Buying new school software shouldn’t have to be an overwhelmingly complex or time consuming task. At Arbor, we want schools and trusts to be able to make informed, timely, and transparent decisions – especially when it comes to your MIS.
When procuring a system like your MIS, going through an approved framework is the simplest and most secure route. It saves you spending hours drafting requirements, researching companies and going through a tender process – instead giving you all the information you need to choose the most competitive, reputable and safest provider, all through one platform.
That’s why we’re excited to be listed for the fifth time on the G-Cloud framework, as an approved Crown Commercial Services (CCS) supplier.
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What is the G-Cloud framework?
The G-Cloud framework is an agreement between the UK government and suppliers of a wide range of cloud-based services, like Arbor. The framework helps public sector organisations buy cloud services in a straightforward and transparent way, and is more efficient than posting and managing multiple, individual contracts.
The framework also gives you peace of mind that you’re complying with procurement law. It’s an easy-to-use, self-service interface hosted by Crown Commercial Services. Schools and trusts can award directly based on supplier’s features, or run a simple clarification process (with no competitions).
Plus, for the latest version of the framework (G-Cloud 14), all suppliers had to pass a Financial Viability Risk Assessment from CCS. This is a series of thorough tests to prove financial stability and make sure we can meet the standards set by the government.
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How does G-Cloud work?
You can find the DfE’s guidance on using the G-Cloud framework here. And here is our summary of the process for an MIS purchase:
1. An important first step is to work out exactly what your trust needs from your system or service before you start. For example, it might be important to you to have built-in communications and meals management, or you might want to customise the system to your bespoke assessment framework. You will likely want a system that’s compatible with multiple internet browsers and devices, and gives you secure logins.
2. Go to “Cloud software”
3. Search for keywords that are relevant to what you’re looking for, such as ‘Primary MIS’, ‘Secondary MIS’, or ‘MAT MIS’, to find the list of relevant suppliers. Remember to download this list for your audit trail once you’ve found what you’re looking for.
If there are too many results after putting in your keywords through, you can click a filter, e.g. “2-factor authentication” to see the suppliers that provide that feature.
4. Read each supplier’s product and pricing information
5. Send any clarification questions to the suppliers or host a demo day to confirm which supplier best meets your needs
6. Award your contract using the G-Cloud contract template
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Why Arbor?
Arbor is home to the UK’s most-popular MIS and school management software, helping over 7,000 schools and MATs transform the way they work for the better.
Arbor MAT MIS is your MAT’s mission control. More than just a dashboard, it gives you the tools and insight you need to improve the way you run your trust, grow sustainably, and work as one organisation rather than many schools.
Over 100 trusts have joined Arbor through G-Cloud so far! If you want to see Arbor in action you can book a free demo or join a webinar here.
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