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Smart campus technology and app support easier wayfinding at UWindsor
Oct 28th, 2021
CampusGo displayed on smartphone

Navigating the University of Windsor campus is now as simple as following turn-by-turn directions.

The University has launched “CampusGo,” an all-new app that offers accurate and convenient wayfinding of the UWindsor campus.

Users can quickly search and find campus buildings, services, and selected classrooms across campus through the easy-to-use app. CampusGo’s intuitive interface also labels designated entrances, exits, and the location of QR scanners in each building as part of the University’s Return to Campus health and safety protocols.

CampusGo was created by Mapsted, the world's leading indoor positioning system developers. Indoor navigation is precise to within three metres and requires no WIFI or GPS positioning beacons.

The app can be downloaded via the Google Play (Android) or App Store (iOS) marketplaces. The wayfinding technology and interactive campus maps are also available through any mobile or desktop web browser.

“Finding a classroom in a growing institution with over 40 buildings can sometimes be a challenge,” says Jennie Atkins, who along with Emmeline Ventimiglia led the project to bring wayfinding technology to the UWindsor campus with support and implementation from Facility Services and Information Technology teams. “With CampusGo, you can quickly select your desired destination and it will provide turn-by-turn directions right to the appropriate door.”

According to associate vice-president operations Anna Kirby, “This is incredibly helpful given our revised access to buildings and COVID-19 safety protocols. CampusGo will make for a better on-campus experience for anyone who uses it.”

Campus accessibility is also promoted through CampusGo. Accessible entrances and parking are listed, along with general safety and convenience items such as the location of campus emergency call stations and visitor parking.

“We are very excited to be working with the University of Windsor to implement our Location Positioning Technology,” says Mapsted co-founder and chief operating officer Saeedeh Hamidifar. “Leveraging our patented machine learning and data fusion algorithms will elevate UWindsor’s experience for students and visitors by enabling effortless campus navigation.”

The app is an ideal companion to the Safe Lancer App that is required for QR scanning to enter campus buildings.

Submit course schedules for Winter 2022 in advance of UWinsite Student update
Oct 27th, 2021
UWinsite Student screen

In preparation for the UWinsite Student update scheduled for Nov. 18 to 22, the Office of the Registrar has been working with faculties on course timetables for the Winter 2022 semester. Faculties are asked to return the course timetables by Oct. 29 to ensure the administrative work is completed before the UWinsite Student update is implemented.

“We thank our academic partners for working to complete the course proofs on time,” says Lorraine Chandler, acting registrar. “A prompt response will help us finalize the schedules in advance of the system update and in time for registration.”

The system update will affect UWinsite Student access during the implementation weekend for staff, professors, and students alike. It is important to plan to make requests and obtain documents — like transcripts — before the system is unavailable. For employees, it also means adjusting daily tasks, as the UWinsite Student system will be offline.

Direct questions related to the UWinsite Student update project to UWinsite@uwindsor.ca. If anyone is experiencing an issue with a UWinsite Student, open a ticket and it will be routed to the right area for help.

Security experts urge cyber-caution
Oct 26th, 2021
man looking proud at his ability to protect his computer data

Increasing dependence on digital devices and the internet to perform daily tasks like work, banking, shopping, and pandemic social contact, makes cybersecurity ever more important, and taking measures to protect personal and work data on a regular basis decreases that vulnerability.

“People are really our best line of defence when it comes to preventing cyber-attacks. Being a human firewall will safeguard you and the University community,” says Kevin Macnaughton, team lead security in Information Technology Services. “If individuals keep vigilant, it bolsters the technical measures our security team employs.”

This past month’s campaign is focused on cybersecurity best practices around:

  • Working from home and campus
  • Spotting phishing attempts
  • Caring for your computer
  • Securing mobile devices

Test your instincts to review the content shared throughout the month.

Cybersecurity awareness continues well beyond the month of October. Visit web pages dedicated to the subject.

To highlight the global cybersecurity efforts, have a look at the United States’ campaign page and the topics they covered each week.

Led by IT Services, Cybersecurity Awareness Month efforts highlight cybersecurity issues relevant to the UWindsor community. More information is available at uwindsor.ca/cybersecurity.

Tips intended to protect your smart devices
Oct 22nd, 2021
man working on smart phone

Over 88 per cent of Canadians access the internet with a mobile device, according to Statista, a leading market and consumer data provider. With the ever-increasing dependence on portable devices to do tasks such as online banking or accessing work files, valuable information is being put at risk of cybersecurity threats.

“Smart cybersecurity practices are just as important for your phone and tablet as they are for your computer,” says Kevin Macnaughton, team leader security in Information Technology Services. “While it may only be for personal or recreational use, it should still be protected.”

IT Services’ list of top five ways to protect your mobile devices includes:

  1. Enable the security Personal Identification Number (PIN) to unlock your phone and keep it private.
  2. Set the device to auto-lock when inactive.
  3. Allow automatic updates for the operating system and apps.
  4. Only use the App Store and iTunes or Google Play for apps, games, and media.
  5. Use the University’s GlobalProtect VPN when accessing public or free Wi-Fi.

For more mobile device security best practices, see the webpage.

To highlight the global cybersecurity efforts, have a look at the European Cybersecurity Month campaign.

Led by IT Services, Cybersecurity Awareness Month efforts highlight cybersecurity issues relevant to the UWindsor community. More information can be found at uwindsor.ca/cybersecurity.

Systems programmer remembered for key role in campus computing
Oct 21st, 2021

Friends and colleagues of Dean Roy, a UWindsor employee of more than 35 years who died Oct. 17 at the age of 58, remember him for his contributions to campus operations in his paid and volunteer work.

He joined the University’s staff in 1986 as a programmer in the University Computer Centre, receiving promotions in 1989 to systems programmer, in 1996 to senior systems programmer, and in 2003 to systems programmer specialist in Information Technology Services.

“Dean played a key role in setting up and maintaining computer systems that powered many of the enterprise applications and databases on campus, including the student information systems, payroll, and finance,” says Stephen Karamatos, manager of technology and innovation. “He was a diligent staff member and contributed his talents and rich experience during the waves of technological changes. He will sadly be missed by his colleagues.”

Roy was also active in Local 1393 of the Canadian Union of Public Employees, including serving as its president from 2011 to 2017.

Campus flags will be lowered in his memory on Friday, Oct. 22. His family has set up a scholarship fund and welcome memorial donations; click here to make a gift online.

Funeral services are planned for Saturday, Oct. 23. Find details in his obituary online.