The App. Online. beta

What does it need to run?

Chrome is the recommended browser at the moment. Tests on Edge, Firefox and Safari are ongoing. It will work all devices but mobile browsers often have requried features missing.

How close is it to the app?

The main part of the code is identical on this and the apps. There are some differences in how it connects and stores things and there are limitations imposed by being hosted in the browser. Generally, the experience should be the same as working on the app.

How secure is it?

The app is as secure as your browser. If you are using an up to date browser in a protected environment that strictly enforces log-in security, it is safe. It is not secure if you use it on a shared computer, in a public place.

Currently, unlike the app, because of performance concerns, student names are not encrypted when stored within the browser. They never leave the browser and are never sent to the server. To access them would require access to your device and be able to log in to your account. However, for staff, the app would still be the recommended option. Deleting the browser cache will remove all data.

For students, staff names are also stored in the browser, but as long as intials have been used, the amount of personal data is minimal.

Installing the web app (Progressive Web App)

In Chrome (and several other browsers) you can "install" the app to your device. This means a shortcut will be added to your home screen or desktop and it will work offline, just like the app. Because it is securely sandboxed, this is often not blocked by school IT systems. It works on many different devices and operating systems.

There will be an icon next to the address bar to install the app.

Plans

It is intended that the web app will be kept up to date with the app. In fact, new features may appear here first. Testing will continue, with the aim of supporting all modern browsers across all common devices used in schools.