Management Information Systems (MIS) sit at the heart of any school or Multi-Academy Trust (MAT), so when the time comes to switch, you want to feel confident you are making the right choice.
Functionality is rightly a major factor in the decision-making process. Selecting a cloud-based MIS, like IRIS Ed:gen, that can automate processes to save time, while providing powerful analytics to support informed decision making is key to success.
However, implementation and support also warrant careful consideration. So, for smoother switching, be sure to ask vendors these three questions…
1 | What does MIS implementation look like?
At IRIS, we blend Agile and Waterfall project management methodologies to ensure switching to IRIS Ed:gen is pain-free.
Waterfall outlines a single, long-term goal and resources needed to deliver it over an extended period. Agile is an evolution of Waterfall focusing on small objectives across shorter timeframes, which offers more opportunity to adapt as you go.
Our approach sets the long-term goal of implementing your new MIS but utilises checkpoints along the way to enable change as requirements evolve.
2 | What is the step-by-step process?
Our Agile Waterfall process is split into two phases.
Phase one: Initially, we focus on your core data, extracting and importing the crucial information on your school/MAT, pupils, and staff.
Phase one training: Post initial data transfer, we progress with personalised training adapted to your specific needs. Using a variety of in-person training, webinars, and screen-shares, we ensure everyone is comfortable and confident using the system.
Phase two: After getting to grips with IRIS Ed:gen, we import your legacy information, including previous assessment and attendance data. This import of historic data happens in the background, meaning you can continue using the system with no interruption.
Phase two training: The second phase of training focuses on more situational tasks, such as organising cover, running assessments, and sorting exams – crucial aspects but not the day-to-day.
3 | What about my data?
Concerns over data – and the work involved in moving it across – are a key blocker to switching MIS for many schools and MATs.
Check with your chosen provider which data they migrate – for example, will you be able to bring assessment data with you? We tackle data as a partnership, using our expertise to help you streamline the work required.
To learn more, download our eBook – Implementing a new MIS: Your guide to getting it right.
