by Randy Hollowell, IT Services

IT Services is making final preparations for the start of the 2017-18 school year, and the barrage of students and faculty that will invade Oxford in August. This year, the class of 2021 moves into the Oxford residence halls on Thursday, August 24. As we countdown the days to this annual event, let’s take a look at some of the ways IT Services will help support the technology needs of our campus community.

Information Tents

One support tactic IT Services employs is the use of several tents strategically located throughout campus. These tents are occupied by IT Services staff ready to answer all kinds of technology-related questions, as well as help students get connected to Miami online services, including MU-WIRELESS, Microsoft Office, AppPortal, and Philo. We also answer important non-techie questions, like where is the nearest dining hall, and how do I get to the One Stop office. This year we are planning on having two tents staffed with IT Services personnel beginning on move-in day, and continuing on weekdays through Monday, August 28. Tents will be staffed between 10:00 am and 3:00 pm.

Hang Tags

To make sure on-campus students have technology information at their fingertips, IT Services delivers hang tags to each residence hall room. These pocketed hangers include three cards that provide information about:

• The TV channel lineup
• Technology services available on campus
• How to get technology support
• Gaining network access

MiamiOH.edu/KnowIT

IT Services also provides our usual support services, including a revamped and enhanced knowledge base of self-support materials. Support can be accessed via:

• Self-help through the IT Services knowledge base (MiamiOH.edu/KnowIT)
• Phone support (513 529-7900)
• Email support (ITHelp@MiamiOH.edu)
• Chat (MiamiOH.edu/IT and click Get Help)
• Hang tags (available in each residence hall room)
• Social media blitz to include tips and tricks via Twitter (@MiamiUIT)
• Digital signage in residence and dining halls, Armstrong Center, Rec center, etc. to display important tech information