"Quality information not only increases knowledge but also reduces the risk of failure. With it, educational governance becomes more accountable," explained the Head of the Bandung City Education Office.
The value of information is also determined by comparing benefits with costs. Information that brings great benefit, even if expensive, still holds high value. On the contrary, cheap but useless information only wastes time.
Challenges in Managing Educational Information Systems
Although these concepts sound ideal, reality in the field is not always smooth. Many schools face major challenges in managing information systems: limited technological infrastructure, lack of teacher training, and low awareness of the importance of data management.
"There are still schools storing important data only in notebooks or personal files. This risks being lost or damaged," revealed a staff member of the Education Office.
In addition, weak collaboration between divisions often causes data to remain unintegrated. As a result, financial, academic, and administrative reports run separately. In fact, a good information system requires integration so that information can complement each other.
Looking Ahead to the Future of Digital Education
The four pillars---facts, data, information, and information quality---form a complete chain that complements one another. Facts provide an empirical foundation, data represent them, information gives meaning, and information quality ensures reliability.
In the digital era, the ability to manage information is not just an option but an urgent necessity. Schools that can utilize information systems will be better prepared to face curriculum changes, digital-based evaluations, and 21st-century competency demands.
"In the future, education will not be sufficient by relying only on textbooks. Data and information will be the main fuel driving the education system," emphasized the Head of the Education Office.
With a deep understanding of the Basic Insights of Information Systems, schools are expected to build governance that is more transparent, accountable, and adaptive. This is a concrete step toward quality education that not only addresses today's needs but also prepares future generations.
