What Is A Cloud-Based MIS For Schools?

Author: Antoinette Morris

Posted: 19 Jan 2023

Estimated time to read: 5 mins

Management information systems (MIS) play a critical role in helping school staff, administrators and senior leaders keep up with the demands of their jobs. They improve organisation, assist with data management, enhance communication, and more.

As technology gets more sophisticated, traditional MIS solutions may no longer be sufficient to meet educators’ ever-changing needs. If you’re no longer satisfied with your current MIS, switching to a cloud-based option could be a better fit.

Never heard of a cloud-based MIS? Not sure how it works or why it’s a good solution for your school? Keep reading to find out more about the world of cloud-based MIS systems. 

What is an MIS system for schools?

An MIS is a kind of centralised data system that assists with gathering, organising, processing and storing school data. If that sounds a bit abstract and confusing, then don’t worry. It might be helpful to think of an MIS like a kind of digital warehouse full of important documents, with its very own team of workers who sort the documents to make them easier to access and understand. 

Many MIS also have some fairly basic classroom management features, assisting with things like timetabling and seating. 

What is a cloud-based MIS?

In the case of a cloud-based MIS, this ‘digital warehouse’ exists in the cloud to give school administrators access from anywhere, making school office tasks significantly more efficient. 

This is a modern alternative to the standard MIS, which relies on a physical server stored at the school that can then only be accessed locally. 

Easier access aside, what other noteworthy features do cloud-based MIS usually offer?  

• Apps to assist with classroom management, although how useful these are depends on the MIS
• Student profile management, including access to information on parents and carers
• Staff information, including contracts, staff directory, and other HR information
• Tools to organise school details, including information on subjects, departments, teaching groups, and the overall academic structure
• The ability to set up security permissions

Cloud-based solutions are also more cost-effective than those that rely on on-site servers as they’re less costly to set up and maintain. They’re also easier to update as software capabilities grow and change, very useful in today’s ever changing EdTech landscape. 

If you’re still confused about how a cloud-based MIS works, or the benefits of switching to one, consider the answers to these frequently asked questions:

 

What is the most critical role of an MIS?

A management information system serves as a valuable data collection, storage, and management tool for schools.

With an MIS, administrators can gather data on student attendance, performance, and behaviour. They can also collect information related to teacher performance, communication with parents or carers, and much more.

In addition to assisting with data collection and secure storage, senior leaders can also rely on an MIS to generate detailed reports and monitor trends over time.

This information allows them to intervene sooner when they notice something is off. As a result, they can prevent problems from escalating and affecting pupil, teacher, or whole school wellbeing. 

 

How is cloud computing used in education?

Cloud computing benefits schools of all types and sizes. It helps them meet the latest data protection obligations and ensure student and employee information is kept safe at all times. 

Many cloud-based solutions (including cloud-based management information systems) offer high-level security features to reduce the risk of data breaches and ensure only those with the appropriate permissions can access specific files.

As a bonus, the safety features that accompany cloud-based solutions are often easy to navigate and set up. As a result, headteachers and other staff members are more likely to utilise them and maximise school security.

 

What does an MIS mean for teachers?

The adoption of management information systems in schools is significant for teachers and teaching assistants because they can use it to streamline various tasks, including:

• Monitoring attendance
• Monitoring pupil progress
• Conducting and scoring pupil assessments
• Collecting pupil financial information
• Scheduling classes
• Communicating with parents and guardians

All of this can be done from anywhere with a cloud-based system, useful for distance learning or checking things on the go.

Is an MIS an example of cloud computing?

An MIS is an example of cloud computing because many modern MIS solutions run in the cloud. 

These systems don’t depend on an on-premise server (but they run just as well as, if not better than, traditional MIS solutions).

A cloud-based MIS allows for a lighter, more agile approach. It also offers other benefits like increased security and reduced energy consumption. 

 

Satchel One is expanding into an MIS

Satchel One is expanding into an MIS, combining a full suite of cloud-based MIS features with the power of our learning platform. Everything you need to run and manage your school, all from one login.

Want to know more? Sign up for updates here, or join our upcoming webinar:

Inside Satchel One MIS With the Satchel Product team 

09/05/23 at 12pm GMT