Page 15 - OIT Progress Report 2014

iSupport Inventory
During the first year of the new Technology Fund allocation process, we implemented several new processes to streamline and manage the replacement of outdated desktop computers. This year, we integrated computer inventory into iSupport, our IT Help Desk application, which also drives the ordering and installation process. iSupport tracks computer assets as well as reports and auto- matically updates key data such as Active Directory, CrashPlan, LANDesk, and Windows Server Update Services. Within the various schools and departments, key individuals have been granted access to their inventory reports and to the list of machines eligible for upgrade. We continue to revise the process to ensure data accuracy and better forecasting of yearly desktop computer refreshment expenses.
TeamDynamix
Several years ago, we developed an internal process using a customized Inside.SMU list to man- age projects and ongoing maintenance requests. Soon, our needs outgrew this list, and we began investigating other tools for portfolio and project management (PPM). Our search concluded with the selection of TeamDynamix, a cloud-based solution specializing in PPM processes in Higher Education. We implemented the tool in September and are currently using it to focus on portfolio, project, and time tracking and resource management.
TeamDynamix will improve our service delivery by giving us the data we need to select and manage projects. TeamDynamix provides valuable insight into the resources required for each project and their avail- ability based on other commitments. It
will also help us to provide enhanced communication to the campus on the status and impact of active projects. TeamDynamix delineates compre- hensive cost of the services by tracking resource hours spent
on maintaining and supporting those services. This solution will help us continue to mature in critical business processes.
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Objective 2: Ongoing critical review of programs to ensure excellence through enhanced academic expectations and rigorous academic evaluation, accommodating new educa- tional ventures and implement- ing discontinuance procedures for those inconsistent with the University’s focus.
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