Education IT Equipment Supply: The Journey
At Equal Education, we believe that innovation, properly safeguarded, offers a new way of approaching traditional challenges. We are the only LAC specialist provider of tutoring services, both face-to-face and online, across the nation.
We have extended our offering to become the only company that is supplying device managed IT equipment to this underserved group. In a separate blog, we have highlighted the safety features of this solution.
Prior to this pandemic we have been exploring digital tools and identifying those which are most appropriate for the learners we serve. Our initial observation was that the IT equipment market is fragmented and very few offerings are specifically tailored to the needs of our learners. Delivering a streamlined solution for this group is therefore a priority.
This prompted a market engagement and review exercise, best addressed by evaluating:
Price
Safeguarding and device management
User/learner experience
Device robustness
Delivery and deployment
Reputation of supplier
Ease of maintenance and repair
Unity between hardware and software
Apple’s technology scored most highly. We were able to build on this to create a relationship with Apple UK. By generating a symbiotic relationship with Apple, we can be confident that the hardwire device management solution will safeguard our learners whilst providing an enriched educational experience.
Rapid and safe delivery of Apple iPad technology protects students and their families from any large scale social disruption, future-proofing sustainable learning.
The wider Apple UK team is supporting us in this important endeavour. This close collaboration allows us unique access to deliver Apple technology (1000+ iPads and keyboards within 3-5 business days).
Going forwards, we will work with app partners to maximise technologies such as VR and AR that will further enhance the learning experience.
This is a sustainable policy; Apple has a proven recycling solution (e.g. Apple's Liam, a robot that recycles iPhones).
To summarise, device management is secure. Equal Education is able to deliver this solution whilst following government advice on social distancing and working from home. We are passionate about closing the Digital Divide and look forward to being an active part of the solution, helping children continue learning safely.