Glendale Community College's (GCC's) Office of Information Technology (OIT) has completed the installation phase of the eGCC workstation migration, opening a new era in computing for campus-based students and distance learners as well as staff and faculty who support the learning community.

The migration involved the conversion of 2,800 student and office computers from the Novell environment to Active Directory. As a result, users will see a better workstation support system starting with the Helpdesk. By consolidating on one platform, technicians can identify and solve computer problems even faster for reduced down time. The eGCC computers are standardized, and all users' data is saved on a server. This means if a user's computer dies for any reason, a replacement computer can be placed within an hour or two with no complications.

Additionally, network storage space has increased to help serve users' ever-growing needs. The computers are safe behind a campus firewall that adds a layer of protection from the Internet. Users also can access more networked computer programs using the Microsoft Application Virtualization servers.

These upgrades are consistent with OIT's strategic goals that include providing a network system that is secured, well-managed, efficient, accessible and reliable.

OIT appreciates and acknowledges technicians Barry Menard, Dustin Feinman, Jennifer Toole, Norm Penalosa, Don Shuck, Gary Mulgrew, Louis Vuletic, Roger Bond, Doug Penwell, Heriberto Rodriguez, Monty Harmes and Tony Moke for their hard work and dedication during the workstation migration.

OIT is implementing the final phase of eGCC, which include the retirement later this semester of the Novell servers. All web content, including syllabi or departmental websites, will be copied from the legacy glory server to the new eGCC web platform. Users who have published materials on the glory web server are encouraged to contact the GCC Helpdesk at 623.845.3555 to migrate their web content to the eGCC web-publishing service.

Additionally, the technology team at the GCC main and North campuses will shift focus toward improving the computing environment using customer-driven feedback. Students, staff and faculty should expect a customer survey during the Fall semester.

Data generated from this evaluation will help OIT to plan strategy and help ensure end users are provided first-rate service and the best technology experience possible. – Josh Krek