3. Invest in ongoing training.
Initial onboarding is essential, but not enough. Staff turnover, new modules, and evolving policies mean training must be continuous. iSAMS’ University is an excellent dedicated e-learning platform. Purchase it and use it!
Appointing a mentor and MIS coach to help steer your way, particularly through the early months of implementation can also make a huge difference!
Senior leaders, teachers and admin staff might also be required to access their courses online to develop their iSAMS skills specific to their role, as part of their professional development and as a PD target.
4. Map workflows before configuring modules.
Now we are getting a bit technical! The system should reflect the school’s processes, not the other way around. Clear workflow mapping prevents confusion and duplication. These need to be thought out and articulated properly, and your modules configured accordingly.
5. Audit usage and data quality annually.
Your iSAMS teams should keep on top of this all the time! Which modules are being used? Which aren’t? Why? A simple, planned review can reveal quick wins and long‑term improvements.
6. Integrate systems properly.
iSAMS is most powerful when connected to HR, safeguarding, finance, and communication platforms. For example, iSAMS does have its own Finance module for fee billing but it can be integrated with various third-party accounting and payment platforms if preferred. Another example of integration is where schools want to use a platform like CPOMs in preference to iSAMs Wellbeing module for more complex child protection and welfare tracking. The good news is that the two systems have been designed to be compatible which makes for a really powerful tool.
7. Build internal capacity.
Train champions in each department, create simple guides and encourage staff to use the system fully. Capacity building is far more sustainable than relying on one expert.
8. Get some extra help!
Schools often tell me they “don’t know what they don’t know” when it comes to iSAMS. That’s entirely understandable. MIS systems are complex, and school life is busy. This is where external expertise can be transformative. A short review, a workflow audit, or targeted training can dramatically improve efficiency, data quality, and staff confidence.
USING WHAT YOU HAVE!
iSAMS is a powerful system when schools invest in the people, processes, and training required to use it well. With the right support, schools can transform their MIS from a source of frustration into a genuine driver of improvement, better data, smoother operations, more informed decision‑making.
In other words, a system that truly supports teaching and learning!