What is the difference between Network Applications and Preferred Applications?

Overview 

There are a variety of systems, applications, and types of technology used across DSST. We categorize these applications into two areas Network Applications and Preferred Applications. Below you find a detailed overview of each of these categories, their uses, purposes, and more. If you have questions please feel free to reach out to the Academic Business Systems Team. 

Network Applications

Network Applications are systems or applications that are licensed for the entire network. The applications are used for basic school functions across the network. These are paid for and managed by departments in the Home Office. There are nuances in this because some apps are not used by all teachers. Examples include Edulastic, iReady, and Peardeck. 

Network Apps Selection Process 

Network Apps are selected through a collaborative and extensive process by Home Office teams and departments.

Preferred Applications

Preferred Apps are systems or applications identified by teachers and schools and purchased to support day-to-day instruction. These are licensed for schools but require Home Office support or management. These are paid for out of the school budgets. Examples include IXL, Kami, and Turnitin. 

Preferred Apps Selection Process

Each year schools and school leadership teams receive a “menu” of preferred apps options curated by the Academic and Business Systems Team (ABS). School Directors and School Leadership teams have time to review and discuss the Preferred App options. It is recommended that during this time teachers are consulted in some form or capacity to ensure that the process is equitable. 

Schools will make their application selections in a Google Spreadsheet. Schools will also identify a point of contact or school owner of this process. However, it is important to note that a School Director is the only individual who has budgetary authority so School Directors must always have final approval. 

ABS will meet with vendors to pull final quotes for schools. These quotes will be sent to the School Directors and Finance Team for approval and purchase. Throughout the summer ABS will coordinate with vendors on Clever integration and account management. The School’s identified point of contact/school owner will receive communications and updates regarding access and readiness.