Unlocking the Value of EdTech Investments: VOI/TCO for Education Leaders

Unlocking the Value of EdTech Investments: VOI/TCO for Education Leaders is a hands-on workshop designed to equip education leaders with practical strategies to evaluate and communicate the full value of their technology investments. Participants will explore the principles of Total Cost of Ownership (TCO) and Value of Investment (VOI), learning how to move beyond traditional ROI to capture long-term educational impact. The workshop includes real-world case study analysis, practical budgeting tools, and cost modeling techniques with a focus on cybersecurity, equity, and district scalability. Leaders will gain experience in building compelling investment narratives for decision-makers, linking budgeting data to student outcomes, and aligning technology initiatives with district strategy. By the end of the session, attendees will begin drafting their own district-specific case study and communication plan. This workshop is ideal for leaders seeking to drive smarter, more strategic EdTech investments.

I'm excited about the opportunity to provide this new workshop based on the newly developed 8-module course, CoSN's Unlocking the Value of EdTech Investments (scheduled to be complete by 1-31-2026). The following is a proposed layout of the workshop.

Unlocking the Value of EdTech Investments: VOI/TCO for Education Leaders
This 8-module course is designed for education technology leaders to build fluency in Total Cost of Ownership (TCO) and Value of Investment (VOI) principles, with an emphasis on cybersecurity integration and other areas of practical application for school districts. Developed with guidance from CoSN’s Committees, with representation from a cross-section of committees, the course includes real-world case study analysis and encourages participants to build their own case study.
Learning Objective 1: Introduction to VOI/TCO in K–12
Learning Objective 2: Assessing and Updating VOI/TCO Resources
Learning Objective 3: Direct and Indirect Cost Modeling
Learning Objective 4: Making the Case to Leadership
Learning Objective 5: VOI for Education Technology Investments
Learning Objective 6: Modeling VOI/TCO Across the Lifecycle
Learning Objective 7: Equity, Efficiency, and Small-District Focus
Learning Objective 8: Capstone: Create Your Own Case Study + Promotion Strategy