Technology Initiatives for 2009-2010

Given the diverse roles of technology users on campus, IT in collaboration with InTech, will emphasize projects that support overall communications and productivity, enhance learning, secure information and reduce campus use of natural resources.

Supporting the learning/teaching experience   

Starting this Fall, IT is:
• Working with the campus Creative Learning Spaces workgroup to study and build innovative prototype collaborative learning spaces in the library and throughout campus, and with the new LabModel team to develop a sustainable campus computer lab model. Our first project includes two Collaborative Presentation spaces in the library,

• Supporting InTech in the use of the Wimba collaboration suite for the Classroom, a WebEx-like videoconferencing program, and varied fixed and mobile smart board and podcasting technologies,

• Working with InTech to develop a Technology Support Program for Adjuncts,

• Upgrading classroom presentation systems with faster computers and simplified amplifier systems, along with the addition of three new classroom projection systems in the Band room, Art studio and History seminar room.
  

Enhancing Communications     

Later this year, IT will,
• Provide wifi access at the room level in the residence halls, using new, wider casting 802.11n AP units,

• Support SGA’s development of a proto-type Digital Signage system for the campus,

• Implement new email program for students (G-mail),

• Initiate an IT blog site for quick information bytes on a weekly basis.

Enhancing productivity      

IT will be creating new online options for users, including:
• Online purchase orders/requisitions, budget summary/selection use that will allow budget officers to view summaries of their accounts at any time, online check requests forms, and an online campus directory, updated daily,

• New workflow account/system exit procedures, that  foster improved security and improved efficiency of account maintenance, and

• Support for the new Judicial Affairs Management System (JAMS). This comprehensive package of web-based tools increases the level of coordination between Student Affairs, campus groups, and students.

Enhancing technology service and training      

Also, this year, IT will,
• Implement a remote network management system, through LanRev and Active Directory, to manage and automate software updates as well as validate  license and computer use,

• Provide new printing and web-access options for students with the development of a printer/email kiosk prototypes,

• Expand the functionalities of our online Web Help Desk site, and

• Expand use of the shared file network.

To secure campus data and ensure its accessibility given a disaster      

Continuing through out the year,
• MIST (McDaniel Information Security Team), will redouble its efforts to develop and implement new information security policies and training programs,

• Work on the new campus collocation center, to insure the availability of critical services, and a business continuity plan,

• The development of an online security website showcasing materials related to safe computer use.

• Implemention of Clean Access for faculty/staff.

Reduce the use of natural resources       

IT will begin implementing its' new Green Technology plan by,
• Reducing lab power consumption via a power management system,

• Increasing the number of virtualized servers and computer on campus, and

• Replacing old CRT monitors with low energy LCD models.