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Division of Information Technology
P.O. Box 6888
Radford, VA 24142
Phone: (540) 831-5173
Fax: (540) 831-6217
Email: cio@radford.edu

Division of Information Technology
Radford University

DoIT launches new MyRU portal

The Division of Information Technology (DoIT) launched the first phase of a new MyRU portal on Sept. 16. The completely reimagined portal provides users with streamlined access to business functions within a fresh new interface. To check out the new portal, visit http://myru.radford.edu and find a link that allows you to log into the new portal. Most functionality will be in place and you can complete tasks within the new portal without having to log into the old portal. Some of the significant changes include:

• Elimination of "content channels." The new, streamlined portal houses functions that require you to login to get access to information or to complete business functions. "Content only" channels have been eliminated; you should visit departmental websites to find information about hours, upcoming events and forms that do not require authentication.
• A clean, easy-to-use interface. The new interface was designed to make it easy to navigate the portal. "Tabs" have been consolidated into pages that can be accessed by clicking on the page's icon on the "Welcome" screen. The icons will make it easier to use the portal on a mobile device (full mobile optimization of the portal is expected in a future phase of the project).
• Consolidated Quick Links. On the old portal, you had to navigate to various "tabs" to find specific Quick Links. In the new portal, look for the "Quick Links" option in the top navigation. You'll find a drop down menu that takes you to a page with Quick Links sorted by category. Think something is missing? Let us know at webcomm@radford.edu.
• Enhancements for students. Students will be able to see all their financial information on the "Finances" page and update their contact information, their RU Alerts profile and their emergency contact information from a single portlet.
• Enhancements for faculty. Faculty will find enhanced portlets on the Teaching page. These portlets let you see your schedule at a glance. You will also find a portlet that allows you to view a class roster or email your class – all from a single screen.
• Enhancements for employees. Employees will find portlets that allow them to submit a timecard or approve a timecard – all from the same page.

It's important for us to note that, although it is beta, if you update your contact information, pay a bill or perform any other function in the new portal, the updates will be permanent in Banner. We anticipate phasing out the current MyRU portal later this fall.

We are seeking your feedback on this "beta" version. After you log into the new portal, you'll find a link to our feedback form in the Quick Links. If you have any questions, please email webcomm@radford.edu.

RU celebrates National Cyber Security Awareness Month

The month of October will be the 10th anniversary of the National Cyber Security Awareness Month (NCSAM). NCSAM is a time to increase awareness of online safety and security issues, and to help educate users about the best ways to protect their computers and other electronic devices. This year's theme: "Stop. Think. Connect," encourages Internet users to learn about possible risks inherent in their online activities, and to make informed decisions that can help protect them against online threats and dangers. This month, table cards featuring IT security tips will be placed in the RU dining facilities, security tips will be posted to RU's Facebook page and Twitter feed, and security videos will be made available.

Visit www.radford.edu/it-security for more about information security, including several video clips about protecting electronic devices, online credentials and online identity.

Technology tips from the Help Desk

The Technology Assistance Center, also known as the Help Desk, provides phone, walk-in and on-site assistance to coordinate the resolution to any technology-related issue. Here are a few tips to enhance your technology support experience:

• When working with a technician, be sure to write down the incident request number to simplify any follow-up and refer to this if you need to contact the Technology Assistance Center again.
• The online request form https://tac.asp.radford.edu can be used to report a problem. Please be as detailed as possible in providing the specifics of your problem.
• Walk-in traffic (Heth Hall 157) is typically highest between classes and during lunch.
• Desire 2 Learn (D2L) support is available to faculty and students 24x7 by calling the RU Help Desk at (540) 831-7500 and selecting option 3.
   

User account recertification of sensitive systems slated for October

The Radford University Information Technology Security Standard requires that user accounts of the university's sensitive systems be recertified annually.

As in previous years, DoIT will be using an online process for recertification. All users of Banner INB, Cognos, CS Gold (RU Express) and HMS (Housing) must complete this process to maintain access.

Users of these systems will receive an email from DoIT with instructions on how to complete the recertification process.

Meet the DoIT Staff

Lida Mitchell
Technology Assistance Center Technology Specialist I

How long have you been employed in the Division of Information Technology at Radford University? 1 year as of Aug. 10, 2013.

Family: Husband Robert Mitchell; 2 daughters, Taarna and Sarah Scaccia; and one son, Josh Mitchell. We are a blended family!

Hometown: Blacksburg, Va.

Education: Associates in computer engineering from Wytheville Community College 1998; 15 years in the industry.

Interests/Hobbies: Rock concerts, movies, sci-fi and mystery fiction and history.

Favorite vacation destination: Anywhere to visit my kids.

Favorite part of your job: Solving problems and helping people.