Follett Aspen - Detailed Review
Education Tools
Follett Aspen - Product Overview
Follett Aspen Overview
Follett Aspen is a comprehensive Student Information System (SIS) that serves as a central hub for managing all aspects of school data. Here’s a brief overview of its primary function, target audience, and key features:
Primary Function
Follett Aspen is designed to integrate all school information management needs into a single, scalable platform. It helps schools collect, organize, and report various types of student data, including class schedules, school events, athletic eligibility, student performance, and individual health records.
Target Audience
The primary target audience for Follett Aspen includes educational institutions, such as schools and school districts. This system is particularly useful for administrators, teachers, parents, and students who need to manage and access student information efficiently.
Key Features
Intelligent Integration
Aspen unites various school management needs within one platform, allowing for seamless integration with other educational tools and systems, including Learning Management Systems (LMS) like Canvas and Google Classroom.
Flexible Platform
The system is highly adaptable, enabling users to personalize screens, reports, and interfaces to meet specific needs. This flexibility helps avoid the need for additional software purchases.
Data-Driven Insights
Aspen provides a complete, data-driven picture of each student, including performance metrics, attendance, and health records. It also offers tools for customized state reporting and personalized reports for special education, athletics, and health.
Teacher Tools
Features include an integrated lesson planner, a feature-rich gradebook, and improved communication between parents, students, and teachers. Teachers can focus more on teaching with simplified scheduling and attendance tools.
Parent and Student Portal
Parents and students have access to grades, homework, calendars, and other relevant information through a user-friendly portal, enhancing visibility and communication.
Advanced Security
Aspen employs advanced security measures such as encryption, secure access controls, and regular audits to protect student data.
Support and Training
The Aspen Implementation Team provides comprehensive support, including initial setup, ongoing assistance, and training workshops to ensure a smooth transition and optimal use of the system.
Conclusion
Overall, Follett Aspen is a versatile and integrated solution that simplifies administrative tasks and provides a comprehensive view of student data, making it an invaluable tool for educational institutions.
Follett Aspen - User Interface and Experience
User Interface of Follett Aspen
The user interface of Follett Aspen, a comprehensive student information system (SIS), is a subject of mixed reviews when it comes to ease of use and overall user experience.
Ease of Use
While Aspen is praised for its extensive functionality and the ability to manage a broad range of student information, many users find the interface cumbersome and outdated. Several reviewers have noted that the system can be very complex and difficult to use, particularly for those who are not highly knowledgeable about its operations.
For example, simple tasks such as marking attendance or managing gradebooks can be cumbersome. Users have reported issues like having to make multiple submissions to update a student’s attendance status, and the gradebook system does not allow for easy upload of grades from spreadsheets or CSV files.
User Interface
The interface itself is often described as dated and in need of updating for better ease of use. Some users have mentioned that basic functionalities, such as finding a student’s schedule or printing out student information, can be glitchy and require multiple steps, which can be frustrating.
Customization and Flexibility
Despite the challenges with ease of use, Aspen is highly flexible and customizable. It allows districts to configure the system to meet their specific needs, and it supports integration with various third-party applications and learning management systems like Canvas and Google Classroom.
Support and Training
Follett Aspen offers extensive support and training to help users overcome the learning curve. The implementation process includes dedicated team members who work with schools to ensure a smooth transition, and there are numerous resources available, such as tutorials, courses, and webinars, to help users get the most out of the system.
Overall User Experience
The overall user experience varies widely depending on the user’s level of technical expertise and familiarity with the system. While some users appreciate the comprehensive features and the ability to manage large amounts of data, others find the system too complicated and time-consuming to use effectively.
In summary, while Follett Aspen is a powerful tool with a wide range of functionalities, its user interface and ease of use are areas that need improvement to enhance the overall user experience. However, the company’s commitment to customer support and training helps mitigate some of these challenges.
Follett Aspen - Key Features and Functionality
Follett Aspen SIS Overview
Follett Aspen SIS is a comprehensive cloud-based platform that manages and hosts a wide range of student data and administrative tasks. Here are the main features and how they function, along with their benefits:
Data Access and Management
Aspen SIS allows users to store and manage various types of student data, including class schedules, school events, athletic eligibility, student performance, and individual health records. This centralized data management helps in maintaining accurate and up-to-date information, which is crucial for administrative and educational decisions.
Customized State Reporting
The system provides tools for customized state reporting, enabling schools to comply with state-specific requirements easily. This feature ensures that all necessary reports are generated accurately and efficiently, saving time and reducing errors.
Master Scheduling
Aspen SIS includes master scheduling capabilities, which help in creating and managing class schedules. This feature simplifies the scheduling process, ensuring that students are enrolled in the correct classes and that teachers have the necessary resources.
Health Database
The health database feature allows schools to store and manage student health records securely. This is essential for tracking medical conditions, allergies, and other health-related information, ensuring the well-being of students.
Grade Book and Instructional Management
The grade book is a key feature that provides teachers with a data-driven view of student performance. It integrates with the instructional management system, enabling teachers to plan lessons, track student progress, and communicate effectively with parents and students.
Digital Learning Tools
Aspen SIS includes digital learning tools that support online learning and integration with learning management systems (LMS) like Canvas and Google Classroom. This ensures a seamless learning experience and facilitates the use of various educational resources.
Parent and Student Portal
The parent and student portal offers visibility into grades, homework, calendars, and other important information. This enhances communication between parents, students, and teachers, and keeps families involved in the educational process.
Financial Management and Bookstore Administration
The system supports financial management, including e-payments, and bookstore administration. These features streamline financial transactions and inventory management, making administrative tasks more efficient.
Library Management
Aspen SIS integrates with Follett’s Destiny library manager, which helps in managing library resources, tracking books, and providing access to digital content. This integration ensures that library operations are well-organized and accessible.
Online Calendar and Facility Supervision
The online calendar feature allows schools to manage events, schedules, and facility usage effectively. This helps in coordinating activities and ensuring that facilities are used efficiently.
AI Integration
While the primary features of Aspen SIS do not explicitly highlight AI-driven components, Follett’s broader suite includes AI tools like Destiny AI, which is not directly part of Aspen SIS but indicates Follett’s approach to AI. Destiny AI, for example, provides instant reports and real-time data refinement, but this is more relevant to library management rather than the core functions of Aspen SIS.
Security and Integration
Aspen SIS employs advanced security measures such as encryption, secure access controls, and regular audits to protect data. The system is highly integrative, supporting real-time integrations with various third-party tools and learning management systems through standards like IMS Global One roster specification and custom RESTful APIs.
Onboarding and Support
The implementation process is supported by a dedicated team that includes configuration, relationship, and conversion specialists. This ensures a smooth transition and ongoing support to help schools get the most out of the system.
Conclusion
In summary, Follett Aspen SIS is a versatile platform that streamlines administrative tasks, enhances student performance tracking, and provides comprehensive data management solutions, all while ensuring data security and integration with other educational tools.
Follett Aspen - Performance and Accuracy
Evaluating the Performance and Accuracy of Follett Aspen
Evaluating the performance and accuracy of Follett Aspen, a Student Information System (SIS), involves looking at various aspects of its functionality, user feedback, and areas where it could improve.
Performance
Follett Aspen is praised for its ability to streamline administrative tasks and provide comprehensive data-driven insights. It integrates well with other software educators use, which helps in making every resource count.
Scalability
Aspen is capable of supporting large-scale operations, as evidenced by its use in over 50 school districts and hundreds of thousands of students. It offers a broad and deep range of functionality that covers almost every need at the school and district level.
Customization and Flexibility
The system allows for a high degree of customization and personalization, which is beneficial for meeting the specific needs of different schools and districts.
Accuracy
Data Accuracy
Follett Aspen improves data accuracy by simplifying complex administrative processes. This helps in maintaining accurate student records and performance tracking.
Real-time Tracking
The system enables educators to track and analyze student data in real-time, which is crucial for identifying at-risk students and planning interventions to improve outcomes.
Limitations and Areas for Improvement
Despite its strengths, Follett Aspen has several areas where it falls short:
User Experience
Many users have reported that the system can be overly complicated and difficult to use. Some find the interface clunky, with too many steps required to perform basic tasks like entering student grades or finding a student’s schedule.
Specific Functionalities
There are missing functions that are considered basic, such as the integration of attendance with bus manifests and the ability to create bus exemption lists. These omissions can lead to manual errors and increased risk, particularly in ensuring student safety.
Gradebook and Assignment Management
Users have complained about the limitations in the gradebook and assignment management features. For example, the inability to upload grades from a spreadsheet or CSV file, and the restrictive character limit for assignment names, are seen as significant drawbacks.
Customer Support and Training
While some users praise the customer support, others have reported negative experiences, highlighting issues with training resources and the overall support provided during the transition to the new system.
Conclusion
Follett Aspen is a powerful tool for managing student information and tracking performance, but it has its limitations. While it excels in scalability, customization, and data accuracy, it needs improvements in user experience, specific functionalities, and possibly in the training and support provided to its users. Addressing these areas could significantly enhance the overall performance and user satisfaction of the system.
Follett Aspen - Pricing and Plans
Pricing Structure of Follett Aspen SIS
When it comes to the pricing structure of Follett Aspen SIS, the information available is somewhat limited, but here are the key points you need to know:
Pricing Model
Follett Aspen SIS operates on a yearly pricing model, but it does not offer fixed or publicly listed plans. Instead, the pricing is quotation-based, meaning you need to contact the vendor directly to get a customized quote for your specific needs.
Plans and Tiers
There are no predefined tiers or plans listed for Follett Aspen SIS. The pricing is customized based on the requirements of the educational institution, which can include various features and integrations.
Features Available
Despite the lack of specific plans, Follett Aspen SIS offers a wide range of features that can be included in a customized package. These features include:
- Academics and Curriculum Management
- Attendance and Behavior Management
- Admission and Enrollment Management
- Financial and Fee Management
- Library and Bookstore Management
- Facility and Hostel Management
- HR & Payroll
- Mobile Support
- Customized Report Cards
- Event and Examination Management
- Integration with other learning management systems like Canvas and Google Classroom.
Free Options
There are no free plans or trials mentioned for Follett Aspen SIS. However, you can request a free demo to see how the system works and how it can benefit your institution.
Summary
In summary, while Follett Aspen SIS does not have publicly listed pricing tiers, it offers a comprehensive set of features that can be customized to fit the specific needs of an educational institution, with pricing determined on a quotation basis.
Follett Aspen - Integration and Compatibility
Follett Aspen Student Information System (SIS)
Aspen SIS is renowned for its seamless integration with various educational tools and platforms, making it a versatile and user-friendly solution for schools and districts.
Integration with Learning Management Systems
Aspen SIS fully supports the IMS Global One roster specification, which enables real-time integrations with popular learning management systems like Canvas and Google Classroom. This integration allows teachers to export grades from Google Classroom directly to Aspen SIS, streamlining the grading process and ensuring accuracy.
Third-Party Software Integration
Aspen is highly flexible and can integrate with a wide range of third-party software tools. Follett can build custom RESTful APIs directly within Aspen, allowing administrators to easily access and manage data imports, exports, and exchanges via API. This flexibility ensures that Aspen can work seamlessly with the specific tools and systems already in use by a district.
Multi-Platform Compatibility
Aspen SIS is accessible across various devices, including mobile devices, providing students, parents, and teachers with the convenience of accessing important information anywhere. The mobile access feature enhances the classroom connection by allowing students to view their learning materials, homework, and grades on the go.
Integration with Other Follett Solutions
Aspen SIS is part of the broader Destiny Educator Platform, which unifies various Follett solutions such as the Destiny Library Manager and Destiny Resource Manager. This integration allows for a cohesive and streamlined management of school resources, from library inventory to student information.
Customized Reporting and State Compliance
Aspen offers tools for customized state reporting, personalized reports for special education, athletics, and health, which can be integrated with other district systems. This ensures that all necessary data is collected, organized, and reported accurately and efficiently.
Training and Support
To ensure smooth integration and use, Follett provides weekly training and workshops for administrators and staff. The dedicated support team is available for initial setup and ongoing assistance, helping users to maximize the benefits of Aspen SIS.
Conclusion
In summary, Follett Aspen SIS is highly compatible with a variety of educational tools and platforms, offering a seamless and integrated solution that simplifies tasks for teachers, administrators, and students alike. Its flexibility in integration and accessibility across different devices make it a valuable asset for any educational institution.
Follett Aspen - Customer Support and Resources
Follett Software Support for Aspen Student Information System (SIS)
Follett Software, particularly through its Aspen Student Information System (SIS), offers a comprehensive array of customer support options and additional resources to ensure users get the most out of their educational technology.
Technical Support
For technical issues with Aspen SIS, users can reach out through several channels:
- Phone Support: Available from 7:00am to 8:00pm ET, you can call 1-800-323-3397.
- Online Support: Tickets can be submitted online via Pando.
This ensures that technical problems are addressed promptly and efficiently.
Support Center
The Follett Support Center is a valuable resource for troubleshooting and guidance on their products. Here, you can find answers to common questions, troubleshooting tips, and detailed product information to help resolve issues quickly.
Training and Professional Development
Follett provides various training options to help users maximize the benefits of Aspen SIS. These include:
- In-depth Professional Development: Comprehensive training sessions to ensure users are well-versed in the system.
- Quick Tutorials: For those needing a quick refresher or introduction to specific features.
- Webinars and On-site Sessions: Regular training courses, including webinars and on-site sessions, to empower users with the necessary skills.
Community and Resources
Users can connect with a network of educators through the Follett Community. This platform allows sharing of valuable insights, best practices, and access to resources that aid in the educational journey. The community includes administrators, technology experts, financial specialists, and librarians, making it a rich source of support and knowledge.
Integration and Compatibility
Aspen SIS integrates with other educational systems, such as Edsby, a digital learning and data platform. This integration synchronizes data on rosters, grades, attendance, schedules, and more, ensuring a seamless user experience for students, teachers, and parents.
Onboarding and Implementation
Follett ensures a smooth transition to their software with intuitive onboarding processes. Their team works closely with users to make sure implementation is clear and that everyone is onboarded simultaneously. This support continues with ongoing assistance whenever needed.
By providing these extensive support options and resources, Follett Software aims to ensure that users of Aspen SIS can effectively manage student information, track academic progress, and make informed decisions to positively impact student outcomes.
Follett Aspen - Pros and Cons
Pros of Follett Aspen SIS
Follett Aspen SIS offers several significant advantages that make it a viable option for educational institutions:
Scalability and Flexibility
Aspen is highly scalable, capable of supporting large school districts with hundreds of thousands of students. It provides a broad and deep range of functionality that can be customized to meet the specific needs of individual schools, teachers, parents, and administrators.
Comprehensive Features
The platform includes a wide array of features such as gradebook management, attendance tracking, student at-risk identification, and scheduling tools. These features help simplify administrative tasks and provide a complete, data-driven picture of each student.
Integration Capabilities
Aspen integrates well with other educational software, including learning management systems like Canvas and Google Classroom, and supports third-party software integrations through APIs. This flexibility allows districts to choose the tools that work best for them.
Personalized Support
The Aspen Implementation Team provides extensive support, including initial setup, training, and ongoing assistance. This ensures a smooth transition and helps users get the most out of the software.
Data Security
Aspen employs advanced security measures such as encryption, secure access controls, and regular audits to protect student data.
User Community and Resources
Users can connect with peers, access tutorials, courses, and resource materials, and stay updated with the latest features through webinars and guided learning experiences.
Cons of Follett Aspen SIS
Despite its advantages, Follett Aspen SIS also has several drawbacks that users have highlighted:
User-Friendly Issues
Many users find the software extremely hard to use, with numerous glitches and cumbersome navigation. Simple tasks often require multiple clicks and refreshes, which can be time-consuming and frustrating.
Glitches and Errors
Users have reported frequent errors, such as issues with attendance tracking not communicating with bus manifests, and problems with printing and aligning student information. These glitches can lead to significant administrative headaches.
Limited Functionality in Certain Areas
Some users have noted that certain basic functions are missing or poorly implemented, such as the inability to create a bus exemption list or to upload grades from a spreadsheet. These omissions can make everyday tasks more difficult.
Poor User Experience for Teachers and Students
Teachers and students often find the interface clunky and difficult to use. For example, students may have to go through multiple screens to view their assignments and grades, and teachers face challenges in entering student grades and comments efficiently.
Implementation Challenges
Some districts have reported a rushed implementation process with insufficient training time, leading to significant difficulties in adapting to the new software. This has resulted in increased frustration among staff and teachers.
Overall, while Follett Aspen SIS offers a range of powerful features and flexibility, it also presents significant usability challenges and functional limitations that can impact its effectiveness in daily use.
Follett Aspen - Comparison with Competitors
When comparing Follett Aspen
A comprehensive Student Information System (SIS), with other education tools in the same category, several key features and alternatives stand out.
Unique Features of Follett Aspen
- Integration Capabilities: Follett Aspen integrates seamlessly with other educational tools such as Google Classroom, allowing teachers to export grades directly to Aspen for report cards and transcripts. This integration simplifies the grading process and ensures accuracy.
- Comprehensive SIS Functions: Aspen offers a full range of SIS functions including reporting, data analysis for identifying at-risk students, standards-based grading, scheduling, enrollment, and attendance tracking.
- Deep Integration with Other Platforms: Aspen also integrates with platforms like Edsby, providing synchronization of roster, grades, attendance, and other critical information. This ensures a cohesive and streamlined educational environment.
Potential Alternatives
Remind
While Remind is more focused on communication and messaging within the educational community, it does not offer the same level of SIS functionality as Follett Aspen. However, Remind has a larger market share and more customers, particularly in the U.S., Canada, and the U.K.
Edsby
Edsby is a digital learning and data platform that, like Aspen, supports K-12 education. It provides a modern suite of social digital learning, assessment, and reporting services. Edsby’s integration with Aspen enhances its functionality, but it is more focused on learning and data management rather than being a standalone SIS.
AI-Driven Education Tools
While Follett Aspen is not primarily an AI-driven tool, there are other education tools that heavily incorporate AI:
Smart Sparrow
This adaptive e-learning platform uses AI to personalize learning and provide real-time feedback. It is more focused on interactive lessons and adaptive learning rather than SIS functions.
DreamBox
An adaptive math learning platform for K-8, DreamBox uses AI to personalize math lessons and provide real-time feedback. It is specialized in math education and does not replace the comprehensive functions of an SIS like Follett Aspen.
Coursera
A leading online learning platform that uses AI to personalize learning experiences and recommend courses. Coursera is more geared towards online course offerings rather than managing student information.
Conclusion
Follett Aspen stands out for its comprehensive SIS features and its ability to integrate with other educational platforms. While it may not be an AI-driven tool itself, its integrations and functionalities make it a strong choice for schools needing a robust SIS. For those looking for AI-driven learning platforms, tools like Smart Sparrow, DreamBox, and Coursera offer specialized solutions but do not replace the core functions of a Student Information System.
Follett Aspen - Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions about Follett Aspen
What is Follett Aspen SIS?
Follett Aspen SIS is a comprehensive student information system that simplifies administrative tasks, enhances communication, and supports student success. It provides a user-friendly interface and robust features to manage academic records and daily operations efficiently.What are the key features of Follett Aspen SIS?
Aspen SIS includes a wide range of features such as:- Student Information System
- Gradebook
- Attendance Tracking
- Scheduling
- Report Cards
- Transcripts
- Health Records
- Discipline Management
- Parent, Teacher, and Student Portals
- Customizable Dashboards
- Data Analytics
- Communication Tools
- Special Education Management
- Fee Management
- Library Management
- Transportation Management
- Mobile Access
- Integration Capabilities
How does Aspen SIS support data integration and reporting?
Aspen SIS integrates with various software that educators already use, making every resource count. It allows you to collect, organize, and report the data you need, and it adapts to meet the specific needs of your district. The system also provides advanced data analytics and reporting tools to help make informed decisions.What kind of support does Follett offer for Aspen SIS implementation and use?
Follett provides extensive support for Aspen SIS, including an implementation team with over 100 combined years of experience in installation, training, customization, and software support. They offer ongoing support, intuitive onboarding, and extensive training to ensure you get the most out of the system.Is Aspen SIS customizable to meet specific district needs?
Yes, Aspen SIS is highly customizable. Its adaptable architecture allows you to personalize screens, reports, and interfaces to meet your specific needs. Customizations are integrated seamlessly and survive all future upgrades, ensuring that the system remains tailored to your district’s requirements.What platforms does Aspen SIS support?
Aspen SIS supports a variety of platforms, including Android and iOS, making it accessible on mobile devices. It also integrates with other software and systems that your district may already be using.How does Aspen SIS handle state reporting requirements?
Aspen SIS has established state reporting capabilities in various states and can adapt to changes in reporting requirements. Follett’s dedicated development team delivers timely software updates to address these changes, often outside of full product upgrade cycles.What types of businesses or educational institutions does Aspen SIS serve?
Aspen SIS serves a wide range of educational institutions, including startups, small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs), mid-market, and enterprises. It is particularly suited for K-12 schools and districts.How does Aspen SIS ensure data security and privacy?
Aspen SIS ensures that all data stays within the secure platform, optimizing data privacy and security. This is particularly important for sensitive student information and other educational data.What kind of customer support is available from Aspen SIS?
Aspen SIS provides comprehensive customer support, including personalized support from the implementation team, ongoing support, and extensive training. The support is designed to help users manage their daily tasks efficiently and address any issues that may arise. By addressing these questions, you can gain a clearer understanding of how Follett Aspen SIS can meet the needs of your educational institution. Follett Aspen - Conclusion and Recommendation
Final Assessment of Follett Aspen SIS
Follett Aspen Student Information System (SIS) is a comprehensive and integrated platform that caters to the diverse needs of educators, students, and parents in the PreK-12 education sector. Here’s a detailed assessment of who would benefit most from using it and an overall recommendation.
Key Benefits and Features
- Centralized Data Management: Aspen SIS securely stores and manages a wide range of student data, including class schedules, school events, student performance, athletic eligibility, and individual health records. This eliminates the need for multiple databases and streamlines reporting and data management.
- Comprehensive Reporting: The system offers customized state reporting, personalized reports for special education, athletics, and health, which are crucial for meeting various regulatory and administrative requirements.
- Instructional Tools: Aspen includes a robust gradebook for both traditional and standards-based scoring, an integrated lesson planner, and tools for master scheduling. These features help teachers focus on student needs and improve communication with parents and students.
- Parent and Student Engagement: The system provides a student and parent portal, enhancing visibility into classroom activities, homework, and grades. This fosters better communication and involvement between families and educators.
- Health and Special Education Management: Aspen has a health database that tracks student medical information and supports special education needs, ensuring that all students receive the necessary support.
- Integration and Support: The platform integrates with various digital learning tools, including Follett Destiny®, and offers extensive support through initial setup, ongoing assistance, and professional development opportunities. This ensures a smooth transition and optimal use of the system.
Who Would Benefit Most
- Educators: Teachers and administrators benefit significantly from Aspen SIS due to its integrated instructional platform, data-driven insights, and streamlined administrative processes. These features help in identifying at-risk students, planning interventions, and improving overall student outcomes.
- Parents: Parents gain better visibility into their children’s academic performance and activities through the parent portal, facilitating more effective communication with teachers and greater involvement in their children’s education.
- Students: Students benefit from mobile access to their learning materials, improved teacher communication, and a virtual classroom environment that enhances their engagement and connection to the learning process.
Overall Recommendation
Follett Aspen SIS is a highly recommended tool for schools and districts looking to streamline their administrative processes, improve data accuracy, and enhance student performance tracking. Its comprehensive features, integration capabilities, and strong support system make it an invaluable resource for educators, parents, and students alike.
Given its wide adoption in over 122 school districts and more than 1,500 schools, serving nearly 890,000 students, Aspen SIS has demonstrated its effectiveness and reliability in supporting educational goals.
In summary, Follett Aspen SIS is a powerful, flexible, and cost-effective solution that can significantly improve the efficiency and effectiveness of educational institutions. Its ability to adapt to new needs and its commitment to ongoing support make it a valuable investment for any school or district.