Policy on the use of the
USM Interactive Video Network (IVN)
Developed by USMTC and approved by the Chancellor
The USM IVN system, supported by both individual and collective efforts of the USM institutions through the USMTC, enables cost-effective telecommunications among the USM institutions and to outside institutions via interactive compressed video. The USM Interactive Video Network (IVN) thus provides another technological capability for the development of distance learning and the variety of inter-campus activities, e.g., research activities and administrative meetings, that can benefit from such time-saving 'face-to-face' interactions. The following document outlines the respective responsibilities of UMATS and the USM institutions in supporting and managing the USM IVN system and policies on expectations and priorities of access to IVN resources.
1. PURPOSE.
The University System of Maryland Telecommunication Council (USMTC) administers the USM IVN system as one of the services it provides to the USM institutions through The University of Maryland Academic Telecommunications System (UMATS). As part of that service UMATS is responsible for developing and maintaining a compatible IVN infrastructure of video bridges and providing each USM institution a connection to the UMATS network.
2. PRIORITY FOR ACCESS.
A finite number of potential port connections for the IVN and the requirement for additional bandwidth constrains the number and configuration of simultaneous connections. Institutions requiring multiple video connections pay for the additional bandwidth they require. UMATS makes every effort to provide IVN port connections as needed by the USM institutions. If in the future port connections become limiting, the USMTC will establish more specific priorities for IVN connections. The general priority for use of the USM IVN system is in support of USM academic programs.
3. DIVISION OF RESPONSIBILITIES.
Each USM institution controls access to its IVN facilities and is responsible for on-site facilities and services: meeting room, video systems, local technical support, liaison with UMATS, and end-user training. The USM institutions are expected to provide the facilities and technologies standards recommended by UMATS that will keep the USM IVN system state-of-the-art and conducive to effective interactive video use. UMATS may not be able to continue to support IVN service to institutions not maintaining current technology standards. UMATS provides to the USM institutions information about and negotiates group rate contracts for recommended equipment purchase and maintenance agreements.
UMATS is responsible for co-ordinating availability and scheduling of IVN usage among the the USM institutions and for providing video site connections within the USM IVN system. The initiating USM institution is responsible for costs incurred when connecting outside the USM, whether using services provided by UMATS or arranging such connections independently.
Each USM institution oversees and manages the use of its IVN facility within the USM IVN usage guidelines described above
4. FEES FOR USE.
Each USM institution determines the availability and fees for using its on-site facilities. USM institutions are expected to provide facilities to other USM institutions at no more than actual on-site costs. Institutions using UMATS for connections external to the USM will be charged by UMATS for technical support and line costs.
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