Article Summary: At Anne Arundel Community College, we are dedicated to ensuring that all software applications used within our environment meet the highest standards of security, accessibility, and functionality. During the application review process, there are times when we are unable to approve the use of certain applications because they present a high level of risk to our systems, data, or users, including our students. This article explains why an application might be denied and outlines the steps we take to offer suitable alternatives.
Why Applications May Be Denied:
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IT Security Risks: Applications that fail to meet our security standards pose significant risks to our systems and users. This includes vulnerabilities in data protection, inadequate encryption, or insufficient user authentication mechanisms. Protecting sensitive information, particularly that of our students, is a top priority.
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Licensing Concerns: Ensuring that all software is properly licensed and compliant with institutional and legal requirements is critical. Applications with unclear or restrictive licensing terms, or those that cannot be used within our academic setting, may be denied to avoid potential legal and financial liabilities.
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Deployment and Integration Challenges: Applications that present difficulties in deployment or integration with our existing infrastructure, such as our Canvas LMS, might be rejected. Ensuring seamless integration is vital for maintaining efficient educational and administrative processes, which directly impacts students and faculty.
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Database and Role Management Issues: Applications that do not offer adequate database management or role-based access controls may compromise data integrity and user management. This can lead to unauthorized access to sensitive information, making it a significant risk.
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Accessibility Concerns: Applications that fail to meet accessibility standards may prevent all users, particularly students with disabilities, from effectively using the software. We strive to ensure that every student has equal access to the tools they need for their education.
Offering Alternatives: When an application is denied approval, we understand that this can be disappointing. However, our team is committed to working with you to identify alternative solutions that meet your needs while adhering to our standards. This may involve:
- Recommending similar applications that have already been vetted and approved, ensuring they are safe for all users, including students.
- Exploring workarounds or custom solutions that can achieve the desired outcomes without compromising security, accessibility, or compliance.
- Collaborating with vendors to address identified risks or concerns, where feasible, to make the application viable for future use.
Next Steps: If your requested application has been denied, please reach out to our team. We are here to help you explore available options and find a solution that works for you. Together, we can ensure that the software used across our institution is secure, accessible, and effective for every student, faculty member, and staff member.
Contact Information: For further assistance, contact the IT Service Desk at 410-777-HELP (4357).