There are many factors to consider when choosing a gradebook for your school or district. The transition to digital learning has only made the decision more difficult, with a wide range of new products on the market.
One of the most important factors to consider is security. With sensitive student data at stake, you need to be sure that your gradebook is secure and compliant with all relevant regulations.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through the key considerations for choosing a secure cloud-based gradebook. We will also go over the best sites to find cloud-based gradebooks.
Choosing a Gradebook: Security Considerations
When choosing a gradebook, security should be your top priority. Here are some of the key considerations:
1. Data encryption
Make sure that your gradebook uses data encryption to protect sensitive student information.
2. User authentication
Choose a gradebook that requires user authentication, so that only authorized users can access the system.
3. Access controls
Make sure that the gradebook has robust access controls, so that only authorized users can view or edit student data.
4. Firewall protection
The gradebook should be protected by a firewall to prevent unauthorized access.
5. Data backup and recovery
The gradebook should have a reliable data backup and recovery system in place in case of a disaster.
6. Compliance with regulations
Make sure that the gradebook is compliant with all relevant regulations, such as FERPA and the GDPR.
The Best Sites to Find Cloud-Based Gradebooks
Now that you know what to look for in a secure cloud-based gradebook, here are some of the best directory sites for finding such gradebooks:
1. Capterra
Capterra is a directory of software products, including cloud-based gradebooks. It is one of the top sites for finding great software platforms. You can filter the results by features, pricing, and ratings to find the right product for your school or district.
2. EdTechReview
EdTechReview is a comprehensive resource for finding edtech products, including cloud-based gradebooks. The site provides reviews, ratings, and comparisons of different products.
3. Google search
You can also find cloud-based gradebooks by doing a Google search. Simply type in “cloud-based gradebook” and you will get a list of results from various directory sites. But do keep in mind that just because a site has great SEO does not mean it is always the best option available! We suggest going through at least the first two pages to find a suitable gradebook for you.
4. G2
G2 was founded in 2012 as a comprehensive directory of cloud-based products. It is often compared to Capterra and gets just as much hype. G2 has a great number of high-quality software products listed on their site, and it is super easy to navigate.
5. GetApp
Another Gartner site, GetApp is similar to Capterra and has a handful of great software products listed on their site, with accompanying reviews. Out of the three Gartner sites (Capterra, Software Advice, and GetApp), GetApp gets the least amount of traffic. Still, it’s a great platform for finding the perfect cloud-based gradebook.
6. Software Advice
Lastly, Software Advice includes 300+ categories for different software products. Some categories include school software, medical software, CRM, accounting software etc. Many people find this site helpful for finding reliable software platforms to suit their needs.
Choosing a secure cloud-based gradebook is a critical decision for any school or district. Make sure to consider the security features of the gradebook before making your purchase. You can start your journey of finding the perfect cloud-based gradebook by utilizing the sites listed above.
Zara Raza is the Head of Marketing at SchoolCues, the premier all-in-one school management system for small schools.
