From: dl_all-empl-cur-allact_a-bounces@lists.uwp.edu on behalf of Campus Technology Services [campus.technology@uwp.edu]
Sent: Wednesday, June 13, 2007 4:29 PM
To: dl_all-empl-cur-allact_a@lists.uwp.edu
Subject: Important upcoming technology changes - Please Read

Colleagues,

In efforts to provide the campus community with a more current, reliable, secure, and sustainable computing environment, UW Parkside is initiating a series of Network & Desktop Technology upgrade projects over the next few months.  These projects will provide the foundation for establishing and maintaining a more strategic, adaptable and cost effective approach to technology infrastructure management.  An approach we believe is better aligned with the ever escalating computing needs of the campus community.  We have titled this new approach “Evolve IT” in recognition that technology is constantly evolving along with our needs and use for it.  

We know how important the UW-P network and desktop environment is to your work, so we want to share some high level details around the benefits you can expect from these initial “Evolve IT” projects.  

What improvements will the “Evolve IT” initiative provide?

• “Anywhere Remote Access” to all network accessible data and computing resources for improved productivity, collaboration, file and data access and sharing.

• Improved computing security, reliability and performance through greater protection from malicious software and security breaches.

• On-going, pro-active procurement of newer, more reliable, robust and energy efficient computer equipment for all departments, classroom and computer labs.

• Substantial campus wide cost saving on computer acquisition through aggressively discounted pricing on volume purchase agreements with select preferred vendors.

• Enhanced consistency, supportability and recovery from computer failures through greater standardization of hardware and UW-P computer images.
  

What the “Evolve IT” upgrade project teams need/encourage from you:

• We need your understanding, support and assistance with the following activities, as we proceed with these important and sizable technology initiatives:

• Final validation of planned numbers and types of replacement computers targeted for upgrades this year within your areas. (This information has been shared previously and needs to be finalized by Deans/Department heads now.)

• Removal of unnecessary or obsolete software and files from your current workstations to simplify the process of upgrading existing computers and deployment of new units to enable the improvements described above.

• Testing of upgraded workstations and network access rights and services to ensure their proper functioning.
  

We will provide additional project specifics and timely updates relevant to you, per our schedule as appropriate.  Please watch for communications referencing the “Evolve IT” initiative to ensure your ongoing awareness.   As always please feel free to contact me or Ann Marie Durso if you have any questions or concerns in regards to these initiatives and how they may affect you.

Regards,
Lee