Making Interoperability Work

As the use of technology devices and products in schools increases, making those devices interoperable is a growing challenge. There are multiple ways to achieve interoperability, and the Ed-Fi Data Standard is one solution.

Since 2023, ISTE has worked with the Ed-Fi Alliance to understand the best data practices that improve student and classroom outcomes. ISTE interviewed the data standard implementers at various points of their journey, including education service agencies (ESAs), local education agencies (LEAs) and product providers. Their stories helped us understand the value and technical processes of adopting the data standard.

We learned that putting together a talented team at the beginning is important as you work to build your systems to the data standard. Also, breaking down the steps toward implementation into specific milestones will make the process more manageable.

Below are two articles that provide a sense of the work from the perspective of ESAs and providers. There is also an infographic that breaks down the Ed-Fi Data Standard into simple language, including how to define the milestones toward a successful implementation.