In 1972, our founder invented the student information system (SIS), a first-of-its-kind technology that used student data to create efficiencies and deliver reporting for school districts. Today, the SIS exists much the same as it did 50 years ago.
It’s still a repository of student data that can be queried and analyzed to make decisions and report on progress, so when we think about this industry we created, we also consider how to innovate beyond that initial invention. The questions we ask ourselves today are:
- What are the next levels of a SIS?
- What can we learn from similar platforms to integrate best-of-breed interactions that promote usage, and by extension, outcomes?
- How can we advance an industry with entrenched, legacy processes?
- How can we make a more meaningful impact on society and change our students’ futures?”
The answer: INNOVATION!
We believe empathetic innovation starts with us.
Defining Innovation at Aeries
Innovation drives everything we do at Aeries. During his keynote at virtual AeriesCon, President Brent Lloyd emphasized that our North Star is delivering data-driven, intuitive, and innovative solutions that empower communities to advance student success.
By studying disruptors like Airbnb, Uber, and OpenTable—who revolutionized long-standing industries—we embrace the same spirit to rethink and reimagine student information systems. Guided by this mission, we remain committed to creating meaningful advancements that positively impact schools and students.
The Four Pillars of Aeries Innovation
When our Product & Development division thinks about this mission, we investigate the new and exciting technologies around us and adopt new processes and methodologies to make our work more efficient and effective. We ideate ways to extend the data stored within our software to other modalities like mobile applications, portals, and more.
Today, we’re innovating Aeries in four key ways.
1. Quality in Every Step
Innovation doesn’t end when a product ships—it’s an ongoing process to enhance the user experience. Driving toward student success means delivering products that are user-centered, secure, and reliable.
We focus on minimizing bugs, improving performance, and creating scalable solutions that support new enhancements while meeting the high standards our stakeholders expect.
2. Process & Methodology
Every great product starts with a strong foundation. At Aeries, we’ve invested in efficient software development processes that enable us to engage with users, understand their challenges, and deliver meaningful solutions. We ensure consistent, high-quality results by refining how we manage requirements, development, testing, and quality assurance.
This dedication extends to change management and project management, allowing us to effectively track product development and engineering efforts to deliver impactful new features and functionality.
3. Cloud Technology
Moving Aeries to the cloud has been one of our most significant advancements. The cloud provides schools with greater reliability, scalability, and uptime, all while reducing risk. By hosting the SIS off-premises, districts can focus their resources on technologies that directly support student success.
The cloud also opens doors to nearly limitless possibilities, allowing us to innovate and explore new opportunities.
4. Exploring Future Tech
Finally, we’re looking at future tech and asking ourselves, “What if?” Bold questions drive our vision for the future, such as:
- What if we incorporated emerging technologies into our tools today?
How could we use innovations like Generative AI and machine learning to make a difference now? - How is the technology landscape shifting?
What trends and advancements could we leverage to improve educational outcomes and processes? - What if we harnessed the data in the SIS?
By unlocking the potential of the vast amount of stored data, how could we positively impact student outcomes across districts, states, and beyond? - How can we rethink success?
What new ways can we find to measure achievements, tackle challenges, and foster continuous learning?
These questions inspire us to reimagine what’s possible, driving innovation that supports schools and empowers students.
Partnering for Progress and Innovation
At Aeries, collaboration is at the heart of our mission. Our Product & Development division is committed to crowd-sourcing ideas and insights from you—our customers and partners—while empathizing with the challenges you face every day. By embracing new technologies, refining processes, and working together, we’re shaping solutions that empower schools and improve student outcomes.
Innovation isn’t just a buzzword; it’s a shared effort to make a lasting impact on society and change the future for students everywhere. Together, we are advancing education and creating opportunities for a brighter tomorrow.