The University hired Marc Hoit to be the new vice chancellor for Information Technology. Hoit officially took his new position Sep. 1 and implemented some minor changes to University computing policy, most of which are simple bureaucratic changes that move most computer and network-related issues to the Office of Information Technology.

Information Technology is an integral part of college life, ranging from Facebook and online registration to peer-to-peer file sharing and online Wolfline bus tracking. Students need to provide feedback to the University so that it may improve the existing services and create new services and systems.

Existing policies on fair use and copyright laws are a hot topic, particularly as NCSU is one of the Recording Industry Association of America’s top-25 worst offenders. Hoit also emphasized making University computing and networking a robust, easily accessible system for students and faculty.

This should matter to students. File sharing is definitely one issue students need to care about. One solution Hoit proposed was to implement something like the University of Florida’s Red Lambda system, which monitors and blocks peer-to-peer file sharing.

This solution is exceedingly harsh. If students want to see less of the RIAA, they need to work with OIT to come up with an alternative file sharing system that protects both students and the University from the threat of legal action. They do not need to allow the University to put a draconian ban on file transmission.

Making MyPack Portal as easy to use as possible is another plus for students – they should be able to check grades and register for classes at any time from any Internet-capable device, whether it’s a University computer or a cell phone.

Wireless coverage is also something that matters to faculty and students alike – having to plug a computer into a residence hall’s wall port to get Internet access is an unnecessary hassle. Students need to make sure that getting improvements in the coverage and quality of the existing system should be a top priority for OIT.

Creating these new technologies, as well as other potential improvements, is the reason that Vice Chancellor Hoit was hired. There is plenty of room for integrating information technology into the University, but students and faculty need to give it a direction.