School IT procurement survey finds out which tech wins

Navigating the world of IT procuring can be a nightmare for New Zealand schools. School boards and leadership have to decide which options are the best for which outcomes and environment.

Though there is no blanket solution for kitting out your school, being forewarned is forearmed, so when research comes out to lessen some of the strain we want you to see it. Information is the best weapon in your arsenal.

PB Technologies recently launched a massive survey of New Zealand schools, to see what digital offerings looked like in their facilities.

The survey covered the most popular devices, decision-makers, acquisition channels and delivered some interesting results.

Responses showed 64.83% of schools have a preference for a particular device. 35.17% were not worried what digital devices they had, as long as they got the job done.

iPads were respondents' preferred in-class device. Contradictingly, Windows was the preferred operating system and software for 51.83% of schools, with only 34.83% rating the iPad ios.

Further responses explain the discrepancy, with most schools preferring Windows' offering to improve student performance and flexibility. Whereas iPads were coveted for their ease-of-use.

The majority of schools would rather implement BYOD methods over leasing or fundraising and reported cost is the key factor, and hurdle, in improving digital offering.

To bring another brand into the ring, Chromebooks were largely thought to require the least amount of training for both students and staff. Chromebooks were also reported as being the most affordable option.

Macbooks came in last for affordability due to their prohibitive price range.

In terms of durability, Windows devices and iPads were tied for top spot, with Chromebooks a very close second.

This type of information will hopefully help schools continue to procure devices that will last, improve learning and make good on what can be a massive investment.