After a successful 2021 that saw innovations in mobile apps, security tools and infrastructure, UAB IT is looking toward more digital transformation in 2022. See our Annual Report for highlights and wins from 2021.

Major upgrades for well-used systems on campus — including BlazerNET and the Research Administration portal — are on the roadmap for the coming year. Oracle was already upgraded in late 2021 with a new, more user-friendly interface. UAB IT’s goal is to provide cost-efficient, innovative services for campus that transform processes and create a competitive advantage.

Among other planned improvements:

• Updating the research technology purchasing process, to both streamline and shorten the process to better accommodate researchers’ needs.
• Considering a conference room technology standard to create a more consistent experience across campus.
• Expanding the AskBlaze chatbot capability so that any department can request a chatbot.
• Assisting with technology for World Games venues on campus.
• Introducing new security measures, including mandatory information security training for all employees and holding a tabletop exercise to determine how best to respond to attacks such as ransomware.