NUIT 2003 Annual Report - Northwestern University Information ...

Depot
A pilot Web-enabled enterprise level storage solution for
instruction and research, is being made available through a
partnership between NUIT and the University Library.
During 2003, the project team undertook investigation and
setup of Depot in preparation for launch at the end of the
year. Depot
provides a secure, central location that allows faculty and
students to store and share important documents and files
such as syllabi, homework, notes, papers, theses, dissertations,
graphics, and any other types of digital information. Users can
easily access files and folders from anywhere online, and can
share them with groups or individuals. This project further
facilitates the communication and learning relationships
between faculty and students.
Electronic dissertations
NUIT has continued to work with the Graduate School
and the University Library to implement a system for
electronic receiving, reviewing and archiving of Northwestern
University Ph.D. dissertations. A site exhibiting dissertations
completed within the pilot phase of this project is available at
. It is hoped that
NUIT’s contributions to policy development issues inherent
in a move from paper to electronic dissertations will
encourage more faculty to seek NUIT’s advice on other
projects in which considerable cost savings can be realized
through electronic document management technologies.
Improved customer communications
NUIT focused considerable attention on improving customer
communications this year. Initiatives included the launch of
quarterly e-mail newsletters for faculty, staff and students with
information geared to each specific segment of the University
community; new Web sites (named Introductions and
Transitions) with links to detailed information about new
services and support, and upcoming changes to services; and
special seminars and presentations tailored to departmental
technical computer support staff. Another major project
launched this year is the selection of a Content Management
System to standardize management of NUIT Web page design
and updating, and improve the user-friendliness of the NUIT
Web site. Ultimately, the intent is to implement the system for
Northwestern’s Web site. Continued emphasis on creating
new and improved methods of communicating will raise
awareness in the Northwestern community about key issues
such as security threats, as well as about new services and
technology initiatives.
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Knowledge Management Initiatives