The central computing services unit has to provide a network infrastracture and the technical expertise and leadership to help users make effective use of network computing. Only then can the University reap the benefits of a seamless distributed computing infrastructure in which a desktop computer can access a library catalog, students records, a color printer across the campus, or a supercomputer across the continent.
A state of the art information technology environment is mandatory to maintain and improve productivity in research and the quality of instruction, and to facilitate the University's administration. Advances in many areas of information technology have given rise to tools that facilitate and enrich university activities. Those institutions which fail to exploit them will be left behind.
