Penn State Exploits Intranet for Advising
Penn State University has installed a Web-based academic advising system that allows students to access their records anytime from nearly any location on or off campus. Starting this fall, they can, for example add and drop classes, track degree requirements and explore different majors using a computer and Web browser. The university has built an Intranet that uses Gradient Technologies' WebCrusader software for desktop-to-data security. "Web-based advising won't take the place of face-to-face meetings with faculty advisors, but it offers students a more comprehensive means for monitoring progress, planning their futures and making well-informed decisions," says Ken Blythe, director of the Office of Administrative Systems. Penn State also plans to use WebCrusader to permit faculty members to review research proposals and even order products right from their desktop. The product family implements a proven, industry-standard infrastructure that runs client/server applications securely over the Web. Gradient Technologies, Marlborough, MA, (508) 624-9600, www.gradient.com.