Why is computer lab monitoring software essential for higher ed campuses today?
Colleges and universities are facing more pressure than ever before. With tightening budgets, cramped campuses and students’ increasing demand for technology, knowing how hardware and software are being used is essential for current decision-making and future planning.
Computer lab monitoring software is very different from management software.
What is computer lab management software?
Computer management software automates tasks and provides remote access to a group of computers. Management software is an essential tool to ensure computers on your university or college campus are running properly.
Use computer lab management software for:
Remote control of computers
Restrict access to certain users
Shut down, restart or log off remotely
Update and configure the operating system
Execute virus and vulnerability scans
Install and manage software applications
Remote admin access to a computer
What is computer lab monitoring software?
Computer monitoring software gathers usage data to help you make informed decisions. Monitor when, where and how long hardware and software are used on campus.
Use computer lab monitoring software to:
Identify empty lab days/times to convert to a classroom
See most and least used computers on campus
Locations with the most logins
Identify unused software applications
Days/hours with the highest use of computers
Accessibility resources are being used
Provide data that proves compliance (ADA, Accessibility, 504, Title IX)
Justify budget requests with usage data
Identify outdated or vulnerable software that’s bogging down image size
Spot check for unauthorized software downloads
Target where to deploy software
Update refresh schedule to match usage
Compare usage of similar software
Quickly find current IT inventory
Identify computers that are not responding before students/staff
Track individual student usage to fulfill lab requirements
Verify faculty/staff are using requested resources
Track ROI of special funding projects
In broad terms, IT staff are usually the only department that needs access to computer lab management software. However, when it comes to usage data, many more stakeholders on campus can get in on the fun.
Who should use computer monitoring software?
Leadership / Admins
Examine ROI of technology
Justify budget decisions with usage data
Identify areas of desperate need or overlooked excess
Require data to accompany budget requests without depleting staff resources
IT Staff
Confidently install computers and software where students need them most
Provide proof of compliance (ADA, Accessibility, 504, Title IX)
Improve chances of grant approval with hard data
Faculty / Staff
Ensure students are fulfilling lab hour requirements
Justify funding requests for specialized technology
Schedule classes in dual-purpose rooms without impacting open lab use
Understand and set expectations for software use
User permissions ensure that specialized departments and individuals only have access to the information that matters to them. In addition to getting into the software itself, LabStats reports are easy to export and share.
Computer lab management and monitoring systems should be used in tandem on college and university campuses. Ensuring the success of students and optimization of tech on campus relies on both the data to inform decisions, and the power to make those decisions come to life.
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