Many students at some point have had to brave rain, snow, and long lines to access campus computers equipped with Minitab, SPSS, and other vital software needed for their studies. Now, that’s a thing of the past.
New technology available through the University Libraries allows anyone with a UConn NetID to access a virtual computer desktop equipped with licensed software without having to purchase, download, or install the programs on their computer.
The technology, known as virtual PC (vPC), can be accessed via the Internet with a UConn NetID from any computer – whether a Mac or a PC – or mobile device anywhere in the world.
The initiative was spearheaded by the Schools of Business and Engineering, which have specialized technology needs. But with increased demand for licensed software, especially statistical and mathematical programs, from a variety of schools and colleges, in late August the vPC platform was made accessible to students, faculty, and staff in any field.
The vPC technology was popular from the beginning, as students began using it during Tropical Storm Irene and late at night when on-campus computer labs are closed.
Meeting the demand
Traditionally the student population has had limited access to expensive and often specialized licensed software. The shortage often led to long lines at computer labs on campus, especially at peak times in the semester.
“I would receive comments from students during finals week saying ‘there are not enough computers equipped with the programs we need,’” says Tony Molloy, director of IT for University Libraries. “We could not justify the space and cost of expanding the computer labs for use at peak times only. Virtual computing solves that problem.”
The programs now available through vPC include Microsoft Office Suite, Minitab, SPSS, and a wide variety of other programs that can be easily accessed by Mac and PC users alike. Apple products have proved extremely popular among students; programs that were previously limited to PC users are now available to Macbooks and iPads as well.
Although other universities have implemented similar technology, UConn has placed special emphasis on making access to a virtual desktop environment easy for students. Students simply use their NetID and password to access the vPC network.
“Simplifying the log-on process was one of our main objectives,” says Jeremy Pollack, director of IT at the School of Business. “We wanted to make the vPC user experience as simple as possible.”
“Another benefit,” says Jean Nelson, marketing and communications team leader for University Libraries, “is that the vPC program will free up a lot of space in the library that would otherwise have to be computer labs. This way, students can make better use of the limited space we have on campus.”
The vPC is also expected to save money. “In the School of Business alone, we are looking at a $320,000 savings over five years in our computer labs,” says Pollack. “The UConn vPC has the potential to reduce the costs of a traditional desktop computer up to 40 percent.”
Looking ahead
Although the vPC system was only recently launched University-wide, the IT team is already looking to make improvements. In particular, they are looking for ways to allow students to personalize vPC desktops depending on the classes they are enrolled in and the programs they need.
“We are looking forward to new uses of the vPC system,” says Pollack, “we provided a link for feedback from vPC users so we can constantly improve. We are also sharing what we learn so others can benefit.”
To connect to the UConn vPC and follow the project status via the vPC blog, visit the UConn vPC website.
