Georgia Enterprise Technology Services (GETS) update, Vol. 2, Issue 12 (June 11, 2010)

Georgia Enterprise Technology Services (GETS) Update
Volume 2, Issue No. 12

June 11, 2010

In This Issue
Enhancements make Service Catalog easier to use
Notifications to be sent by popup messages
Briefly...

Currency program reducing risk in our legacy environment
In our last newsletter, I mentioned that we have begun a "currency" program that will address chronic infrastructure problems prior to transformation. Our goal is to reduce risk and ensure that service delivery meets expected standards.
The currency program is running in parallel with our IT transformation. We will replace at-risk servers that are either not addressed by transformation projects or require action sooner. Assessments are determining which servers are at risk. In addition to servers that are simply old and outdated, we are looking for those that:

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GETS Activities

q cannot be backed up, patched or monitored q are running at capacity q go down frequently q send high volumes of alerts to technicians q depend on PC-level devices
Servers in several agencies have already been replaced, and dozens more are in process. IBM has added more architects and project managers to help accelerate our efforts. In addition, IBM is pre-ordering standard-sized hardware to keep on hand, decreasing wait times. We also have expanded the next phases of the program to include an estimated total of 160 servers by the end of 2010.

June/July
Internet migration
Active Directory migration
Preparations for e-mail migration and consolidation
Application remediation

As we work to identify at-risk servers, we are also finding and correcting other issues. These include servers that aren't being used and gaps in architecture and security. The steps we are taking will serve to stabilize our legacy infrastructure as we continue toward transformation.
Thank you for your ongoing support.
Patrick Moore State Chief Information Officer GTA Executive Director

Preparations for server and storage consolidation
IT asset refresh
Disaster recovery planning

Enhancements make Service Catalog easier to use
We are continuing to make updates and usability enhancements to improve the Service Catalog (OrderNow!). Here is a quick summary of recent changes:
q Updated specifications and quotes for standard catalog items q Added low-cost computing accessories, including keyboards and
speakers q Added a catalog item for Domain Name Systems (DNS) requests q Added a catalog item for single sign-on VPN to the "System of
Application Access" category q Added new models of Lenovo laptop and tablet computers q Enabled agencies with expiring funds to purchase EUC equipment that
would have been purchased through the Request For Solution (RFS) process q Updated the description for a voice mailbox addition q Simplified forms for requesting voice ports q Simplified the RFS Catalog Request Form and GETS Requirement Checklist by removing redundant questions q Removed the Office Move category q Removed the ability to delete bundled items from standard configurations
More improvements coming this month
More improvements are coming this month, including a simplified welcome screen, fewer fields in the checkout process and a simplified RFS Service Information Form.
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Notifications to be sent by pop-up messages

End users will soon see pop-up messages delivered directly to their PC screens by Dell Desktop Manager (DDM). In conjunction with GTA, IBM is using this method to quickly deliver customized messages or instructions.
DDM allows automatic updates, such as security patches and software updates, that are needed to keep PCs in good operating order. It also notifies computer users by pop-up messages about issues affecting their computers or requiring their attention.
End users will receive messages only when there is relevant information or when specific action is needed. For example, pop-up messages may notify users about unauthorized software installed on their computers or alert them when their computers will receive a special release of software to fix a known technical issue.
If you have questions about DDM or pop-up messages, please contact your GTA Service Delivery Consultant.
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Briefly...
When the University of Georgia hosted a PGA golf tournament this spring, AT&T provided all of the telecommunications services necessary to make it happen, including nine voice lines and three DSL lines. UGA was pleased with AT&T's work, as a representative noted in a message to the AT&T project manager: "Thanks for your outstanding assistance and involvement with this very high profile and important tournament... I know that you have spent many hours coordinating the various installations associated with the Athens Classic at UGA Nationwide Golf Tournament, and you have done an outstanding job."
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We welcome your comments about service delivery, the state's IT transformation and related topics. You can submit comments online or call our toll-free number to leave a recorded message.
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