Finding, vetting and purchasing education technology can seem daunting. But it doesn’t have to be. A number of new online platforms like Noodle Markets, EdTech Concierge and LearnTrials are streamlining the search and bid process for both buyers and sellers.

Nicole Neal, chief executive officer at Noodle Markets, says a good system is one that simplifies the procurement process. Here are Neal’s top five tips for making large tech purchases for K-12 students.

1. Spend time upfront on needs assessment. This will help you make your requirements clear to K-12 vendors. 

2.  Know your options. There are a lot of innovative K-12 products and services that are making a real impact in classrooms. Take the time to do thorough research.

3. Leverage your network. Word of mouth can be your best way to find out what's working and what's not. Pay it forward by sharing your experiences with others, too.

4. Involve users in the selection process. Curriculum and ed tech directors, teachers, students and parents all have valuable perspectives to share.

5. Demand evidence. Look for vendors that have invested in efficacy studies and third-party evaluations like the ISTE Seal of Alignment.

ISTE members can discover the secrets behind successful ed tech purchasing and learn strategies for navigating the process in the April issue of entrsekt. Not a member? Join today.