Projects

A description of the larger projects we’re involved in along with their status follows:

Blackboard Upgrade - We are currently reviewing the requirements for upgrading to version 8.  If possible, the upgrade will occur over the next several months to include faculty evaluation of the product in a test environment during the spring.  Training classes will be developed and offered by the CTL during the summer session.  We are currently using version 6.3 so our hardware is in need of replacement, our ability to upgrade will be largely dependent on the replacement of the applications servers.

Content Management System- RedDot was selected and purchased for the purpose of converting the college web site to meet compliance with existing accessibility standards.  We have decided to use the product on the intranet site (a much smaller project) to become more familiar with the product and its capabilities, and will move on to the public internet site afterwards.

Web Analytics - the former analytics program relied on manually copying server logs and indexing the data for display in the form of statistics and graphs.  The new application reads and processes web visitor activity real time and provides actionable data to content owners.  We are currently working with Marketing and Creative Services on implementing its use.

Searchable Knowledgebase- Dr. Nancy Bentley has created a team to investigate the steps required to put a searchable knowledgebase (kb) on the college web site.  The kb will need to be able to understand regular language questions as well as enhance the students user experience on our web site.

Online Orientation- the committee (chaired by Dr. Jo Ann Jenkins) is research differing ways to present student orientation in a completely online environment.  Our ability to offer a degreed program fully online will depend in part on the inclusion of an online version of the orientation program for our students.