Connecting Systems to Close the Gap
EPPs face a persistent challenge: admin overload, disconnected systems, and confusing paper trails make compliance feel more like an obstacle than a tool. When apprenticeship tracking lives in spreadsheets and feedback is inconsistent, you can't easily deliver accreditors the evidence they're asking for.
The stakes are high. Poor tracking means missed funding opportunities and compliance risks. That's why EPPs are moving beyond makeshift solutions toward purpose-built platforms. Here are the 5 non-negotiable features that separate true apprenticeship management systems from basic tracking tools.
Feature #1: Bulletproof Compliance Alignment
What EPPs Need: A platform where compliance isn't a feature—it's the foundation.
DOL apprenticeship requirements are complex and constantly evolving. WIOA compliance adds another layer. EPPs need systems that understand these interconnected requirements and guide users through compliance automatically.
The Craft Advantage: Craft's compliance-first architecture eliminates guesswork. The AutoReg add-on automatically generates DOL-compliant Appendix A forms and ETA-671 registrations, pulling program data into exact regulatory formats.
Feature #2: Automated DOL Reporting
What EPPs Need: Real-time compliance monitoring that eliminates the quarterly scramble.
Traditional tracking creates nightmare scenarios: weeks spent pulling data from multiple systems, manually formatting reports, hoping numbers add up correctly.
The Craft Advantage: Craft's government workflow automation transforms reporting from major project to background process. Direct RAPIDS integration ensures data flows seamlessly between your program and federal databases. Michigan's teacher apprenticeship programs using Craft achieved 95%+ completion rates while securing over $78 million in state funding through automated, audit-ready documentation.
Feature #3: True Zero-Cost Foundation
What EPPs Need: Transparent pricing that scales with program growth, not against it.
Many "affordable" platforms hide costs in implementation fees, per-user licensing, and training charges that can derail entire initiatives.
The Craft Advantage: Craft provides completely free access to the full platform for institutions. No user limits. No time restrictions. No credit card required. When EPPs need advanced features like AutoReg, pricing remains transparent with consulting fees rather than ongoing subscriptions. This model allows programs to start immediately and add capabilities as they demonstrate ROI.
Feature #4: Expert Support That Scales
What EPPs Need: Implementation partners who understand both the platform and apprenticeship program complexities.
Apprenticeship tracking platforms are only as good as their implementation. EPPs need partners invested in program success, not just subscription renewal.
The Craft Advantage: US-based support that scales with your needs. The free Standard Setup includes email support, help center access, 6 live training calls, and 6 weekly check-ins. For programs needing more intensive support, the $5,000 Tailored Setup provides unlimited training calls and weekly check-ins. The TurboTax-style setup wizard uses AI assistance to guide program creation, automatically generating job descriptions and competency frameworks.
Feature #5: Ecosystem Integration
What EPPs Need: Native connections to existing systems that eliminate data silos.
Your apprenticeship platform should connect your ecosystem, not create another data island.
The Craft Advantage: Craft Education offers a documented Canvas LMS integration that supports assignment and activity workflows. The platform is designed to integrate across labor and learning systems, and supports standards-based connections like LTI.
The Bottom Line: Proven ROI
Craft users consistently report 95%+ completion rates, 10+ hours saved per apprentice through automation, and simplified audit processes. The combination of zero upfront costs, comprehensive compliance automation, and proven outcomes creates compelling value for EPPs scaling apprenticeship programs without scaling administrative burden.
Ready to see these features in action? Book a demo to experience Craft's free apprenticeship tracking platform and discover how purpose-built tracking can transform your program from administrative burden to strategic asset.
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