As a bespoke data management service provider, The ONTO Group, has recently experienced a substantial increase in the number of schools seeking new Management Information System (MIS) solutions.
MIS solutions are required to ensure the filing of key information such as pupil/staff data, Timetables, Exam Results, and Assessments. They underpin the effective management of educational establishments
The ONTO Group’s Customer Success Director and Co-Founder Neil Gregory commented on the recent surge in demand and said:
“MIS solutions are often implemented initially to collate and record data in an attempt to reduce administrative time and support day-to-day operations. However, when used to their full potential they can be a powerful tool to inform strategies and aid decision-making. Although many schools have already made the switch, they have done so with little or no information on the advantages and disadvantages of each of the systems that they are faced with – one solution does not fit all.
“We are seeing many schools choosing to migrate to a system, which is more suited to those with a requirement for data to be accessed remotely. This preference for cloud-based data management grew of course through the pandemic and we are seeing the continuation of this as school staff appreciate the flexibility of access that some of the new systems are affording.
“When sourcing MIS, a key consideration is multi-level analysis, the ability of the system to handle data across multiple schools such as required by Multi-Academy Trusts, allowing a wider group perspective, and facilitating the sharing of key information such as School Demographics, Attendance, and behaviour data. Furthermore, increased functionality is key, as well as the statutory recording, you should be able to utilise your chosen MIS to remove many of the cumbersome, time-consuming tasks, as well as introducing new systems of analysis and 360 feedback and measurement, providing data to have a positive impact on pupil outcomes.
“Should the decision be made to move to another MIS system, then the migration of the data, and how this is managed is a further matter for discussion. It also offers an ideal opportunity for data cleansing. Done professionally, this should be stress-free and seamless, with no loss of data.”
Neil Gregory has extensive expertise in providing IT consultancy support for educational establishments. Neil founded the group in 2019 with James Treacy who has a strong track record in developing highly-successful businesses. The ONTO group work as a family to offer schools a personalised experience by tailoring services to the needs of their customers. The ONTO group understand how demanding the education environment can be and work closely with schools to provide a supportive and effective relationship.
