Where a spreadsheet starts to hurt
A spreadsheet has no idea who changed a cell. Two people editing the same file leads to copies, and copies lead to arguments about which one is right. Receipt numbers are typed by hand, so duplicates and gaps creep in. Report cards need the same formulas copied to every class, and one broken formula can change a result without anyone noticing.
What software adds
In software each user has their own login and sees only what their role allows. Every change is recorded with who made it and when. Receipts are numbered in order. Marks are entered once and totals, grades and ranks follow the same rule for every student.
When to switch
Move when you feel any of these: you are fixing the same mistakes every month, only one person understands the file, parents ask for receipts you cannot find, or report card time takes days. If your spreadsheet is working and you have time, there is no need to hurry.
| Excel or registers | Cometstep | |
|---|---|---|
| Several users at once | Copies of the file, risk of mix-ups | Each user has a login and a role |
| Fee receipts | Numbered by hand | Numbered in order, printable |
| Who changed what | Not recorded | Activity log with before and after |
| Report cards | Formulas copied to every class | Marks entered once, same rule for all |
| Absent student alerts | Phone calls from memory | Parents alerted automatically |
| Cost | Free | Free to start, then a fair price as you grow |
| Control and flexibility | Total | Set up your own fees, exams and designs |