Building a reliable, responsive infrastructure

New name reflects broader services

Internal IT Support, a unit within the Division of Information Resources, kicked off the new year in 2002 with a new name: Networking and Media Services (NMS). Originally established to provide desktop support and training, the unit expanded its services to keep abreast of the explosive growth in technology and client expectations.

Services now offered by NMS include:

• Desktop support and helpdesk services

• Networking design and maintenance

• System administration

• Videoconferencing services

• Specialized training

• Audio-visual services

• Collaboration on IT procurement

In addition to the UNC Office of the President and UNC General Administration, NMS provides services to UNC affiliates and associated programs including:

• UNC-TV

• N.C. Center for School Leadership Development

• N.C. State Approving Agency

• GEAR UP North Carolina

• N.C. Center for Nursing

• N.C. Center for International Understanding

Collaborating on security standards

Networking and Media Services is an active participant in the UNC Net Study Group, an organization of networking professionals on UNC campuses. A sub-committee focusing on security standards is expected to issue baseline security standards and policies for campuses in Fall 2002, much as UNC established baseline networking and bandwidth standards in 2000.

The goal is to establish a common plan to protect campuses from pranks as well as acts of terrorism, while offering campuses the flexibility to enhance certain standards to meet unique needs. For more information, contact Derrick Murray, dtmurray@email.uncc.edu.

Expanding the role of digital TV

Networking and Media Services is working in conjunction with UNC-TV to explore the potential of digital TV in e-Learning and content delivery. Funds from the UNC Bond Program enabled the statewide TV network to convert the station to a digital format.

In addition to delivering a better quality image, digital TV enables the Public Broadcasting affiliate to deliver educational content on demand to e-Learning students.

NCCU, one of the first campuses to use digital TV, is incorporating the technology into its online birth through kindergarten degree program.

Supporting professional development for teachers

Networking and Media Services is providing IT support for the new 50,000-square-foot UNC Center for School Leadership Development, a conference facility serving educators from novice teachers to veteran administrators.

The center features computer labs, lecture spaces and seminar rooms, all wired for Internet access and equipped with the latest in audiovisual technology. Two videoconference rooms also are available.

The arrangement between the center and NMS leverages the technical expertise available within the Division of Information Resources, thereby creating cost efficiencies for both entities.

On the horizon

• Collaborate with Special Projects on establishment of acceptable use policies for the Office of the President and General Administration.

• Assist campuses in examining the potential of "next step" convergence opportunities for traditional data and voice networks, including wireless technologies.