What does being a Cloud-based system mean?

If your school or MAT is moving to Arbor, you might be wondering how an MIS based 'in the Cloud' differs from your old system. Take a look below for the main differences and advantages of being cloud-based, and what this means for your data and access.

What is a cloud-based MIS?

An MIS (Management Information System) is a system that helps schools collect, store, manage and use all the information they need. Being cloud-based means that the MIS is not stored on a physical server in your school and is accessible anywhere with an internet connection. 

Arbor is a smart, cloud-based MIS for primary schools, secondary schools, special schools & MATs. Our MIS helps to transform the way schools & MATs work by putting essential data at the fingertips of senior leaders, teachers & office staff, and by automating and simplifying administrative tasks to reduce staff workload.

What are the benefits of moving to the cloud?

Go paperless

A cloud-based MIS lets you record and send out information online. You never have to worry about printing or losing a sheet of paper again, because data is backed up and cannot be lost. The cloud is also a lot more secure than using a server-based system or arch lever files, as you can control the permissions of each user to manage what data they have access to.

Access Arbor from anywhere 

When you use a server-based system, staff can only access your school MIS from specific places (e.g. the computer in their classroom). With a cloud-based MIS, staff aren't tied to their desk and can work on the move around the school, or enter marks from home. No need to come into the school during half terms! 

Reduce the number of systems

Cloud-based MISs like Arbor bring all your data into one place rather than siloed systems that don't talk to each other. With Arbor, you can look at patterns between different areas, add demographic data into assessment results, or follow-up with parents about absence. No need to manually download and compare different spreadsheets or juggle multiple logins. You can also integrate Arbor with lots of other systems that you are used to using to get even more out of your data! 

How secure is a cloud-based system?

Much more secure than your school server! The international benchmark for data security is the ISO 27001 standard, and Arbor maintains its ISO 27001:2013 certification. We've also been accredited by the DfE to hold sensitive information from ASP, are penetration tested each year and are GDPR compliant. Below are just some of the ways Arbor helps you relax knowing your school is compliant: 

• Permission-based access - Only view the data that’s relevant to your role with our Business roles and role-based permissions.
• Secure logins for every user - Choose from a range of additional security features, including password rules, enforced regular password changes, and two-factor authentication. Arbor also automatically logs out after a period of inactivity.
• Retrieve data to comply with Subject Access Requests - Download a complete record of all data stored in Arbor about a student or staff member directly from their profile page. 
• Data retention pages to help you delete data - Arbor will automatically flag records that have passed your data retention period, meaning you can find and remove all students and staff who left your school.