• Does the system’s security meet federal control standards?
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| 6 |
Does your current organization have the bandwidth to manage this new, mission critical system?
• Will you have to pay for hardware improvements or purchase more servers when your SIS upgrades?
• Is your district responsible to purchase replacements if your server fails?
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| 7 |
Does the company have a reputation for fast, accurate responses to support related issues?
• Will additional training be available after implementation?
• Is someone from the SIS assigned to your district to ensure your satisfaction after the sale?
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| 8 |
Does the company have a track record of customer retention?
• Is it important to you and your taxpayers that you buy American?
• Is the company re-investing in itself so it will be viable for the long term or is the focus on short term shareholder value?
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| 9 |
Are there any hidden costs that will affect total cost of ownership?
• What are the ongoing costs after year one?
• Will your district have to pay for additional hardware, support, cost increases after year one and third-party integration costs?
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| By asking these questions and more, your district will benefit from selecting the right system to meet your needs. By selecting the “free” option, you may be paying more than expected without receiving the anticipated satisfaction. For a comprehensive list of questions and checklists to use when making your selection, download the white paper, It's Time - Get What You Pay For. |
