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Sustainability in a Small IT Department

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Grand Prairie Independent School district (GPISD), Grand Prairie’s largest employer, was in decline.

The district used the same software system for over 25 years to manage its student operations and business. The district’s administrators realized that changing its software system was necessary to increase efficiency and better serve students.

“IT WAS PAINFULLY DISCLOSED THAT OUR CURRENT SYSTEM COULD NOT FULFILL OUR NEEDS.

The Challenge

GPISD’s outdated processing system made it difficult for employees to access real-time information. Lyle Dubus (GPISD executive director for instructional delivery) stated that budget reports would be 60-90 days outdated. So, we created our Access database product so that employees could access real-time financial information. “Essentially, we had to work around rather than have it work for us.

Many manual processes, which were time-consuming and tedious without easy access to information, proved difficult. The business office was closed for 60 to 90 days to prepare for the third-party audit. This was due to the lag in its systems, and most information needed to be obtained manually. The IT department also shut down the system at 10 p.m. every night to process data. This made it impossible for anyone to access important information beyond that hour. Dubus stated, “It was painfully obvious that our current system couldn’t accommodate our needs.”

“THE TEXAS BRANCH MANAGER FOR SKYWARD KNEW EVERY ATTENDEE BY THEIR FIRST NAME; IT IS VERY STRONG TO TELL THAT THEY HAD VERY STRONG ELEMENTS.”

The Solution

Dubus and his group began searching for a system already being used in other Texas districts. We didn’t want to be the first to use the system. We needed reliable technology and access to a robust local user network to answer any questions.

District officials also wanted the system to be reliable and flexible and require minimal maintenance. “We have a small IT department. Dubus stated that we knew that our new solution needed to be built on a solid foundation. It had to work right out of the box. “Our current employees are required to be able to concentrate on our core business of educating 26,000 children.

Skyward was familiar with GPISD’s business manager and superintendent, and they added the vendor to their shortlist. Skyward invited GPISD to a Texas user group meeting to learn more about Skyward and speak with Skyward customers. Skyward impressed us greatly. Skyward’s Texas Branch Manager knew every attendee by their first name. It was evident that they had solid relationships and felt like they were part of a close family.

GPISD had a six-month deadline for implementation, which Skyward was sure it could meet. “All other vendors that we considered could not meet our timeline. One vendor claimed it would take 18 months. This was unacceptable to us. Skyward did not blink and assured us they could meet our deadline. It was pretty impressive.

The district ultimately decided to implement Skyward School Business Suite and Skyward Student Management Suite.

“WE EXPECT a 100% RETURN ON OUR INVESTOR WITHIN THREE to FOUR YEARS.” WE ARE CONSIDERABLE THAT WE WILL RECEIVE INSTANT COST SAVINGS IN THE SECOND SCHOOL YEAR.

The Results

Implementation is completed in 4 months.

Dubus stated, “From a conversion and service aspects, we have been delighted at what Skyward brought to the table.” “Skyward’s project leadership has been exceptional. They have been our partners through the whole process and are there to help us with any questions. They are a pleasure to work with – there has never been any hiccup or problem.

You can complete more tasks in-house without having to hire additional staff.

Skyward gives Dubus and his staff complete control over their systems, information, and data. Dubus said, “The amazing thing is that we have moved all our information in-house and updated our systems without adding any additional staff because Skyward runs itself.” “This system will reach every district area, including teachers, custodial staff, and nurses. This system will be available to everyone.

The automation of manual processes has made them obsolete.

Dubus said, “I noticed stacks upon stacks of absence from duty forms being disposed of when I was in the purchasing office last week.” “With our School Business Suite, we have eliminated that form and the manual process. That, to me, is real change… It is certain that our productivity is improving and that resources can be focused on higher priority tasks.” Dubus stated that GPISD used to manage the requisition process manually. This automated process is saving our company 20 hours per week. That is incredible.

Increased visibility and control

Dubus stated that visibility has dramatically improved. “Our control over information has quadrupled within the past 30 days,” Dubus said. It’s a world of difference. We will be able to see the impact of our spending on our decision-making and the success of our programs.

Unforeseen benefits

“Our employees can spend less time on manual tasks and quickly access the information they need, leading to increased job satisfaction. This will allow people to devote their time to more exciting projects or helping children. Dubus stated that this would lead to a decrease in our costs over time.

Ability to prepare reports, comply with state requirements, and increase funding

Dubus stated that accurate reporting is essential for our funding. “Before Skyward, we had to create many reports to meet the requirements. This took us, on average, 8-16 hours per day for one to two working days. The words are already in our system. We can click a button to get them. We are more confident that the information is correct than ever. Skyward has extensive experience in these reporting requirements and is proactive about keeping up with any changes. They provide an update immediately if the conditions change. This relieves us of a lot of pressure and gives us more confidence.

Flexibility – Increased

The district has a flexible school-day alternative for the alternative school, which was causing compliance problems in the old system. Dubus stated that Skyward was informed about the issue, and they responded with, “we already have something prepared and ready for your review” “This showed me how proactive they were and how well they understand our business.”

A partner for the future in a modern district

Dubus stated, “It feels like we have jumped 30+ years into the future. It’s almost like we are doing business in 2009 rather than 1979.” Skyward will allow us to meet all our future needs.

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Unmasking the Power of ‘Let’s Go Brandon’: From Viral Phrase to Cultural Phenomenon

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Introduction:

In recent times, a peculiar phrase has taken the internet and popular culture by storm. “Let’s Go Brandon” has become a viral sensation, capturing the attention of millions and sparking intense debates. Originating from a controversial incident, this seemingly innocuous phrase has evolved into a powerful symbol of dissent and political expression. In this article, we will delve into the origins, meaning, and impact of “Let’s Go, Brandon,” exploring how it has transcended its initial context and become a cultural phenomenon.

  1. The Genesis of “Let’s Go Brandon”:

The origins of “Let’s Go Brandon” can be traced back to a NASCAR race interview in October 2021. The phrase was born out of a misinterpretation by an NBC Sports reporter who attempted to downplay the chants of “F*** Joe Biden” heard from the crowd by claiming they were chanting “Let’s Go Brandon.” The phrase quickly gained traction on social media, taking on a life of its own.

  1. A Disguised Expression of Dissent:

Although initially presented as a euphemism for supporting NASCAR driver Brandon Brown, “Let’s Go Brandon” soon revealed its true nature. It became a clever and subtle way for individuals to express their dissatisfaction and disagreement with President Joe Biden and his administration. The phrase served as a form of political satire, allowing people to voice their opinions while maintaining a sense of humor and plausible deniability.

  1. Cultural Impact and Memetic Evolution:

What started as a simple miscommunication swiftly evolved into a full-blown cultural phenomenon. “Let’s Go Brandon” rapidly spread across social media platforms, dominating memes, hashtags, and even music charts. Artists created remixes and songs centered around the phrase, further amplifying its reach and impact. It became a rallying cry for those who felt marginalized or ignored, transcending political affiliations and resonating with a wide range of individuals.

  1. Political Divisions and Social Commentary:

The popularity of “Let’s Go Brandon” revealed the deep divisions within contemporary society. Supporters hailed it as a form of free speech and a means of challenging mainstream narratives, while critics dismissed it as a disrespectful and divisive attack on the presidency. The phrase became a flashpoint for political debates, reflecting the broader polarization that exists in today’s socio-political landscape.

  1. Lessons Learned and Unifying Potential:

While “Let’s Go Brandon” has undoubtedly fueled divisive conversations, it also offers an opportunity for reflection. It highlights the importance of open dialogue, understanding differing perspectives, and finding common ground. The phrase serves as a reminder that even in times of deep polarization, there is value in respectful discourse and the search for shared values.

Conclusion:

“Let’s Go Brandon” is much more than a simple phrase. It represents a cultural phenomenon that emerged from a misinterpretation but quickly grew into a powerful expression of dissent and political commentary. It has ignited debates, showcased societal divisions, and prompted conversations about free speech, satire, and the state of democracy. Whether one views it as a humorous meme or a disrespectful attack, there is no denying the impact “Let’s Go Brandon” has had on popular culture and the broader socio-political discourse. As the phrase continues to evolve and provoke reactions, it serves as a reminder of the power of words and the ever-changing nature of our digital age.

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: Mastering the Art of Crucial Conversations: A Guide to Effective Communication

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Introduction: Effective communication is a vital aspect of our personal and professional lives. It is through communication that we express our thoughts, feelings, and ideas, and collaborate with others to achieve our goals. However, not all conversations are easy, and some are more challenging than others. In such cases, we need to master the art of crucial conversations to ensure effective communication.

Understanding Crucial Conversations: What They Are and Why They Matter

Crucial conversations are those conversations that are emotionally charged, and where the stakes are high. These conversations can occur in any setting, be it personal or professional, and can relate to various topics, such as conflict resolution, performance feedback, or difficult decisions. The reason why these conversations matter is that they have the potential to make or break relationships, influence outcomes, and impact the future.

The Crucial Conversations Framework: A Practical Guide to Effective Communication

To master the art of crucial conversations, we need a framework that guides us through the process. The Crucial Conversations Framework is a practical guide to effective communication that can help us navigate through challenging conversations. The framework consists of four key elements:

  1. Start with the heart: Before starting the conversation, we need to examine our motives, intentions, and emotions. We should aim to create a safe and respectful environment that promotes open dialogue and mutual understanding.
  2. Stay in dialogue: During the conversation, we should aim to stay in dialogue, rather than resorting to silence or violence. This means listening actively, speaking honestly, and showing respect for the other person’s perspective.
  3. Make it safe: To ensure a productive conversation, we need to create a safe space where everyone feels comfortable expressing their views. This means avoiding personal attacks, defensiveness, or aggression, and instead focusing on the issues at hand.
  4. Explore others’ paths: Finally, we need to explore others’ paths by asking questions, seeking clarification, and acknowledging different viewpoints. This can help us identify areas of agreement and disagreement and work towards a shared understanding.

a practical and effective way to learn and apply the Crucial Conversations Framework is through the Crucial Conversations PDF. This comprehensive resource provides step-by-step guidance on how to prepare for, initiate, and navigate through crucial conversations. The PDF includes case studies, real-life examples, and practical exercises that can help us develop our communication skills and confidence in difficult conversations.

The Crucial Conversations PDF covers a range of topics, including:

  • Understanding the dynamics of crucial conversations and their impact on relationships and outcomes
  • Identifying our own communication style and learning how to adapt it to different situations
  • Developing emotional intelligence and empathy to better understand others’ perspectives
  • Practicing active listening and effective speaking to ensure clear and respectful communication
  • Dealing with difficult emotions, such as anger, fear, or frustration, and managing our own reactions
  • Building trust and rapport through open and honest communication
  • Creating a collaborative and problem-solving mindset that focuses on mutual goals and interests.

Conclusion: Mastering the art of crucial conversations is not easy, but it is essential for effective communication and successful outcomes. By understanding the dynamics of crucial conversations, applying the Crucial Conversations Framework, and using resources such as the Crucial Conversations PDF, we can develop our communication skills, build stronger relationships, and achieve our goals.

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The Ultimate Guide to ATT Email Login: How to Access Your ATT Email Account

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Introduction

In today’s digital world, email has become an essential part of our lives. Whether it’s for personal or professional use, we rely on email to communicate with others, share files and documents, and stay up-to-date with important information. One email provider that has been around for years is ATT Email. In this article, we will provide a step-by-step guide on how to access your ATT Email account, including troubleshooting tips for any login issues you may encounter.

How to Access Your ATT Email Account

Step 1: Open your web browser and go to www.att.net.

Step 2: Click on the “Sign in” button located at the top right corner of the page.

Step 3: Enter your ATT email address and password in the corresponding fields.

Step 4: Click on the “Sign In” button.

Congratulations! You have successfully logged in to your ATT email account.

Troubleshooting ATT Email Login Issues

While accessing your ATT email account is generally straightforward, you may encounter login issues from time to time. Here are some common issues and how to fix them:

Issue 1: Incorrect email or password

Double-check that you have entered your email and password correctly. If you have forgotten your password, click on the “Forgot Password” link located beneath the login fields. You will be prompted to enter your email address and follow the steps to reset your password.

Issue 2: Browser-related issues

Clear your browser’s cache and cookies and try logging in again. If the issue persists, try using a different browser.

Issue 3: Account Security

If you have recently changed your password, ensure that you are using the updated password to log in. Also, ensure that your account is not compromised by checking for any unusual activity or changes in your account settings.

Issue 4: Technical issues

If the above solutions do not work, contact ATT customer support for further assistance.

Additional Tips for ATT Email Users

Apart from the login process and troubleshooting tips, here are some additional tips that ATT email users should know:

  1. Use a strong password: To keep your account secure, ensure that you use a strong password that is difficult to guess. A strong password should be at least eight characters long, and it should include a combination of uppercase and lowercase letters, numbers, and special characters.
  2. Enable two-factor authentication: Two-factor authentication adds an extra layer of security to your account. Once enabled, you will be required to enter a unique code sent to your phone or email address before you can access your account.
  3. Use the ATT Email app: If you prefer to access your email on the go, consider downloading the ATT Email app. The app is available for both Android and iOS devices and can be downloaded from the respective app stores.
  4. Familiarize yourself with the features: ATT email comes with various features such as email filters, spam protection, and customizable themes. Take some time to explore these features to make your email experience more personalized and efficient.

Conclusion

In conclusion, ATT email is a reliable email service provider that offers its users various features to enhance their email experience. By following the login process and troubleshooting tips outlined in this article, you should be able to access your account without any issues. Additionally, by implementing the tips outlined above, you can keep your account secure and personalize your email experience.

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