What is Lynchpin?
Lynchpin is an interoperability system that can move data from a school’s MIS system. Lynchpin will automatically create, amend, populate or delete accounts in the Netmedia Learning Platform. It also has the ability to work with other SIF compliant online systems. Lynchpin supports both the SIF (Schools Interoperability Framework) and IMS standards for data exchange with school MIS systems.
Why use Lynchpin?
Lynchpin has a number of features that take the headache out of data management for schools:
· Reduces the administrative burden on schools by eliminating the need for a manual process – no need to enter the same data multiple times
· Populates pupils into year and class groups automatically from the MIS to the Netmedia Learning Platform - save time in setting this up for each pupil
· MIS independence – has the ability to work with all the major MIS providers
· Flexibility in system settings, including choice of user names and frequency of synchronisation - personalise to suit your needs and pupils
· Centrally hosted system – simplifies management of user accounts
· Ability to work with any SIF compliant systems, including Netmedia’s Learning Platform – fully integrates with a SIF Zone Integration Server
What about security?
As Lynchpin involves the exchange of data there are a number of built-in features to ensure users are protected at all times:
- access is password protected using encrypted log-ins
- once passwords have been changed by the user they can’t be viewed
- passwords are stored using one-way hash encryption
What is the Schools Interoperability Framework?
The Schools Interoperability Framework (SIF) is an international standard used to link together different school data systems. SIF provides an interoperability standard that allows diverse applications within the education sector to interact and share data reliably and securely regardless of the application or platform it is hosted on.
At the heart of the SIF is the Zone Integration Server (ZIS), which orchestrates the exchange of data among applications in. Each application has a SIF agent that communicates with the ZIS to provide and/or subscribe to data. Data is transferred securely to only those systems that are allowed to view the information. The ZIS can be hosted in the LA or by a third party.
Netmedia were partners in the Birmingham SIF proof of concept that proved how SIF can be used to successfully transport user data from schools to the LA, Department for Children, Schools and Families and Learning Platforms. Becta produced a report detailing the findings of the proof of concept which you can download here.
How can Netmedia help you?
Netmedia can help authorities prepare for SIF, and to get the most from its implementation. As founder members of UK SIFa we have a unique insight into how SIF is developing and how to maximise the benefits to local authorities and schools.
If you want to find out more then please contact your Account Director or at enquiries@netmediaeducation.com
