10 Questions to ask EdTech Vendors Before You Buy

Aug 01, 2018 2018-08-01

Project Unicorn is an educational initiative that strives to improve data interoperability in K-12 education. The initiative continuously works on determining shared priorities and forging partnerships between school systems and vendors. The team has compiled a list of 10 questions that decision makers and technology purchasers for schools and districts should ask vendors before deciding on a product.

How does your product allow me to import, export, or synchronize information? What types of information can I transfer and in what format?
Does your product have a data standard such as Ed-Fi, IMS Global, or Access 4 Learning?
Do you adhere to secure student data privacy policies? Are you a signatory of the Future of Privacy Forum Student Privacy Pledge?
Has your development team received training about data privacy and security? Does your architecture support student data security?
How does your application architecture support scalability to provide fast response times to high volume and product usage?
What is the process for incorporating your product into our curriculum? How will we implement the new workflow with this product?
May I reach out to customers who have incorporated your product into their curriculum to ask about their experience?
Does your product rely on research to demonstrate impact and inform product improvement?
If we choose not to continue with your product, what would happen to our data?
Have you signed the Project Unicorn Vendor Pledge?

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