Over the past few years we have received several complaints about the current file sharing infrastructure from many users. Our current systems are too fragmented, complicated to understand, and sharing files for collaboration typically requires ITS staff intervention.
To address these concerns as well as simplify the backend infrastructure, ITS will be rolling out a new filesharing system beginning this summer. The new system, Xythos, has a Web interface and can also be accessed via your Mac’s Finder or via Windows Explorer.
This system will eventually replace Dragon (Windows users’ G: and H:drives), provide an external file storage and sharing system for Blackboard, and provide a space for publicly accessible personal Web files and sites (replacing static Web page serving by condor.wesleyan.edu), thereby offering our users a central interface to manage all files.
A major strength of the system is that it puts control of sharing into the hands of the end-user. For instance, you’ll be able to set up course shares yourself without needing ITS intervention. You will also be able to control access to Web sites without the need for Frontpage.
Our academic computing managers and desktop support staff will work with individual departments to roll this product out. The roll out will begin this summer with the NSM departments. When we have a firm timeline for the roll out to other departments and the students, we will publish them here.