Upgrades for University-Owned Computers Start June 1

Computer RefreshAs the new fiscal year begins on June 1, 2023, approximately 700 computers will become eligible for replacement under the University Technology Fund. During the week of April 10, individuals with an eligible computer will receive an email with instructions for placing their orders. To support the increase in orders that typically accompany the start of the new fiscal year, we will onboard additional temporary staff to ensure we can deploy the computer as quickly as possible this summer.

There are several key dates regarding new orders and financial processing as we close out FY23 and begin the new year. Continue reading Upgrades for University-Owned Computers Start June 1

New Ordering Site for Tech Purchases Coming Soon

shopping cartEach year, several hundred computer orders are processed across campus.  This process involves coordination between the Purchasing department and OIT.  In reviewing the ordering experience as well as the time delays for some orders, we decided to make some major improvements.

Early next month, we will launch a new technology ordering site.  This site will allow you to order computers, tablets, monitors and a few accessories for departmental purchases.  Below are some of the key improvements to the ordering/installation process: Continue reading New Ordering Site for Tech Purchases Coming Soon

InstructureCon Reveals Upcoming Features in Canvas

Instructurecon LogoLast month, instructional designers from around the world descended on Keystone, Colorado for the annual InstructureCon. This convention is hosted by Instructure, the makers of the Canvas LMS, to announce upcoming features as well as allow educators to discuss innovative ways of using Canvas. SMU’s own Canvas administrators paid a visit to the Rockies to find out more about what Canvas has up their sleeve, and they weren’t disappointed! Continue reading InstructureCon Reveals Upcoming Features in Canvas

Winter Break Brings New Classroom Upgrades to Campus

During the winter break, our Classroom Support team was hard at work to make sure classrooms in need of technology upgrades were ready for the new semester. As semesters go by, heavily used equipment becomes less reliable and older technology requires replacement to keep classrooms functional.

Almost forty classrooms received upgrades over the break with improvements including new projectors, enhanced functionality, revamped control systems and more. Here are a few examples of the work that’s been completed across campus:

  • Annette Simmons:  New projectors in 138, 144 and 218.  New lamps in 221 and 213.
  • Dedman Life Science: New projectors in 110, 127, 128, 129, 130 and 131.
  • Clements Hall: New projectors and control systems in G16, G18, 120, 126, 225, 324, 325, 326 and 334.  New computers installed in 225, G18, 326 and 334.
  • Dallas Hall: New control systems in 120, 137 and 138.
  • Umphrey Lee: New power control in 233.
  • Owens Arts Center: New power control in B150 and 2020.
  • Hyer Hall: TV/wall monitor installed in G21.

These repairs and improvements are just a small portion of the larger mission to update all classrooms on campus for a more consistent experience for faculty and students. As always, if you have any questions regarding the operation of classroom equipment, feel free to contact the IT Help Desk at 214-768-4357. If there is an immediate technical problem with the classroom, a support representative will be dispatched to your location and should arrive within five minutes.