Month: March 2023

Higher education institutions are constantly looking for ways to improve student retention rates, and analytics can provide invaluable insights into how to do that. Through predictive analytics, colleges and universities can identify current and potential students who may be at risk of dropping out or not completing their degrees on time. By utilizing data-driven methods to identify warning signs such as a lack of engagement or poor grades, administrators can take proactive steps to address these issues before they become too serious.

For example, Degree Analytics is a company that offers an AI-based platform that tracks student data to predict risk factors. It collects information from admissions applications, transcripts, course records, and surveys – then uses machine learning algorithms to analyze the data and send targeted interventions when students are deemed at risk of leaving. These personalized interventions (such as targeted emails, text messages, or phone calls) enable institutions to reach out directly to students in need more quickly and effectively than ever.

Another way higher education institutions can use analytics to improve student retention is by creating personalized education plans for each student. By combining analytic tools with existing university resources, administrators can develop a comprehensive plan tailored to each student’s academic goals and strengths. This will enable them to get ahead in their studies faster and more effectively and stay on track toward graduation.

Finally, analytics can aid higher education institutions in developing better communication strategies between faculty and students – allowing them to understand better what’s working well (and where there’s room for improvement). By tracking what topics are discussed during lectures or which teaching techniques tend to lead to improved performance among different learners, faculty members can adjust their approach accordingly – leading to more successful outcomes in the classroom.

In summary, there’s no doubt that using analytical processes can help higher education institutions increase their student retention rates – enabling them to retain more students and create a better college experience overall. Several companies have already developed powerful platforms that utilize sophisticated analytical techniques; such tools allow administrators to take advantage of these benefits immediately and see marked improvements over traditional methods.

Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) systems have revolutionized how organizations manage resources, streamline processes, and make data-driven decisions. They deliver various benefits, from enhanced efficiency and visibility to standardized processes, increased customer satisfaction, and reduced costs. According to a report by Panorama Consulting Solutions, large organizations have embraced ERP systems, with 81% of organizations with annual revenues over $1 billion and 68% of organizations with annual revenues between $500 million and $1 billion implementing them. The adoption rate for organizations with annual revenues between $50 million and $500 million is steadily increasing, currently at 26%.

Despite the numerous advantages of ERP systems, the critical aspect of post-implementation maintenance is often overlooked. Failing to maintain and update the system can lead to it becoming outdated, unstable, vulnerable to security threats, and ultimately requiring significant investments in time, money, and expensive labor to replace. As such, it is essential to establish a comprehensive maintenance plan and system maintenance life cycle to ensure the system remains stable and secure and performs optimally.

A well-designed maintenance plan specifies the schedule and procedures for regular maintenance activities, such as updates, backups, and security checks. It should be reviewed and updated regularly to account for system requirements or business needs changes. Key components of the maintenance plan include regular system updates, data backups, security checks, performance monitoring, and user training. In addition to the maintenance plan, organizations should establish appropriate environments and a system maintenance life cycle to support their maintenance activities.

The system maintenance life cycle typically comprises four stages: planning, analysis, implementation, and evaluation. During the planning stage, the maintenance plan is created, including the schedule for regular maintenance activities and the resources required to carry them out. The analysis stage involves examining the system to identify potential issues or conflicts that may arise during the maintenance process. In the implementation stage, maintenance activities are performed, and changes are thoroughly tested in a non-production environment before being deployed to the production environment. Finally, in the evaluation stage, the effectiveness of the maintenance activities is assessed, and any necessary adjustments are made to the maintenance plan.

System maintenance can be divided into patch maintenance, upgrades, and enhancements. ERP vendors typically provide patches and upgrades to keep their systems current and secure. Patches are relatively easy to install and address specific bugs in processes or legal changes mandated by legislation. On the other hand, upgrades usually consist of monthly or quarterly maintenance/minor upgrades and a major upgrade every three years. Major upgrades can take several months to install but are essential for keeping systems up-to-date and running smoothly. Enhancements involve adding new features or functionality to the system, ranging from simple to complex.

A robust ERP maintenance strategy experiences fewer issues, better system performance, and lower total cost of ownership (TCO) over time (Source: Deloitte, “Optimizing ERP Maintenance and Support”). This highlights the importance of investing in a comprehensive maintenance plan and adhering to a well-defined system maintenance life cycle.

When implementing an ERP system, organizations should also consider the potential risks and challenges associated with system maintenance. These may include data migration issues, integration complexities, and employee resistance due to changes in work processes. To mitigate these risks, organizations can follow best practices such as involving key stakeholders in planning, establishing clear communication channels, and providing adequate user training and support.

Successful implementation of an ERP system does not end with its deployment. Organizations must recognize the importance of ongoing maintenance to ensure the system remains stable, secure, and effective in delivering the desired benefits. By establishing a comprehensive maintenance plan and system maintenance life cycle, organizations can optimize the performance of their ERP systems, reduce costs, and improve overall efficiency.

Another critical aspect of ERP maintenance is monitoring and measuring the system’s performance. Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) can help organizations track their maintenance efforts’ effectiveness and identify improvement areas. By regularly analyzing these KPIs, organizations can make informed decisions about resource allocation, prioritize maintenance activities, and ensure their ERP system continues to deliver value.

Organizations should also consider leveraging advanced technologies, such as Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML), to enhance their ERP maintenance efforts. These technologies can help automate routine maintenance tasks, predict potential issues before they escalate, and optimize system performance. By embracing these innovative solutions, organizations can stay ahead of the curve and ensure their ERP systems remain reliable, secure, and efficient.

In addition to these strategies, organizations should foster a continuous improvement culture and encourage employees to participate actively in the maintenance process. By involving end-users in identifying system issues, organizations can ensure that their maintenance efforts address real-world problems and lead to tangible improvements in system performance. This collaborative approach can also help build a sense of employee ownership and commitment, leading to higher user satisfaction and system adoption.

Organizations should remain vigilant about the ever-evolving cybersecurity landscape and protect their ERP systems against emerging threats. Regular security audits, vulnerability assessments, and penetration testing can help identify potential weaknesses in the system and provide valuable insights for strengthening its defenses. By prioritizing security in their maintenance efforts, organizations can safeguard their critical data and business operations from the risks posed by cybercriminals.

The ongoing maintenance of an ERP system is crucial to its ability to deliver value to the organization. By developing a comprehensive maintenance plan, adhering to a well-defined system maintenance life cycle, and leveraging best practices and advanced technologies, organizations can optimize the performance of their ERP systems and drive continuous improvement across their business operations. 

About Columbia Advisory Group:
Columbia Advisory Group (CAG) is a leading Information Technology (IT) consulting firm. CAG’s team has assessed and helped improve the performance of more than 300 technology organizations and IT departments, including many higher education institutions, state agencies, and Fortune 50 customers. Practice specialty areas include Infrastructure, IT Service Management, Cybersecurity, and A/V Services. CAG improves business outcomes with IT insights and expert technical support. Based in Dallas, Texas, CAG works extensively with clients throughout the U.S. Contact us at info@columbiaadvisory.com.

References:

1. Panorama Consulting Solutions. (2018). “2018 ERP Report” [PDF file]. Retrieved from https://www.panorama-consulting.com/resource-center/erp-report-archive/2018-erp-report/ This report provides statistics on ERP system adoption rates and trends across different industries and organization sizes.
2. Deloitte. (n.d.). “Optimizing ERP Maintenance and Support.” Retrieved from https://www2.deloitte.com/content/dam/Deloitte/xe/Documents/technology/erp/ME_PoV_Optimizing_ERP_maintenance_and_support.pdf This document from Deloitte provides insights and best practices for optimizing ERP maintenance and support to improve system performance and reduce total cost of ownership.
3. Brehm, H., Heinzl, A., & Markus, M. L. (2001). Tailoring ERP systems: a spectrum of choices and their implications. Proceedings of the 34th Annual Hawaii International Conference on System Sciences. doi: 10.1109/HICSS.2001.927045 This research paper discusses the challenges and risks associated with ERP system maintenance and provides recommendations for tailoring ERP systems to meet specific organizational needs.
4. Ahmad, M., & Cuenca, R. P. (2013). Critical success factors for ERP implementation in SMEs. Robotics and Computer-Integrated Manufacturing, 29(3), 104-111. doi: 10.1016/j.rcim.2012.04.019 This research paper discusses critical success factors for ERP implementation in small and medium-sized enterprises, including the importance of ongoing maintenance and user training.
5. Gartner. (2020). “Magic Quadrant for ERP Systems.” Retrieved from https://www.gartner.com/en/documents/3989363/magic-quadrant-for-cloud-erp-for-product-centric-enterpr This report by Gartner provides an overview of the ERP market, including trends, vendor analysis, and recommendations for ERP system selection, implementation, and maintenance.

Educational institutions have large amounts of critical data at risk like any other organization. Hence, Wi-Fi security and the right solutions are vital for such organizations. This article will examine the importance of Wi-Fi security solutions for educational institutions and explore effective strategies to safeguard their critical data from today’s cyber threats.

Wi-Fi networks have become an integral component of the day-to-day operations of educational institutions, highlighting the critical need for robust security measures to mitigate potential cyber threats. This extensive reliance on technology brings a new set of challenges for IT administrators, as the security of these networks is constantly at risk. Hence, educational institutions must choose the most robust Wi-Fi security solutions to protect their critical information assets.

This article discusses the key considerations when choosing the best Wi-Fi security solutions for educational institutions and the importance of staying ahead regarding security threats.

Critical Information Assets That are at Risk in Higher Education

Educational institutions have a wide range of critical information assets at risk of being compromised in today’s world, which is increasingly digitized. These assets may include student and faculty records, intellectual property, financial data, and other confidential and sensitive information. 

The risks associated with such assets can range from data breaches and identity theft to ransomware and malware attacks. Therefore, educational institutions must proactively protect their critical information assets. That includes implementing robust security measures such as data encryption, secured Wi-Fi connection, firewall protection, and regular security audits.

Wi-Fi Security: Significance for Schools, Colleges, and Universities 

The importance of Wi-Fi security in educational settings should not be underestimated. Wi-Fi has become an essential part of the digital learning environment, and its security is vitally important for the safety of educational institutions like schools, colleges, and universities. These institutions must have strong Wi-Fi security measures to prevent malicious attacks on their networks that could potentially lead to a data breach. 

That is particularly true for universities, which often store sensitive research data on their networks. By implementing robust Wi-Fi security measures, such as authentication, encryption, password policies, and other security policies and procedures, universities can protect their research data and ensure their networks remain safe from malicious activity.

Choosing the Most Effective Wi-Fi Security Solutions: Key Considerations

You will come across many options when selecting the most effective Wi-Fi security solutions. Understanding the following key considerations in the selection process is critical to ensure the most efficient and secure outcome.

Choosing an AI-Driven Solution

One of the more recent options available for Wi-Fi security is using an AI-driven solution. Such a solution can provide many benefits, including improved network performance and enhanced security. AI-driven solutions are specifically designed to detect and prevent malicious activity on a Wi-Fi network. Using machine learning algorithms, these solutions can quickly detect and block malicious activity and provide real-time reporting and alerting of potential threats. 

AI-driven security solutions can integrate automated and intelligent threat detection, analysis, and response capabilities into the security infrastructure. That provides a higher level of protection for Wi-Fi networks by allowing faster and more accurate detection of malicious activity and the ability to respond to potential threats in real time. Furthermore, AI-driven security solutions can continuously learn and adapt to changing network environments, allowing organizations to stay ahead of the latest threats.

Wireless Network Security Protocol

When it comes to wireless network security, choosing an effective and reliable solution is paramount. Different security solutions offer various levels of protection and come with multiple features and capabilities.

The three main types of Wi-Fi security protocols include Wired Equivalent Privacy (WEP), Wi-Fi Protected Access (WPA), and Wi-Fi Protected Access II (WPA2). Each option offers different levels of protection and has advantages and disadvantages.

Wired Equivalent Privacy (WEP)

Wired Equivalent Privacy, commonly known as WEP, is a security protocol used on a Wi-Fi network to provide an encrypted connection between a wireless access point and a client. WEP was first introduced in 1999 but has since been replaced by more secure protocols, such as WPA and WPA2. However, WEP is still commonly used in older Wi-Fi networks or networks with a limited budget.

The encryption protocol used by WEP is based on the RC4 stream cipher. As a result, it is vulnerable to several attacks, such as replay attacks, weak IVs (initialization vectors), and key cracking. These vulnerabilities are amplified when the WEP key is short or weak.

Wi-Fi Protected Access (WPA)

Wi-Fi Protected Access, often called WPA, is a security protocol to protect wireless networks from unauthorized access. WPA advances the Wired Equivalent Privacy (WEP) protocol, the original security standard for wireless networks. WPA was created to address the vulnerabilities of WEP and provide a more secure and robust protocol for wireless communications.

WPA uses encryption and authentication to protect communications over a wireless network. The encryption is implemented through TKIP (Temporal Key Integrity Protocol), designed to dynamically generate a new encryption key for each data packet transmitted.

Wi-Fi Protected Access II (WPA2)

WPA2 is an IEEE (Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers) 802.11i protocol released in 2004 as an advanced security protocol for wireless networks, replacing the older one. WPA2 provides more security than WPA by employing the Advanced Encryption Standard (AES) to encrypt data and authentication.

WPA2 also increases the strength of a wireless network by using a longer and more complex key that requires authentication from both the wireless access point and the client.

Selection of a Trusted Solution Provider

Another critical consideration when looking for the most effective Wi-Fi security solutions is to choose a trusted solution provider. It is of paramount importance as the security of the Wi-Fi network will depend on the quality of the solutions provided.

It is vital to ensure that the solutions being used comply with applicable security regulations while providing the necessary levels of protection. Additionally, they should be designed to minimize the risk of malicious attacks and protect data and confidential information. The provider should also have a comprehensive support system to assist in the event of an issue or problem.

Migrating from WPA2 to WPA3, and Why Does it Matter?

WPA3 offers a more secure and reliable Wi-Fi network than the older WPA2 protocol. WPA2 and WPA3 are two widely used security protocols in Wi-Fi network systems. Migrating from WPA2 to WPA3 is increasingly becoming necessary for many organizations.

WPA2 was first introduced in 2004 and is still used by many organizations despite its known vulnerabilities. WPA3, on the other hand, was designed to address these vulnerabilities, as it is based on a more advanced security protocol called Simultaneous Authentication of Equals (SAE). This protocol uses more robust encryption algorithms and provides more secure authentication methods than WPA2. WPA3 includes an “Individualized Data Encryption” feature, which provides a unique encryption key for each user, making it even more secure.

Best Practices for Wi-Fi Security in Educational Institutions

The following are the best practices all educational institutions must adopt to ensure the security of their Wi-Fi network and critical data assets.

• Implement strong password policies and best practices for secure Wi-Fi network usage.
• Use advanced encryption protocols like WPA2 or WPA3 to secure the institution’s Wi-Fi network.
• Utilize firewalls and WAF (Web Access Firewall) to protect an institution’s on-premise and cloud infrastructure and create a secure barrier for adversaries.
• Regularly patch and update existing networks, devices, and operating systems.
• Use anti-phishing, antivirus, and antimalware software solutions that leverage AI (Artificial Intelligence).
• Limit access to certain services and sites by leveraging whitelisting and blacklisting to control the ingress and egress traffic.
• Implement a guest and BYOD (Bring Your Own Device) remote access policies, start implementing a zero-trust approach, and limit access to the network from non-school devices.

As educational institutions become increasingly connected and digitalized, they must ensure they have the most secure Wi-Fi and network through efficient security solutions. By selecting the correct security protocols, restrictions, and authentication mechanisms, educational institutions can ensure that critical information and students’ data remain fully protected. Also, risk assessments are vital to ensuring that all possible vulnerabilities are identified and rectified, allowing for a securely connected environment.

About Columbia Advisory Group:
Columbia Advisory Group (CAG) is a leading Information Technology (IT) consulting firm. CAG’s team has assessed and helped improve the performance of more than 300 technology organizations and IT departments, including many higher education institutions, state agencies, and Fortune 50 customers. Practice specialty areas include Infrastructure, IT Service Management, Cybersecurity, and A/V Services. CAG improves business outcomes with IT insights and expert technical support. Based in Dallas, Texas, CAG works extensively with clients throughout the U.S. Contact us at info@columbiaadvisory.com.

References

1. Efforts Solutions. Artificial Intelligence (AI) driven Smart Wi-Fi. Retrieved February 16, 2023, from Efforts Solutions IT website: https://effortz.com/ai-driven-smart-wifi/
2. Irei, A. & Scarpati, J. (2022, December). Wireless security: WEP, WPA, WPA2 and WPA3 differences. Retrieved February 16, 2023, from Networking website: https://www.techtarget.com/searchnetworking/feature/Wireless-encryption-basics-Understanding-WEP-WPA-and-WPA2
3. Kerravala, Z. (2019, March 6). Why Wi-Fi needs artificial intelligence. Retrieved February 16, 2023, from Network World website: https://www.networkworld.com/article/3355237/why-wi-fi-needs-artificial-intelligence.html
4. Leininger, L. (2022, August 1). 2022 Public Wi-Fi Statistics: How do we use it and is it safe? Retrieved February 16, 2023, from Highspeedinternet.com website: https://www.highspeedinternet.com/resources/public-wi-fi-statistics
5. Metzler, S. WPA3: The ultimate guide. Retrieved February 16, 2023, from SecureW2 website: https://www.securew2.com/blog/wpa3-the-ultimate-guide
6. Security Uncorked. Wi-Fi security: WPA2 vs. WPA3 – security uncorked. (n.d.). Retrieved February 16, 2023, from Securityuncorked.com website: https://securityuncorked.com/2022/08/wifi-security-wpa2-vs-wpa3/
7. Mordor Intelligence. Wireless Network Security Market. (n.d.). Retrieved February 16, 2023, from Mordorintelligence.com website: https://www.mordorintelligence.com/industry-reports/wireless-network-security-market
8. The Best Practices for School Network Security in 2020. Smile Business Products. https://www.smilebpi.com/the-best-practices-for-school-network-security-in-2020/
9. Hommel, W., Metzger, S., & Steinke, M. (n.d.). Information Security Risk Management in Higher Education Institutions: From Processes to Operationalization. Retrieved February 17, 2023, from Eunis.org website: https://www.eunis.org/download/2015/papers/EUNIS2015_submission_48.pdf

Higher education Registrar Offices play a crucial role in maintaining and updating student records, which include academic, personal, and financial information. With the advancement of technology, most colleges and universities use Ellucian Banner and Degree Works software to manage and store these records. However, managing these systems can be challenging, especially with the increasing complexity of the software. This is where the benefits of having access to a consultant who performs both functional and technical work on Ellucian Banner and Degree Works come into play.

Increased Efficiency

A consultant who is knowledgeable in both the functional and technical aspects of Ellucian Banner and Degree Works can provide Registrar Offices with the support they need to increase their efficiency. They can help streamline processes, automate tasks, and provide guidance on best practices, saving time and reducing errors.

Improved Data Management and Governance

Registrar Offices have access to a vast amount of sensitive and confidential student data. A consultant can assist with data management ensuring that data is stored and processed securely and accurately. They can also assist with data migration and integration, making it easier for Registrar Offices to transfer data from one system to another.   This can expand to include the larger process of data governance to help ensure the quality and reliability of the data.

Enhanced User Experience

Ellucian Banner and Degree Works are complex systems; navigating them can be challenging. A consultant can help Registrar Offices to understand the software better, providing training and support to ensure that users can perform their tasks effectively and efficiently.

Improved Integration

Ellucian Banner and Degree Works integrate with other systems, such as enrollment and financial aid systems. A consultant who is knowledgeable in both functional and technical aspects of the software can assist Registrar Offices with the integration of these systems, ensuring that data is exchanged and processed correctly.

Cost Savings

Hiring a consultant who performs both functional and technical work can save Registrar Offices money in the long run. They can assist with troubleshooting and resolving technical issues, reducing downtime and the need for additional support. They can also provide training and support to ensure that users are able to perform their tasks effectively, reducing the need for external support.

In conclusion, Higher Education Registrar Offices that have access to a consultant who performs both functional and technical work on Ellucian Banner and Degree Works can benefit from increased efficiency, improved data management, enhanced user experience, improved integration, and cost savings. These benefits make it easier for Registrar Offices to manage student records and provide a better experience for students, staff, and faculty.

About Columbia Advisory Group:
Columbia Advisory Group (CAG) is a leading Information Technology (IT) consulting firm. CAG’s team has assessed and helped improve the performance of more than 300 technology organizations and IT departments, including many higher education institutions, state agencies, and Fortune 50 customers. Practice specialty areas include Infrastructure, IT Service Management, Cybersecurity, and A/V Services. CAG improves business outcomes with IT insights and expert technical support. Based in Dallas, Texas, CAG works extensively with clients throughout the U.S. Contact us at info@columbiaadvisory.com.