Winter Break is a good time in the academic year to take stock and make plans for how to use technology more impactfully. In this article, I’ll be discussing the MISO satisfaction survey and plans for staff restructuring to better address community needs. Other articles in this issue provide suggestions for community members to learn more about cybersecurity and Generative AI over the Winter Break.
MISO Satisfaction Survey
I want to start by thanking the many folks who took the time last spring to respond to the Measuring Information Services Outcomes (MISO) survey.
Ten years ago, feedback from the MISO survey prompted us to accelerate the growth of the wireless network with more access point redundancy, improve the Hub user interface, and simplify the process for managing Moodle courses year to year.
This year’s survey feedback highlights the value of continued investments in wireless infrastructure. Carleton satisfaction with WiFi averaged 3.60 (on a 4-point scale) compared to 3.39 for our peer institutions. Other well-reviewed services included Moodle support, instructional technology support, cybersecurity policies & procedures, and video conferencing/Zoom.
Upcoming Changes
Other feedback from this year’s survey, in addition to ITS’s own strategic planning process, has prompted the restructuring of a number of staff positions. The positive response over the past two years of having a dedicated professional staff member engaging calls to the Helpdesk has reinforced the priority of creating a permanent position. Doug Foxgrover’s upcoming retirement will make this possible.
In addition, the scope of Julie Anderson’s role has shifted to allow her to spend more time addressing project management and outreach. Her new title is Director of IT Planning & Communications. In the February newsletter, we will share more about changes to Julie’s team and improvements to managing projects to provide greater clarity for our campus partners.
It is a challenge for small colleges that we rely on the same staff members to support current services, to maintain those services, and to work with campus partners to apply emerging technologies. These new roles will help ITS balance priorities, engage more consistently with campus members, and to implement changes that will add long-term benefit.

A Big Thank You
Finally, I want to recognize the wonderful work of Doug Foxgrover who has served as the ITS Communications Lead for the past 11 years. These newsletters and our annual report reflect his collaborative approach and his keen editorial ear. Happy retirement, Doug. Thank you!!