Frequently Asked Questions
Please click on a question below to reveal its answer.
- Which server technology does Web-based SoWaLP use?
- How is Web-based SoWaLP hosted?
- How many users are able to use the system?
- Are there different access rights for users, managers, senior managers and administrators?
- Can Web-based SoWaLP be customised to blend in with our current lesson planning process?
- How much does it cost?
- Are there any recurring costs?
- Is on-site training available?
- What technical support is available?
- Who are Stanmore Software Systems?
Answers
1. Which server technology does Web-based SoWaLP use?
The application has been developed using php and MySQL the leading open source server-side scripting language and powerful database system. This combination enables us to keep costs to a minimum when compared to a proprietary system.
2. How is Web-based SoWaLP hosted?
Most establishments will opt to install the application on their own server for use either as an Intranet application, or to have available externally as a Extranet, or Internet application.
The system uses a secure login facility. User privileges are set by the system administrator.
If you prefer, we can host the application for you, or we can install it on a hosted account that you nominate (the account must support php and MySQL). We will discuss these options with you when you purchase the application.
3. How many users are able to use the system?
The system can cater for any number of users within a single establishment. SoWaLP is sold, however, using a banded pricing structure which is based on the number of full-time equivalent teaching staff employed by the purchasing establishment. If the number of user rises above the original number stated when purchasing SoWaLP we ask that the purchasing establishment pay the difference in banding fee. Failure to do so will invalidate the support first year support offered with the application.
4. Are there different access rights for users, managers, senior managers and administrators?
Yes, the system has a variety of access rights. Users may access their allocated courses/subjects and can create and edit their own schemes of work and lesson plans. Team leaders and those nominated with a 'management' function can access schemes of work and lesson plans within their delegated area. They can also access summary reports based on their delegated area. Senior managers may access the work of the institution as a whole as well as management reports for the institution as a whole.
Administrators can access all areas and have set-up rights for user accounts, etc.
5. Can Web-based SoWaLP be customised to blend in with our current lesson planning process?
Yes, we offer a 'customisation' service (cost dependant on work required). This means that we can look at the features of your current system (paper-based, or otherwise) and, where possible, build them into your customised web-based SoWaLP. Please, contact us if you would like to discuss this option.
Standard web-based SoWaLP costs from £1,440. The price is based on the FTE teaching staff numbers of the purchasing establishment (click to view price list). As mentioned above, if you would like features to be added to SoWaLP, we can provide a customised version to suit you needs (additional charges apply, based on the work involved).
7. Are there any recurring costs?
We charge an optional annual fee of £250 per original licence. This fee entitles the licence holder to free upgrades and online support via this web site (response time within 24 hours, unless exceptional circumstances occur which are beyond our control).
8. Is on-site training available?
Yes, we can provide on-site training at the rate of £350/day. We have not included training in the price of web-based SoWaLP in order to keep initial costs low. The application does include user documentation which in many cases will be sufficient to install and operate the system, but should you wish us to incorporate a training element when you buy Web-based SoWaLP, we will be happy to build this in for you.
9. What technical support is available?
As mentioned in a previous answer, the application comes with an online assistance facility which may be renewed on an annual basis. We can also provide an initial installation service should you wish us to do so. This could mean working with your IT staff to install the system on you server, or working in conjunction with your hosting company. We can discuss this your technical support needs with you at the time of purchase to ensure that you receive the right level of help.
10. Who are Stanmore Software Systems?
Stanmore Software Systems has been in business since 1993. We have developed and published a range of learning materials to support the delivery of a range of courses in the FE sector. We have also developed a number of software and database applications (including the original stand-alone version of Scheme of Work and Lesson Planner). In recent years we have moved towards web-based applications and web site development projects which include bespoke business administration and management systems. Web-based Scheme of Work and Lesson Planner is therefore a logical step based on the success of the stand-alone product.
Sun 07 September 2008 01:32