Technology & Innovation - Issue 11

“Too often, schools overpay” Who are TGE Solutions? We provide an essential advisory service to the education sector – supporting schools, colleges and MATs in making informed decisions on their telecoms, IT and broadband. What sets us apart is that we don’t sell any products. Instead, we work as part of the school or Trust team by providing audits, strategic planning and procurement services to help navigate the complexities of technology and procurement. What has been your greatest achievement? Every school we’ve helped improve is an achievement, but the standout achievement must be the collective impact we’ve made since deciding to work exclusively with schools and MATs back in 2016. Since then, we’ve helped over 1,000 schools collectively save more than £10 million, enabling them to reinvest those crucial funds into teaching and learning. This reinvestment has contributed to enhancing educational resources and improving the life prospects of countless children across the UK. What are the main challenges schools are facing? We find cost savings for 97% of the schools we work with – overpayment for technology products and services being among the biggest issues we’ve ABOUT PHIL: Phillip Allum is the managing director of TGE Solutions Contact: info@tge solutions.co.uk 01937 420 052 What’s the difference? + Trusted by over 1,000 schools to guide them through complex technology projects + 97% of schools save money through our comprehensive audit and procurement services +We don’t sell products; we act in an advisory capacity only, helping you to make more informed decisions 30 SECOND BRIEFING TGE Solutions is the UK’s leading provider of audit and procurement services for the education sector, specialising in telecoms, IT and broadband. They help schools optimise technology and ensure that suitable, cost-effective solutions are procured. Q&A Phillip Allum tells us why you should be talking to TGE Solutions before making that next big IT purchase identified. Another major challenge that schools face is complying with the DfE’s ever-changing Digital Technology Standards. Meeting these standards, while contending with budget constraints, knowledge gaps and time limitations, is one of the most common problems schools currently face. What advice would you offer to schools embarking on a technology project? I’d recommend that schools seek the services of an independent expert, like TGE Solutions, who will work on their behalf. However, for those schools wishing to manage a project themselves, my advice would be to not rush . Allow ample time to thoroughly research the market, available products, potential suppliers and pricing, before then seeking advice from other schools. Too often, schools overpay for products and services that aren’t always well-suited to their needs. How can TGE Solutions help schools? Our role is to support school and MAT business leaders in making informed technology decisions. Our audits can help identify cost-saving opportunities, ensure compliance with DfE Digital Technology Standards and optimise schools’ technology use. Our procurement services include technical solution design, preparation of tender documentation and securing competitive pricing. Our team of experts will ensure that the right solutions are procured at the best possible prices. PA R T N E R C O N T E N T 43 teachwire.net