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TO: Prof. Thomas Impelluso, Chair, College Ad-Hoc Computer Committee
FROM: Prof. V. Miguel Ponce
SUBJECT: UNIX Use in the College of Engineering
DATE: May 09, 2003
Please find enclosed a draft document entitled "UNIX Use in the College of Engineering." This document has been prepared as a first action in the formation of the College's Unix Users Group.
Since 1996, Unix use in the College has increased from nearly zero to the current level described in the enclosed document. This has been possible due to the College's commitment to Unix in terms of hardware, software and staff support. It is no secret that the web-serving and other capabilities of Unix-based systems are yet to be matched by alternative systems such as Windows (this, without even elaborating on Unix's inherent immunity to virus attacks). It bears repeating that Unix users, both faculty and students, have benefitted enormously from this tactical advantage.
I urge you to examine this document, contribute to its enrichment, and to move promptly on the following action items:
- To establish a policy of computing diversity in the College, by which the College commits itself to supporting both Unix and Windows, as well as other systems (such as Linux) that may become important, through faculty choice, in the future. These are tools of choice, and should be regarded at such.
- To recommend to the College administration that appropriate resources be committed to maintain and enhance the current level of support for Unix, in both hardware and software. Of particular concern is the continuance of the excellent level of support that Unix users have enjoyed for the past 7 years. Erosion of this support in any way would seriously compromise the teaching and research activities of the College in general, and of Unix Users Group members in particular.
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