Dive Brief:
- WIth its third wireless network transition in 10 years, Oakland University is moving to accommodate the number of active devices on campus while preparing for increases in other technology with network access.
- Campus security, fitness tech and other technology in the Internet of Things demands new capacity for network performance, access points and allowances for how construction may impact service.
- Finding network management professionals has proven difficult for the campus, requiring the school to engage with computer science students to maintain service provision.
Dive Insight:
Network technology is sure to continue evolving at a fast pace, but the slow process of state procurement rules may leave public colleges and universities perpetually behind in implementing cutting edge technology. Research and consultation are the best ways to stay abreast of changing trends, and making the case to campus communities and legislative appropriation committees for continuous upgrades.
How costly can these upgrades be? When accounting for changing standards in on-campus security systems, varying devices and network security requirements, and changes in distance learning, campus leaders may consider the long-term budget implications for keeping pace with the tech industry.