Example 1: Long-term, archival file storage

Video coverage of Commencement Weekend always results in very large video files, and storage is needed to keep these files safely, securely, and for long time.

Traditional: Buy hardware (USB drives, storage devices, etc.)

  • PRO – storage hardware relatively cheap, one-time cost
  • PRO – familiar approach to solving problem
  • CON – must purchase storage capacity larger than current need, “just in case,” and for future growth
  • CON – may take time to actually purchase and acquire hardware
  • CON – once capacity is reached, then additional hardware needed, which magnifies the following CONS
  • CON – initial installation and setup, possibly technically difficult and time consuming
  • CON – continuous/ongoing technical effort needed for operations, maintenance, physical security, and offsite duplication, etc.

New/Alternative Approach: Use Cloud Service

  • PRO – storage is charged by exactly how much is actually used, can grow any amount at any time
  • PRO – minimal initial setup and config, can be assisted by ITS
  • PRO – capacity/storage can be acquired virtually instantaneously
  • PRO – operations, maintenance, security, duplication, etc. all handled by cloud vendor (AWS)
  • CON – unfamiliar way to solve problem (minimally complex, cloud vendor handles most technical issues, ITS can assist)
  • CON – recurring cost (like tradeoff between DIY and using a service)

Example 2: Virtual, specialized computer labs for classes

Some classes teach and require students to use specialized software, such as ArcGIS.

Traditional solutions:

  • Students install software on own computers. The variety of computer systems (Windows/Mac/Linux) and personal settings make this difficult to support for an instructor.
  • Make use of University computer lab, instruct students to use the computer lab facility. Potential problems with this option include general computer lab availability (hours), accessibility (COVID considerations, computer lab machine capabilities, and number of lab computers available. Significant hardware, support, and maintenance costs are placed on ITS (or the entity owning the computer lab).

Cloud solution:

  • Easily provision a virtual computer with specifications that satisfy the software requirements. This includes special requirements like having high-memory or a GPU.
  • Configure one “base” system, and easily make as many copies of the system as need, for example, to scale to class size.
  • Students can access these systems just by using a browser and visiting a website — essentially making the accessible from anywhere, and on any computer.

Costs and support are reduced overall, because:

  • Virtual systems can be turned on and off quickly, on-the-fly, on-demand, or on a set schedule. Costs are incurred only when used, and therefore there are also no long-term cost commitments outside of the scope of the class.
  • Underlying hardware, networking, and other low-level technical maintenance is handled by the cloud vendor.
  • Virtual systems can be specifically tailored to the need, as opposed to a physical computer lab, where, in trying to meet all possible needs, major investment needs to be made for enough systems of sufficient capability, and in the flavors of configuration needed.

Example 3: Augment capabilities of local IT staff

Describe example here.