Since 2013, WashU has undergone a significant transformation in its IT infrastructure. What started as a fragmented and varied system has evolved into a centralized, standardized, and efficient network. Let’s take a closer look at this journey and the continuous improvements that shape our IT landscape today.
2013: Dispersed IT Systems
Back in 2013, the IT landscape was marked by fragmentation and inconsistency:
- Separate IT Departments: Danforth and the School of Medicine operated with their own dispersed IT departments.
- Lack of Standardization: There was no uniformity in the manufacturers of IT equipment, leading to varied configurations between departments.
- Configuration Variability: Each school and department had its unique IT setup, making it difficult to manage and maintain consistency across the university.
Centralization: A Unified Approach
Recognizing the need for a cohesive strategy, the university moved towards a centralized IT model. This transformation brought numerous benefits:
- Standardization: IT systems and equipment were standardized across all departments, simplifying maintenance and support.
- Efficiency: Centralized IT management streamlined operations, reducing redundancy and improving service delivery.
Achievements: Building a Robust IT Framework
The formation of a centralized IT department set the stage for several key advancements:
- Manufacturer Standardization: Aligning with specific manufacturers ensured compatibility and reliability across the network.
- Increased Connectivity: Enhanced Internet2 connectivity doubled the network’s capacity, providing faster and more reliable internet access.
- Network Refresh: The implementation of a Voice Over IP (VoIP) project modernized communication infrastructure.
- Research Network Development (WURN): A dedicated research network was developed to support the unique needs of academic research.
- WiFi Expansion: Expanding wireless coverage ensured seamless connectivity across the entire campus.
- Next-Generation Firewall: Upgraded security measures were introduced to protect against emerging threats.
- Expanded Operational Capacity: Increased operational capacity supported growing demand and facilitated future expansion.
Today: Addressing Current Needs
As we continue to evolve, our focus is on addressing the current and future needs of the university:
- More Network Manageability: Simplifying network management to ensure efficient operation and quick response to issues.
- More Bandwidth: Expanding bandwidth to support the increasing data demands of students, faculty, and researchers.
- More Security: Enhancing security measures to protect sensitive data and ensure compliance with regulatory requirements.
The journey from a dispersed IT infrastructure to a centralized, standardized, and efficient network has been transformative for our university. As we look to the future, we remain committed to meeting the evolving needs of our community, ensuring that our IT systems continue to support excellence in education, research, and administration.
Stay tuned for more updates as we continue to enhance and expand our IT capabilities to better serve you.