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Effective virtual collaboration sessions​

Wednesday, March 25th, 2020

When establishing the expectations for remote working, ensure all team leaders and practitioners understand how to communicate and collaborate effectively when working remotely

Principles

  • Be on time, finish on time
  • Ensure that all voices are heard
  • Align on purpose, have a clear agenda
  • Exaggerate your voice, pronunciation and pitch to come better across

Framework​​

  • Include dial-in details on all meeting invites Including relevant MS teams, Skype or Zoom details on all invites is a small act that goes a long way, ensuring virtual workers are always included.
  • Give everyone an equal opportunity to share their voice Meeting leaders should use purposeful breaks so that everyone has an opportunity to contribute. If you’re a participant, use the raise hand feature if you can’t find a break in the conversation. Make use of the chat function to pose questions and add comments without disrupting the current flow of conversation.
  • Turn on your camera Turn on your video wherever possible and be camera ready. This helps all participants get the most out of virtual meetings. 
  • Take your call somewhere quiet Find a quiet space to participate. Open plan environments are saturated with background noise—make sure you use a professional headset.
  • Be on the call 2-3 minutes prior, or 5 if you are hosting Join virtual calls 2-3 mins early to ensure an on time start. If you are the host aim for 10 minutes prior to ensure everything is working correctly. 
  • Time your meetings and keep them short Not all meetings need to be 45 –60 minutes long. Aim for short concise meetings that run efficiently—stick to an agreed agenda. 
  • Use digital collaboration tools If one or more members in the meeting are attending virtually, consider using digital collaboration tools such as an in-built whiteboard.
  • Include meeting agendas/provide everything needed In the event that screen sharing does not work ensure others have copies of the file prior to the call (at the very least the facilitator). Upload any presentations beforehand to avoid technical obstacles.
  • Use the mute button Use the mute button to prevent transmitting background noise when you’re not speaking.

IT support during COVID

Monday, March 23rd, 2020

In line with SU communication regarding the operational needs and our staff’s well-being Information Technology also must limit the exposure and levels of infection of our IT Support staff.  Until further notice the following logistics are applicable to ensure the continuation of IT support to the University community:

ICT Partner Portal

For any support, please log a call on the ICT Partner Portal. In case of requests to work from home, please note that a request type for the remote access has been created which you can select on the entry page. A reference number will be emailed to you and a technician will be in contact. Please do not send an email to help@sun.ac.za.

Remote Assistance

Technicians assigned a request will contact the user and support will be provided remotely. 

No deliveries or collections

Until further notice desktops, laptops or mobile devices will not be collected or delivered. Technicians will contact the end-user telephonically and arrange for pickup or delivery of their devices from the demarcated areas at the IT HUB.

No support available at end-user residence

For end-users already working from home only remote assistance for support will be provided. No IT Technicians will be called out for support

McAfee upgrade

Thursday, March 12th, 2020

As we all know, McAfee has been the product of choice with regards to Virus Protection on campus computers. New and improved products are released regularly, and we need to keep up with the change to remain protected against virus attacks.

We are currently in the process of upgrading our McAfee environment to McAfee Endpoint Security.

What is it?

McAfee Endpoint Security is a modern, integrated, extensible security solution that protects servers, computer systems, laptops, and tablets against known and unknown threats. These threats include malware, suspicious communications, unsafe websites, and downloaded files. It replaces several legacy McAfee products that were deployed as point products (VirusScan Enterprise and others) with a single-agent architecture and integrated advanced defences like machine learning analysis, containment, and endpoint detection and response (EDR).

How is it different from VirusScan Enterprise?

McAfee Endpoint Security outperforms VirusScan Enterprise, giving you a 25% higher protection rate.

How will the upgrade affect my computer?

During the upgrade process, your computer will become a little slower, but this is just temporary.

Any questions? Have a look at the FAQs.

Phishing email with subject “SUNCOM”

Wednesday, February 5th, 2020

An email from a sun.ac.za address with the subject “SAFECOM – 5 / FEBRUARY / 2020” has been sent to staff and students. The email asks you to open a message received from “SUNCOM” (also see image below)

This is not a legitimate email, but a phishing attempt which will lead you to a fake website.

By clicking on links and providing your information, you give criminals access to your personal information and your accounts. If you think your account or device has been compromised or you notice suspicious activity:

  • Immediately change your password on www.sun.ac.za/password.
  • Contact the IT Service Desk by logging a request or calling 808 4367.
  • More information is available on our blog and Twitter.

Card access problems on campus

Tuesday, February 4th, 2020

Some students and staff might experience problems with card access on campus.

Due to a heavier load on the network in terms of traffic and potential technical glitches, card access is being denied at some doors.

The rights of valid and registered cards will automatically updated after they’ve been swiped and should work shortly afterwards. 

We realise that this is frustrating and inconvenient and are doing everything possible to address the problem. 

For further enquiries, please log a request on servicedesk.sun.ac.za.

 

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