Indiana Association for School Principals Improves Service Offerings Through Technology

Although a relatively small organization in terms of staff size, the Indiana Association for School Principals serves thousands of administrators and students across the state and was in need of a reliable technology infrastructure to store important member data and deliver its numerous programs. The student competitions in particular put a strain on the organization’s technology system, as thousands of students attempted to access score information contained on the network. IASP was hindered by a slow, outdated server and a lack of technology expertise among its staff. Frequent technical problems often resulted in excessive down time, and staff members felt there were missed opportunities to leverage technology to enhance existing programs and facilitate more efficient delivery of services to members.

NPower installed a new server, as well as new laptops with docking stations for all IASP staff members, and continues to provide ongoing technical support to maintain the new system and ensure equipment is running at optimal capacity.   IASP leverages NPower’s consultants frequently for guidance in the purchase of new equipment, and was able to obtain free Microsoft Office software in 2005 through NPower’s exclusive Microsoft Software Donation Program, with a value of more than $55,000.  Several staff members have also taken reduced-cost DreamWeaver courses through NPower’s training partner, ETI Performance Improvement. 

In addition to the wide range of membership benefits utilized by the organization, IASP has made a strong effort to work collaboratively with NPower’s network consultants to increase internal technology proficiency.  One staff member has developed a reference guide to document the solutions to common technology problems and allow for a smoother trouble shooting process.

As a result of the upgraded equipment and NPower’s continued technical support, IASP has developed a stable and secure technology infrastructure for conducting daily operations. This has helped to greatly improve the number of system outages and down time, ultimately leading to increased staff productivity and satisfaction. Furthermore, the organization has been able to build upon this stable platform and started using technology in more innovative ways to provide services to its members. The DreamWeaver courses in particular helped the staff to implement several interactive web features, including an e-bulletin, online calendar and online forms. NPower’s assistance with the installation of video conferencing equipment has provided a new venue for members’ professional development training as well.

From a financial perspective, IASP received more than $6,000 in value through its membership with NPower Indiana in 2008. Much of this was due to the reduced rate consulting services, but IASP also saved nearly $700 on professional technology training courses through the relationship with NPower. Along with these considerable cost benefits, the organization as a whole has become more proficient in its use of technology for everyday business functions and mission related activities. Office Assistant Beth Moore says, "NPower’s consultants have helped us to become more self-sufficient in our use of technology, and have worked with us collaboratively to find new ways to leverage technology for the benefit of our members."