In an era where IT departments struggle to keep up with the rapid pace of technological change, participation is growing quickly in a new ECNO service that helps school boards navigate these changes.
In 2024, ECNO negotiated an enterprise subscription with Info-Tech Research Group, one of the world’s leading IT research and advisory firms. Info-Tech’s data-driven resources and programs enable IT leaders to develop impactful IT strategies, objectively measure success, and systematically improve performance year over year. Each year, Info-Tech invests millions of dollars in its library of leading-edge tools, templates, training materials, and step-by-step methodologies that accelerate projects and transform IT departments.
School boards can gain full access to Info-Tech’s Academy by joining ECNO’s Information Research as a Service program. Fees align with ECNO’s policy of cost-recovery-only for all services, leading to significant savings for boards compared to the regular individual subscription price.
“More than 20 boards have signed up for the program and are already seeing significant benefits by accessing Info-Tech’s resources,” noted John Shanks, ECNO’s Director of Business Development.
“Small and midsized boards that may not otherwise have the opportunity to engage in a process like this will see huge value in participation. It’s a comparatively low-cost entry point to access these kinds of services, and we anticipate that many more school boards will join this year.
“Info-Tech’s material is very well organized. The way the documents are set up, you can easily find templates and studies, or take your existing framework and apply it against theirs to evaluate ‘have we done this correctly?’. They give you the option to improve and get some focused back-up information to support a case for new or different processes, staff or department structures based on thoroughly researched best practices.”
John notes that IT leaders can also engage directly with Info-Tech analysts by applying through ECNO. He will reach out to find other boards who may have similar questions or objectives, allowing all interested boards to participate in the consultation.
Interested members are encouraged to contact John Shanks to learn more about the Information Research as a Service program.