University Systems News for January 2018

Accomplishments

On January 26, Systems Senior Leadership and Research Computing Services (RCS) staff attended a Research Data Strategy Symposium hosted by the VP Research, David Castle. The gathering was an opportunity for faculty, administration and support staff to openly discuss the university’s strengths, opportunities and challenges regarding management of research data. Wency made a brief presentation on the role IT and University Systems plays, emphasizing the growing importance of cybersecurity.

The Parklane Workplace Management System (PC0683) went live in early January, which will provide Human Resources with the ability to submit WorkSafe claims electronically.

The PMO has released new and updated templates for Project Managers and teams. These templates were created in collaboration with Project Managers, Information Security Staff, and CHD and DSS staff:

Around Campus

February 1-7 is Alumni week, with several events on campus for the community including lunch and learns, the Distinguished Alumni Awards, and other celebrations of the accomplishments of our alumni. Nav Bassi’s contributions to UVic are featured on the UVic Alumni Twitter feed to kick off the events!

We recorded the Multifaith Memorandum of Understanding Ceremony for Ceremonies. The event was to renew the agreement between the University of Victoria  and the Religious Communities currently participating in the Multifaith Chaplaincy. The recording was for the UVic archives.

Security vulnerabilities called Meltdown and Spectre have been identified that affect Mac and Windows workstations, mobile devices, and servers. Systems staff have been working on mitigation strategies for these vulnerabilities and communicating best practices to the campus community. More information about our recommendations can be found on the University Systems website.

Service Excellence

Nav Bassi provided an encore presentation of his Cybersecurity Lunch and Learn as part of the VPFO Service Excellence initiative on January 9. Nav provided plenty of tips for how you can protect yourself and your data at work and at home.

Our InsideIT blog received a face lift in January. Check out the new look and photos!

Out with the old, in with the new! Our Clearihue C-wing hallway saw a fresh coat of paint in January. The new colours are Bosphorus Blue, Graphite Grey, and Silver Plume.

Larry, Andreas, and Laura from Facilities Management – Photo Credit: Vincent Connor

The Service Excellence Committee has updated the VPFO website to include photos from recent events, including our Meet the Team event in December. Check it out!