Most are also planning to convert to a new common suite of Business Information Systems software. There is a common payroll system in use for 30 of the 34 institutions. This degree of commonality will significantly enhance the ability to extract useful management information from the operational systems. Formally defined standards and recommendations from OIIT help provide direction to the participating institutions while maintaining flexibility. First generation networking technology is fairly pervasive on most campuses.
Most campuses have stable hardware and networking environments.
Most campuses, including the largest, feel that current computing and networking capacity is sufficient for immediate needs, but that fast approaching future needs still need to be addressed. Most feel that they have satisfactory planning processes in place with respect to administrative systems to articulate needs, but that the funding mechanisms are in need of a substantial overhaul. This not only facilitates the sharing of resultant knowledge among themselves, but represents an invaluable resource for the State. The transfer of the resultant knowledge and experience to State agencies and even private enterprise within the State can be of enormous economic benefit to Georgia. The coming use of multimedia delivery will greatly increase the demand for bandwidth and newer switching technologies to provide adequate service.