Overcomplicated, poorly developed tech is causing schools to consider if the learning curve is worth their time.
“Tech debt” is a term used to describe the long-term cost of using shortcuts or temporary solutions in software development. It refers to the accumulated cost of the necessary maintenance and alterations that are required to keep a product functional and up-to-date with the changing needs of the user. Unfortunately, school security technology is not immune to the problems caused by tech debt. In fact, it is all too common in this field. In this blog post, we will discuss the ways in which tech debt can occur in school security tech and how schools can avoid it.
One of the most common ways that tech debt occurs in school security technology is through the requirement for multiple login credentials. Many safety software suites require different login credentials for each component of their suite. This can lead to disorganization and confusion among users, resulting in mistakes and decreased efficiency. To avoid this problem, schools should consider using a singular system that requires only one login. This will simplify the process and ensure that all users are on the same page.
Another way in which tech debt can occur in school security technology is through the use of software that requires constant updates. Frequent updates can disrupt workflow, lead to data loss, and require faculty to undergo additional training. This can divert resources away from other tasks, decreasing overall productivity and the effectiveness of the software. To avoid this problem, schools should consider using a comprehensive system that accounts for all aspects of school safety, both long-term and daily operational. This will ensure that updates are less frequent and less disruptive.
Finally, tech debt can occur when schools do not utilize all the features of their security technology because they are too complicated or misunderstood. If a function of the software is too complicated or takes too much time to understand, many schools just avoid that function altogether. This can lead to decreased effectiveness and increased risk. To avoid this problem, schools should consider using a system that is made with school faculty input. This will ensure that the software is designed with the daily operational needs of the school in mind and that all tools are utilized in unison.
With a unified system, users can avoid the complications and potential conflicts that arise from managing multiple software systems, each with its own updates, licenses, maintenance requirements, and login credentials. Many school safety systems require their solutions to operate over three or more platforms, making it harder to not only log in, but to use the product seamlessly aswell. While this may sound like a superficial gripe, anyone that has worked in school administration knows that when a system is used many times daily, having rifts in the operation of the system will result in mistakes, which is unacceptable in the event of an emergency.
You won't have to worry about multiple logins and multiple systems if you source a software system that accounts for all aspects of school safety; both long-term and daily operational. Having to piece together a system from three different school safety tech providers is both costly and difficult. Having all your tools in one system gives the user the ability to communicate information between emergency planning, threat assessments and response without copying and entering information back and forth.
No one knows the daily operational needs of a school better than the faculty. Seek out technology that was curated by the expertise of school leadership, security professionals, or district administration.
In conclusion, tech debt is a common problem in school security technology. However, it can be avoided by using a singular system that requires only one login, a comprehensive system that accounts for all aspects of school safety, and a system that is made with school faculty input. By following these guidelines, schools can ensure that their security technology is effective, efficient, and sustainable in the long run.
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