JOG Report, May 2001

This is the May 2001 UCSD report to the UC-wide Joint Operations Group (JOG) and to the Communications Planning Group (CPG). The following paragraphs summarize key computing and communications issues for the past four months. For more information please refer to the Blink Technology pages.

Computing

  • Blink: The first release of Blink, UCSD's staff web resource, was released for production use in March 2001. Blink currently features full content for the "People" and "Technology" topics and work continues on developing additional content (e.g., Finance, Travel). Customer feedback has been enthusiastic and many campus employees already use the system.
  • Storehouse online: A storehouse e-procurement system was implemented recently. The system uses the Blink look & feel and allows customers to browse catalogs, purchase thousands of items, and personalize the experience using an online shopping cart.
  • Data Warehouse query tool: A new Java/XML data query tool was implemented. The facility allows users to retrieve data from the Data Warehouse by selecting the fields desired and in some cases entering values as a parameter. It is point and click system, thereby eliminating the need to know a programming language such as SQL (Structured Query Language).
  • Cost-transfer transactons: ENPET (Electronic Non-Payroll Expense Transfer) is a new system designed to improve accuracy and efficiency in cost-transfer transactions. The system features easy selection of transactions to transfer via FinancialLink, automatic creation of financial transactions, streamlined approval process for low-risk transactions, e-mail notifications instead of paper forms and signatures, less paper documentation, and an automated audit program.
  • Sharecase: Over 1,500 people attended Sharecase 2001 on March 28, 2001, with over 90 presentations and a large exhibit hall.
  • DB2 Conversion: Significant milestones were achieved in the conversion of our core financial and student systems (IFIS and ISIS) from IDMS database to DB2/CICS. The financial aid system was successfully converted, a stress test of the IFIS system was conducted, and we now in possession of almost all converted programs. The project started in February 2000 and is scheduled to be completed by December 2001.
  • Coeus: The Office of Contracts & Grants Administration now uses the COEUS system in parallel production, with expanded usage scheduled for July 1, 2001.
  • OS/390: OS/390 Release 10 was implemented in production.

Communications

  • Funding model: The new UCSD communications funding model was officially announced and will take effect on July 1, 2001. The model is focused on a single communication user fee for both voice and data services and was endorsed by the UC external auditors (PWC).
  • Wireless: The UCSD wireless network continues to expand and access is now available in numerous areas, including classrooms, dining facilities, student meeting places, Faculty Club, large computer lab areas, and several key buildings.
  • HDR Technology: The beta test of Qualcomm's HDR technology has begun and is very successful. HDR is a high speed, high capacity wireless technology providing transmission speeds up to 2.4 Mbps. Qualcomm provided us with several portable HDR modems (WASP) which are being used by selected faculty, staff, and students.
  • New router: Gigabit Ethernet is being implemented in some locations. The new Juniper router now manages all of UCSD's connections to the outside world.
  • CENIC ISP: We are planning to fully switch to the CENIC ISP service and expand our Internet bandwidth through CENIC considerably. We will find a local ISP to provide backup services and improve our connectivity with local customers.
  • Directory: The Active Directory project has moved into a test phase with an expected production facility available this summer.