Blogs

The University of Guelph IT Security Policy Framework was formally approved by the President in late December 2009. This framework is the cornerstone of an intensive program to signficantly enhance our IT security posture.

Under the direction of Doug Badger, Director of the IT Portfolio Management Office, Guelph has begun a process to create policy, procedures, and best practices that will respond to the increasing IT security challenges faced by all organizations.

The Framework articulates guiding principles and key roles. It also provides a format for the inclusion of specific policies and guidelines as they are developed or formalized.

...Mike

The Canadian Research Knowledge Network (CRKN) is marking its 10th anniversary in 2010. As it moves towards its teenage years, CRKN continues to be a critical member of the academic family in Canada.

CRKNEstablished through the leadership of CARL, the core funding of CFI, and the investments of many participating universities across the country, CRKN is a model of collaboration and innovation.

Currently 72 universities in Canada are members of CRKN. Through the consortial purchasing programs of CRKN, these members take advantage of model licensing contracts and expert staff to achieve advantageous agreements that enhance information access and reduce costs. Annual expenditures are approaching $100M -  98% of which is spent on content.

During its 10 years CRKN has received two CFI awards; the most recent was for the Digital Content Infrastructure (DCI) project; providing digital scholarly resources for the humanities and social sciences. This was the single biggest investment in this academic area ever by a federal funding agency.

The enduring value and importance of CRKN can be seen in the most recent round of contract renewals - content licensed previously that is being extended for another contract term. The high rate of participation by member institutions illustrates the value derived from the CRKN approach to acquisition. This is especially crucial during these times of intense financial constraint.

Recently Deb deBruijn, the Executive Director, posted a message highlighting the anniversary and outlining the issues, challenges and opportunities ahead for CRKN and its members. The next decade will see CRKN sustaining its position as well as breaking new ground.

...Mike

Recently CCS unveiled its new logo. Logos are important tools in conveying the essence and direction of an organization. The new logo projects ideas of discovery, partnership, and support.

The accompanying phrase, "Opening Doors Through Technology", underscores the focus on innovation.

Logos are a promise; they are shorthand for the experience that is offered or expected. With the new logo CCS continues on its path to confirm and to redefine itself as an engaged partner in the academic enterprise.

Kudos to Lisbeth Sider for the design and the CCS team for the vision behind it.

…Mike