Time for something new
We’re coming towards the end of the academic year, but IT Services is continuing to roll out new technology to make sure everyone at the University has the best digital experience possible, while keeping all of us safe and secure.
There have been so many new things available recently, you might have missed something that could help you with your day-to-day work, so we wanted to update you on everything that’s now available as well as the upgrades we’re making to ensure what we already had is working at its very best.
What’s new from IT Services?
- Upgrade to Office 365
IT Services has undertaken a University wide rollout of Microsoft Office 365, replacing any earlier versions. Thank you to all staff members who have upgraded their machines in the last few months. Upgrading to the latest version of Office provides more security for your and the University’s data and allows IT Services to introduce new features such as sensitivity labelling and seamless collaboration through the eradication of compatibility issues. - Launch of Network Access Control (NAC)
The implementation of Cisco's Network Access Control (NAC) is part of our ongoing security enhancements which will strengthen our network infrastructure. The NAC ensures that only devices which meet the University's security requirements can access the network; those that do not may be given restricted access. NAC is being rolled out University wide in phases and you will receive a direct notification when it is coming to your area. - Cyber security training available now
Training materials to raise awareness of phishing and other cyber security threats, and help you deal with them appropriately, is now available. More training will continue to be released regularly. - Upgrade to Output Evaluation Programme system
The Output Evaluation Programme (OEP) functionality in TULIP and Liverpool Elements has now been upgraded to align with the new Code of Practice for the Evaluation and Selection of Research Outputs for REF 2029, and to provide new features and tools for better administration and easier use of the exercise in TULIP. - Update to Business Objects now available
IT Services has recently updated the institutional reporting tool, SAP Business Objects, to the latest version which includes improved navigation and new features allowing you to set favourite folders and start a new report from within an existing one. - Upgrades to services
Upgrade works are bieng carried out on our telecommunications service until 19 May 2024 and on our servers on 12 June 2024 from 6am to 12 noon. Please note that while this work is being undertaken, there is a risk that systems and applications will become unavailable. The team is committed to carrying out all high risk work out of hours.
What do I need to do?
- For those of you who haven't yet upgraded to Office 365, you should now receive a pop-up prompt at least once a day. If you do receive this message, please upgrade your machine as soon as possible.
- If you are using a non-managed device, please ensure that you have up to date antimalware installed in preparation for the launch of NAC in your area.
- Check out the training materials now available to enhance your digital security knowledge. Working together we can raise awareness of the responsibility everyone has to be aware of phishing and stay vigilant when working with email and other communication tools.
- If you use the Output Evaluation Programme (OEP) functionality in TULIP and/or Liverpool Elements, check out the guidance available for nominating, reviewing and moderating outputs. More information about the OEP and the new Code of Practice can be viewed here and if you have any questions, you can speak with your local Output Evaluation Programme contact.
- Request access to Business Objects if you need to run and/or create reports using the system. Free training is available to support you.
IT Services is always happy to help you ensure you are using all of our technology to its full potential, so if you have any questions at all, please get in touch with the IT Service Desk.
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