All posts by Randolph Pfaff

Microsoft Unveils Windows 8

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In October, Microsoft released the newest version of the Windows operating system. Windows 8 represents a big change for Microsoft because it is designed to work across computers, tablets, and phones. It also takes advantage of new technologies like cross-device synchronization and cloud computing by incorporating them directly into the operating system.

Any major change to an operating system (like Windows or Mac OS) presents a unique challenge for the Technology team. We need to simultaneously support customers who are using the new system and carefully plan for an upgrade of all compatible Simmons-owned computers and devices.

At this time, we are working to provide Service Desk employees with the skills needed to support Windows 8 as members of the Simmons community begin purchasing devices running the new operating system. We’re also making a careful assessment of the effort involved in upgrading compatible computers at Simmons. The first step will be to install Windows 8 on several computers in Technology and on a small number of public-use computers in the library. Deploying Windows 8 to these computers will allow us to assess its viability for a large scale upgrade in the next 12-18 months.

If you are considering upgrading your personal computer or purchasing a new device running Windows 8, we recommend visiting the officialMicrosoft Windows 8 website, where you can get more information about the operating system and find out how it is different from previous versions.

An Update on Google Apps for Faculty and Staff

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As we continue to plan the migration of faculty and staff email and calendaring to Google Apps for Education, we want to keep you up to date on the project. We respect your need for information, so we will be transparent throughout this process as we bring these powerful new tools online for the community.

Right now, Technology is working with the Leadership Team to determine dates for migrating faculty and staff. The migration will be done in phases so we can provide individual assistance and instruction to everyone. Our goal is to begin the migration in January and continue through the Spring semester. We hope to have the full migration schedule available for you in December.

In order to prepare for the migration and to better anticipate issues that might arise, we are currently moving all Technology employees to Google Apps for Education. This pilot period will help us work through technical challenges so we can minimize disruption during the larger migration. During this period, our staff is also completing additional Google Apps training and certification so they can provide expert-level support.

With regard to training and support, we are evaluating options for online and on-site training sessions and preparing a project website that will provide you with the migration schedule, answers to commonly asked questions (for example, what if you have a personal Gmail account?), links to support resources, and more. You can access the site here, and we hope you’ll continue to check back for updates as we move forward.

We will continue to communicate updates frequently via this newsletter, the project site, and individual messages as necessary, and we are always available to answer questions you have.

Google Apps for Education: Core vs. More

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In addition to Google Apps for Edu Core Apps such as Gmail and Calendar, Simmons has enabled Consumer Apps, such as Google+, Blogger, YouTube, Maps, and more.

These additional apps present a wealth of resources for the Simmons community, but they do differ from the Core Apps in a few important ways. For example, Core Apps are covered in the contract that Simmons has with Google, meaning that none of the information in those apps will be used by Google for any purpose other than providing service and support for our Google Apps for Education account.

Consumer Apps are additional services provided by Google that Simmons has enabled to improve your experience using Google Apps for Education. The first time you use any of the Consumer Apps, you will be asked to agree to a separate set of terms and conditions that cover those products. These products are not covered by the same agreement that governs use of the Core Apps and using them with your Simmons account is equivalent to using a personal Google account.

Because the Consumer Apps are not covered under our agreement with Google, no one at Simmons will be required to use any of the Consumer Apps and choosing not to use them will in no way affect your use of the Core Apps.

To find out more, please see this article on the Google Apps for Edu project website. If you have any questions about Consumer Apps, please contact us at 617-521-2222.