What does this mean? The shift indicates that schools and academies are no longer tied to a single solution. They are seeking more agile, responsive systems that fit their specific needs, rather than relying on a one-size-fits-all approach.

MIS support teams are recognising this shift. Historically, many of these teams worked closely with just one MIS supplier, but now they are adopting a more agnostic approach. Instead of pushing a particular product, they are focusing on providing impartial advice, helping schools choose the system that is the best fit for them.

Why is Scomis Leading the Charge?

Scomis has long positioned itself as a supporter of schools’ processes, irrespective of which products they use.  They’ve hosted discovery sessions for the largest three MIS suppliers, ensuring that schools have the information they need to make informed decisions.  Scomis is sending a clear message: schools should choose the right system for their individual needs, not simply stick with what they’ve always used.

This is a pattern we’re seeing across the country. Other MIS support teams may follow Scomis’ lead, shifting their focus from legacy systems like SIMS to newer, more innovative solutions.

Fragmentation in the MIS Market: What Does It Mean for Schools?

The fragmentation of the MIS market presents both challenges and opportunities for schools. On the one hand, schools now have more choice than ever before, with a growing number of providers offering specialised, tailored solutions. On the other hand, this growing number of options can make the decision-making process more complex.

Historically, many schools stuck with SIMS because it was the default system supported by their Local Authority. Now, with providers like Scomis moving away from SIMS, schools need to carefully evaluate their options. So, what should schools be considering?

Things to Consider When Choosing a New MIS

1. Your School’s Specific Needs Every school has different priorities. Are you looking for a system that offers deep data analytics? Do you need strong integration with other edtech platforms? Or are you focused on ease of use for your administrative staff? Start by identifying the specific needs of your school and prioritise those when evaluating different systems.
2. Cost and Budget Constraints Budget pressures are a constant reality for schools. When choosing an MIS, it’s important to weigh up the long-term costs, not just the initial price tag. Consider the total cost of ownership, including implementation, training, and ongoing support. A cheaper system may have hidden costs down the line if it’s difficult to use or doesn’t fully integrate with your existing systems.
3. Data Security and Compliance Schools handle large amounts of sensitive data, so ensuring that your MIS provider adheres to the highest standards of data security and GDPR compliance is critical. Check that the systems you’re considering have strong security measures in place and that they are regularly audited for compliance.
4. Support and Training One of the biggest challenges when switching MIS providers is ensuring that staff are properly trained. The quality of the support and training offered by the MIS provider can make or break the transition process. Ask potential providers about the level of support they offer, including on-site training, online resources, and ongoing support options.
5. Scalability and Flexibility The needs of your school may change over time. Ensure that the system you choose is scalable and flexible enough to adapt to future changes. This could include the ability to integrate with new edtech platforms, manage larger student cohorts, or accommodate future curriculum changes.
6. Environmental Impact and Sustainability With schools increasingly focused on meeting net-zero carbon targets, the environmental impact of your MIS should also be considered. Cloud-based systems, for example, can reduce the need for hardware and server rooms, cutting down on electricity use and cooling requirements. This can help schools reduce their carbon footprint while also saving money on energy costs.

The Role of MIS Support Teams in the Buying Cycle

MIS support teams play a crucial role in the buying cycle for schools as they can often be are deeply involved in the procurement process, often acting as trusted advisors who guide schools through the complex decision-making process.

These teams help schools understand their needs, evaluate the options available, and ensure that the chosen system is implemented smoothly. As the market becomes more fragmented, the role of support teams becomes even more critical. Schools need impartial advice from teams that understand the market and are not tied to a particular product.

Recommendations for Schools Working with Support Teams

1. Engage Early Don’t wait until you’re ready to make a switch to engage with your support team. Start the conversation early to ensure they understand your needs and can help guide you through the decision-making process.
2. Ask for Discovery Sessions Many support teams offer discovery sessions where you can see demonstrations of different systems and ask questions. These sessions are invaluable for understanding how different systems work in practice and whether they meet your needs.
3. Ensure Independence Make sure your support team is providing impartial advice and is not pushing a particular product. The best support teams, like Scomis, focus on the process rather than the product, ensuring that you get the best solution for your school.

Conclusion

The decision by Scomis to stop supporting SIMS is a significant shift in the school MIS market. As the market becomes more fragmented, schools have more choice but also face more complexity in making the right decision. By understanding your specific needs, working closely with your support team, and focusing on long-term value rather than short-term cost, you can ensure that you choose the right system for your school.

The future of MIS in schools is exciting, with new systems offering greater flexibility, scalability, and integration with other edtech platforms. Whether you’re considering a switch or sticking with your current provider, it’s important to stay informed and make decisions based on what’s best for your school’s future.