Managing multiple sources of information in an independent K-12 private school: a case study in a student information systems evaluation

Abstract

Information is everywhere and finding the best method to manage it is a problem that all types of organizations have to deal with. Schools use Student Information Systems (SIS) to manage Student Data, Financial Information, Development, Human Resources, Admission, Financial Aid, Enrollment, Scheduling, and Health Information. A survey of 107 Independent private schools showed that within these institutions many manage information in a number of databases ranging from a single database to as many as 15 different databases. The study revealed that individual departments within the schools have often found solutions that supported individual business processes and many schools are satisfied with these methods for managing information, but were not very happy with the systems in place.

While research exists about how higher education institutions manage information with enterprise resource systems and the processes they use for implementation, no research has been done about independent schools that lack the resources of university or school districts. Studies of literature show that evaluations often lead organization to implement a major update or to implement a new software solution. This process can be quite complex and independent K-12 private schools often do not the knowledge about how to conduct this process. Using a mixed methods approach through an examination of literature, a case study, survey, and individual communication with independent schools has aided in developing a sample plan for this process. The research is divided between the ways that schools manage information and the methods for evaluation of school's information systems and successful implementation strategies for a new system or update.