Friendly but streamlined: implementing an integrated university computing environment

ABSTRACT

In August 1986 Indiana University released the prototype of an easy-to-use electronic information service delivery mechanism: the Academic Information Environment (AIE). IU developed the AIE to serve as a scholars' network, providing high-speed, transparent connectivity between IU scholars' workstations and computing and information resources. These resources include, for example, local centralized or departmental computing resources, supercomputers at remote locations, international networks, and local and distant information sources. From the beginning, a goal was to make the AIE friendly enough for computing novices, yet streamlined enough that experienced users would not find it cumbersome. Initially designed for faculty, the AIE now serves staff and students, and is available statewide through the IU Computing Network. This paper follows the history and development of the AIE from its prototype through current plans and projects for migrating from central resources to a distributed workstation environment. Issues discussed include development strategies, implementation phases, management and support, standards, stumbling blocks, ongoing modifications, and adaptations due to the ever-changing state of technology coupled with campus organization and need.

INDEX TERMS

Primary Classification:
  H. Information Systems
  H.3 INFORMATION STORAGE AND RETRIEVAL
      H.3.4 Systems and Software
          Subjects: Information networks

Additional Classification:
  C. Computer Systems Organization
  C.2 COMPUTER-COMMUNICATION NETWORKS

  H. Information Systems
  H.1 MODELS AND PRINCIPLES

  K. Computing Milieux
  K.3 COMPUTERS AND EDUCATION

General Terms:
Design, Human Factors, Standardization