Why You Need a Credential Pathway System

Managing student credentials can be a headache, especially in an educational world that’s constantly changing. Traditional methods alone just aren’t cutting it anymore, which is why credential pathway systems (CPS) are on the rise.

Read on to learn how  your school can benefit from implementing a CPS and how it will transform your credentialing process.

The Problem With Traditional Record Management 

Credential management refers to the process of how schools issue, store, and verify academic and professional credentials — including diplomas, certificates, and transcripts. School systems have traditionally relied solely on paper-based processes for credential management, but over the years, these methods have revealed several significant issues for both schools and learners:

• Manual credential management is time-consuming.
• There’s an increased risk of mistakes with manual handling.
• Paper records can be easily lost or damaged, limiting student access.
• Traditional methods can’t always keep up during peak times like graduation.
• Paper records are vulnerable to theft and fraud.

Exploring the Growth and Value of Digital Credentials

To overcome the headaches and inefficiencies of traditional methods, schools are increasingly turning to credential management systems — a digital solution designed to streamline academic and professional credential management. This shift is essential, especially since 81% of students want their schools to provide a digital experience that continues after graduation, according to a 2022 Digital Experience Report.

Integrating digital credentials is no longer just a trend — it’s a necessity. They offer a secure, tamper-proof way to issue and verify academic achievements, ensuring their authenticity. And in a connected world, digital credentials make it easier for graduates to apply for jobs and further education across borders.

With these changing trends and student expectations, digital credential management systems provide a more streamlined, secure, and scalable way to meet the modern needs of both your school and its students.

What Are the Benefits of a Credential Pathway Management?

Effectively implementing a Credential Pathway System not only transforms how you handle academic and professional records but also offers a range of other benefits, including:

• Boosted accuracy: Reduce errors by automating processes that are prone to human mistakes.
• Cost savings: Record Nations reports that U.S. schools spend as much as $1.6 billion on paper annually. Digitization means you can cut down on long-term costs associated with printing, shipping, and storage.
• Improved security: Safeguard student data with end-to-end encryption and secure access controls.
• Greater efficiency: By streamlining the issuance and verification of credentials, you ease the burden on your administrative teams. This frees up your staff to focus on what really matters — the students.
• Scalability: A CPS adapts to growing student numbers and credential demands without added strain.

6 Best Practices for Successful Implementation 

Not sure how to get started? Here are six best practices to help you find the ideal credential management system and implement it effectively:

1. Conduct a needs assessment to identify your school’s specific requirements.
2. Select a CPS that integrates seamlessly with your existing systems like learning management and student information systems.
3. Provide comprehensive training for staff and students alike to ensure a smooth transition to a CPS — maximizing its value.
4. Regularly collect feedback to address issues and make necessary adjustments.
5. Follow best practices for data security in education and make sure your security protocols are up to date.
6. Choose a CPS that can grow with your institution and adapt to future needs.

How Parchment Streamlines Your School’s Record Management

Parchment makes implementing a credential management system straightforward with its all-in-one platform. By digitizing and centralizing your credential processes, Parchment enables you to securely manage and exchange transcripts, diplomas, and other academic records efficiently. We support a smooth transition to digital credentialing with features like:

• Automated record requests.
• Secure data handling.
• Easy integration with existing systems.

That way, your school saves time and reduces administrative burdens while providing a modern, scalable solution for student and alumni needs. Ready to get started? Contact us or book a demo today.

There’s always more to learn.