A digital or electronic hall pass system is something more and more schools are implementing to monitor and track students moving throughout the building. But what type of costs are involved with purchasing and setting up such a high-tech system?
The costs for a digital hall pass system can vary widely based on the specific features, number of required devices or credentials, accessories, and options chosen. Here is an overview of the main elements that impact overall pricing:
Base Systems – The hall pass technology itself from a vendor likely costs $1000-$3000 on average. This includes an admin panel, credentials and scanning devices, setup and integration services, training, warranties and support. Additional credentials, devices, and features add more.
Number of Passes/Credentials – A school needs a pass/credential for every student and staff member needing one. These might be cards, fobs, or another item with an ID tag. Unit production prices often range from $3-$10 per pass depending on the complexity and accessories.
Accessories – Accessories like lanyards, clips, printers, cameras and screens to integrate at hallway control points might cost a few hundred to a few thousand dollars more depending on items and quantities. Ongoing supplies like ink/materials require an additional budget too.
Server Hardware/Hosting – The system may run on a physical server on-site or integrate with a cloud or hosted solution. IT infrastructure, hosting plans, and networking equipment are costs to consider if not relying purely on vendor cloud servers.
Custom Features – Additional custom feature development like app integrations, customized interfaces, data visualizations, or integration with other school software and security systems may add more one-time or ongoing costs.
In total, most standard digital hall pass setups for small to medium-sized schools likely run between $5000-$15000+ to procure and implement when factoring in all costs. Larger schools with more students and robust integrations could easily spend over $25,000.
Ongoing costs like replacing damaged credentials, support fees, accessories, and potentially server/hosting costs often add a few thousand per year additionally.
FAQs
Yes, nearly all systems require that each student be assigned an individual digital pass/credential to tag their identity during scans. This ensures proper monitoring and non-sharing.
Yes, larger schools may implement the system gradually across school years to spread costs over time, starting with certain grades first. Credentials can be deactivated/added yearly.
The system vendor or school district IT team will survey hallway traffic areas and install necessary cameras, internet-enabled devices, and screens to enable checking in/out. Electrical work or WiFi boosting may also be needed.
Yes, cost elements like base systems, server equipment, accessories, or custom software developments might be split between district IT, security, and administrative budgets as applicable.
Conclusion
While digital hall pass solutions represent an investment, they provide enhanced security and insights that many school stakeholders feel are worthwhile. With good planning and budget allocation, the thousands of dollars required can deliver value for years of better monitoring and streamlining of student movement in the modern educational environment. Reach out to vendors to learn more about tailoring an E Hall pass system to your school’s unique needs and budget availability.
