Starting an esports program is new territory for many educators.
That makes choosing a provider particularly important.
Organizations aren't simply selecting software. They're making decisions about technology, equipment, curriculum, student experiences, educator responsibilities, training, support, and ultimately whether the program will be sustainable.
Here are five mistakes schools and youth organizations should avoid.
Budget matters. But the least expensive option isn't necessarily the option that creates the most value.
A low-cost program can look attractive initially. But if educators are left to figure out implementation, training, equipment, program structure, and troubleshooting themselves, the real cost can quickly become much greater.
Instead of asking only, "How much does it cost?" ask:
"What exactly are we getting, and what will we still have to handle ourselves?"
Software alone doesn't create a successful program.
Schools need to understand how the program will operate in the real world.
Who will run it? How often will students participate? What equipment is necessary? How will staff be trained? What happens when someone has a question?
Technology is an important ingredient, but it's only one part of the recipe.
For many educators, this will be their first experience running an esports or gaming-based learning program.
They shouldn't be expected to become esports experts overnight.
Before selecting a provider, determine exactly what will be required from the person managing the program.
A good partner should make that person's job easier—not add unnecessary complexity to it.
Launching successfully is important. So is what happens three months later.
Programs evolve. Staff members have questions. Technology creates occasional challenges. Students' needs change.
Ask potential providers what support looks like after implementation.
Is there training? Can educators speak with someone when they need help? Is professional development available? Will the provider remain involved?
Students may initially join because they love gaming.
That's a tremendous engagement opportunity—but it doesn't have to end there.
Schools should consider what else students can gain from the experience.
Can gaming lead to career exploration? Skill development? Certifications? Teamwork? Competition? Stronger school connections?
At EGL, our goal is to combine gaming, learning, rewards, structure, training, and ongoing support into one experience.
Organizations shouldn't need to know every question to ask before their first conversation with an esports provider.
That's why we offer that guidance for free.
Schools and youth organizations can meet with our team, understand what it actually takes to launch a successful program, and then determine which partner is right for them.
EGL isn't always going to be the cheapest option.
Our goal is to provide the best value by giving partners the pieces they need to create something sustainable for educators and meaningful for students.
Before you purchase an esports solution, don't just ask what you're buying.
Ask what it will take to make it successful.