Focus On These Things When Shopping For Childcare Software For Your Daycare Center
As someone who runs a daycare center, there are a lot of things for you to take care of on a day-to-day basis. You may already have a record keeping system in place, but access to childcare software can give you a streamlined, more secure way of handling your finances, records and other documents related to your daycare center. Here are some things to focus on when shopping for this kind of software, so you can select a program that is suitable.
Security
Your facility may have sensitive information about a number of the children who attend your daycare, including addresses, payment information, medications and information about family members who are not allowed to pick them up. If you still keep a lot of paper records, anyone can walk into the office and take a look at a particular child's file when no one is looking.
Childcare software offers a layer of security, as you can scan documents and store all family records inside the software. However, as you choose the right software for your facility, look for additional security measures you can use. For example, one software suite may require passwords before allowing anyone to view records. Online, web-based childcare software can even provide SSL technology for additional security through encryption of information.
Ability to Import Records
It can be time-consuming to have to start from scratch with new software, particularly when you have used other programs for family information and payment schedules. Look for software that allows you to import information from other popular spreadsheet or word processors you may be currently using. This will save you time because you won't have to enter information all over again.
Free Trials
Before spending money on a childcare software suite, look for free trials that will allow you to test out the software before making a final purchase. This will allow you to get an idea of which software is easy to use and which is more challenging and less user-friendly.
You will also be able to find out how much of the package is useful for your particular daycare center. It will not help you or your staff to buy childcare software that you don't use fully, so ensure that you select software that has features you'll use regularly.
Use these tips to guide you toward a suitable childcare software suite for your daycare center. You should soon see that your facility is better organized. Consider a program, such as I Care, for your daycare facility.