We’ve always done it that way!
We’ve always done it that way! These are the most expensive words to hear in any organisation, especially a school. As we come to the end of what is turning out to be a very expensive year with the cost of living skyrocketing, it’s certainly a time to review everything you do and ask some serious questions. For many years in my role as an IT Manager in schools, I have experienced so much opposition to doing things in a different way to match the world that already changed over 10 years ago.
Let’s look at the reasons why alternative solutions from Google, Apple and many other web based companies aren’t being embraced for all use cases around the world.
Generation Z people and many other generations in 2022 do not have any computers in their home, most online content and apps are accessed with Smartphones, Tablets and smart home devices such as Alexa & Google home etc. Many businesses in everyday situations use mobile devices such as home delivery & service technicians etc. By the time adults have to use a Windows based business system, they already understand the fundamental skills involved and in most cases will receive some form of formal training. Why then do we need to force pupils from Early years into having to sit at a Windows desktop or laptop in preparation for a future that will either have completely transformed again or they can easily adapt to when they get there. Schools need simple, manageable solutions that work and don’t need a large amount of support to maintain.
Here’s the big question:
Why is it that Microsoft Windows is regarded as the main goto solution for Education?
Answer: Generation X people
In nearly every scenario, each time a conversation is to be had about IT Systems in schools, many of the decision makers are from Generation X and have not known or wanted to change to anything else other than Windows. They are recommending what is comfortable for them and not factoring in the sensible alternative options available to them. Many words that you will hear from IT Managers and technicians are “I don’t trust Google” or “I hate Apple devices” - These professionals are supposed to be supporting everyone and should be open minded to all new technologies.
Let’s now look at this from the highest level. Trust boards and even the DfE are advised by the same Generation of advisors who are recommending what’s always been done. Many senior decision makers who should be visionary are not doing so. They are in a privileged position to change the way things are done to transform the way that teaching is delivered to provide a much better future for pupils and staff in schools.
Please don’t read this article and come to the conclusion that I favour all the other solutions over Microsoft. The collection of systems and products I work with on a daily basis is wide and varied. I have been fortunate enough to be empowered and have an open discussion with the decision makers to allow them to make an informed decision as to what is right for their school pupils and staff. We all need to remember that the solutions to all our problems need to be the right ones. Do not try to shoehorn the wrong solution into place because it’s what you’ve always done.
Nigel Milligan
IT Director.
