New IT projects to deliver ‘world-class service’ for research, teaching and PS

08 May 2024

A future-proof network is coming to The University of Manchester via a stream of multiple IT projects all focused on providing a stable, seamless, secure service.

Network issues across campus are a common grumble but an exciting parcel of new projects aims to square up to the issues that will enable staff and students to do their best work. 

Just like power, running water and gas, internet and network connectivity is an essential service that forms the foundation that allows staff and students to carry out their work, research and studies here at The University of Manchester.  

Associate Director for Technology at Manchester Alex Goffe calls it ‘the fourth utility’ and acknowledges that the intricacies of this service often go unseen.  

“As one of the world leaders in research and teaching we need a fit for purpose and readily available network to help power all that we do,” he said. “The Network 2030 programme gives us the opportunity to engage with our university community to meet their needs, delivering a world-class service and ensure value for our investments.” 

Be a part of our 'community voice'

Our networks are used in various and sophisticated ways across campus, and the needs and idiosyncrasies of each corner of the organisation vary enormously. This is not something the project team can second-guess, which is why a series of focus groups for students, academic and PS staff are in the pipeline. Participants will form a crucial ‘community voice’ for the future of the University of Manchester’s network, shaping its direction and identifying risks and sticking points in the months and years to come.  

These focus groups are open to all members of the University who wish to be involved, and the team invites everyone at The University of Manchester to take a short survey about their experience with our network, whether or not they wish to be involved in the focus groups directly.  

Building on lessons learned from past network projects, this new approach to bringing the University’s network up to standard will have end-users at its heart and aims to educate as well as deliver the best network service as befits a Russell Group university.