Insight Unlocked: Uncovering the Obstacles to Better Data Management

Unveiling key themes from Insight Unlocked: Discover how your insights can shape the future of data management in schools – join our survey and share your perspective today

To take part in our white paper research, click here: White Paper Research in partnership with SIMS – SBL Survey 

In our previous article, we introduced an exciting collaboration between Education Executive and SIMS to explore the key challenges and opportunities related to data use and management, as identified by you – the education community.

As part of this initiative, we encourage you to participate in our SBL survey which is now live. By sharing your insights, you’ll help us gain a deeper understanding of the data management obstacles schools face.

In this next article in our series, we examine the issues of cost, complexity, and connectivity in school data systems, offering a closer look at their impact and exploring potential solutions.

Complex, Disconnected Systems

Schools often use multiple systems that don’t integrate well, leading to time-consuming tasks like cross-referencing data and manual entry. For school business leaders, this means spending countless hours on administrative tasks instead of focusing on strategic priorities.

In an era where data should empower decision-making, the fragmented nature of these systems also often undermines the ability to generate actionable insights. Instead of providing a clear, holistic view of the school’s operations, these disconnected systems create barriers that make it difficult to analyse trends, identify challenges, or seize opportunities.

Cost and Procurement

Procuring data systems for schools is often complex and time-intensive with a vast array of options on the market, each claiming to address specific needs but often lacking clarity on their true capabilities and limitations. Without a clear understanding of what’s available or what will be most beneficial, the process becomes even more challenging. For school leaders, who must balance tight budgets and diverse requirements, determining which system will deliver the most value can feel like navigating a maze.

This complexity is further compounded by inconsistent training and support from providers. Even after a system is procured, many schools find that the guidance offered during implementation is insufficient, leaving staff unsure how to use the tools effectively. Without comprehensive, ongoing training, school leaders may struggle to unlock the full potential of their investment.

The Complexity of Compliance

Managing multiple disconnected systems poses significant challenges for data security and compliance, particularly with GDPR requirements. For SBLs, this often means navigating a frustrating labyrinth of logins, dashboards and reporting formats.

Safeguarding requirements add another layer of complexity. Schools must ensure that sensitive student data is secure and accessible only to authorized personnel. With poor integration, there’s an increased risk of data breaches or unauthorized access, which can have severe consequences for both the school’s reputation and the safety of its students.

As you read through the points above, you may have recognised some of these challenges – or perhaps you’ve encountered other obstacles that are often overlooked but should be addressed?

We are excited to invite you to share your insights through our engagement survey, linked below. Your feedback will be essential in further exploring the depth and range of challenges you face in data management and decision-making.

Working Together

Ultimately, no one has a clearer understanding of the challenges schools face when it comes to connecting the dots of their data than those who are working with it every day. Your unique perspective is invaluable in helping us pinpoint the existing and emerging challenges and identify effective solutions.

Through partnership with Education Executive on this initiative, SIMS is dedicated to supporting school business leaders and giving back to the education community and aim to gain an even deeper understanding of how they can support the sector with solution led insight and ideas.

Win £150 in Amazon Vouchers! We value your insights, and as a token of appreciation for completing our survey, you’ll be entered into a draw for a chance to win £150 in Amazon vouchers.

Your input is vital to ensure the final report accurately represents the experiences and needs of school business leaders.

You can be a part of ‘Insight Unlocked: How Data Literacy Can Transform Schools’ by taking part in the survey here: White Paper Research in partnership with SIMS – SBL Survey