About ISC
In Penn's highly decentralized computing environment, the Office of
Information Systems and Computing (ISC) provides leadership, infrastructure,
standards, and services that enable students, faculty, and staff to achieve
excellence, advance Penn's mission, and take full advantage of the University's
technology
assets.
As Penn's central computing organization, ISC focuses on the following areas:
Core Administrative Systems
ISC manages the
Data Warehouse, the University’s
central repository for administrative data, and oversees the
development and maintenance of most of the administrative systems at
Penn. Administrative
systems are those used by all centers and the 12 schools
in support of academic, business/financial, and research administration.
Data, Voice, Video Networks
ISC operates PennNet, the University's data network. PennNet connects virtually
all of the University’s buildings, including student residences, and
provides Internet connectivity to the entire Penn community. ISC also provides
connectivity to Internet2, the higher speed network
for the research community
that allows for advanced applications development. Penn’s voice network
system is also managed by ISC. Telecommunications offers comprehensive voice
services for offices and for students residing both on campus and those living
off campus in University City. ISC operates Penn Video Network (PVN), the
University’s
cable television and special video events network. PVN offers faculty,
students, and staff the opportunity to request movies and
special event broadcasts that support and enhance academic programs.
Services for Local Providers
ISC supplements the computing support services offered by Penn’s schools
by providing second-tier technical support services to distributed support
staff known as Local Support Providers (LSPs). This support ranges from software
and hardware standards to addressing specific issues of interest to IT staff.
Standards
With input from across the University, ISC sets technology direction and develops standards
to help foster communication, collaboration, and cost savings. ISC tracks emerging
technology, helping coordinate campus-wide initiatives and pilot programs.
ISC also provides forums for negotiating IT issues that require consensus by sponsoring cross-campus advisory groups and
user groups.
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