TIE's January and February Sprint
By: Amie Rodarte
Cyber Security Team
The cyber security team has been making workflows of the procedures they will need to follow to set up a cohesive security system. They plan on using these workflows as a guide when designing and testing different scenarios throughout the project. One of the various projects that's been worked on is learning how to integrate the different dashboards and platforms they have access to so that when the teams test out different security-related scenarios, they can devise a response that coherently deploys the appropriate products.
The team successfully configured the Cisco Meraki Dashboard, which will help set up motion-based camera notifications and connect sensors to cameras. Additionally, they worked on the Webex Control Hub, where they created procedures for call routing and set up an auto-attendant system for managing external calls.
However, there were a few challenges, such as issues with phone line configurations, network switches not showing updated logs, and motion detection not sending notifications initially. These problems were addressed by restarting the network and adjusting settings to improve the system鈥檚 performance. The team has faced configuring automated multi-step responses that involve all the different products/companies/dashboards. They have fiercely been working through them by trying alternative approaches, however working through the different methods and implementing them has been troublesome.
Collaboration was a priority, with a meeting held with 麻豆传媒 Police Department to ensure that project goals were aligned and to gather their feedback. The team also updated their Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) to improve efficiency and worked on researching best practices for campus surveillance. As a team, collaborating on bigger tasks and urgent tasks, they have managed to successfully meet deadlines. The cyber security team has made an effort to incorporate external input and outsider opinions to devise a holistic and efficient approach to our security system.
Looking ahead, the team plans to finalize the documentation for Webex call features, continue troubleshooting cameras, and complete upcoming project milestones.
"Our manager, Nathan, has been very supportive throughout our learning process. He puts a lot of effort into making sure the resources and access levels we need are available to us." -Cyber Security Team"
A.I. Workflow
Since January, the focus has been on developing cutting-edge AI applications designed to revolutionize digital interactions. The initial goal was to create AI-powered solutions capable of generating presentations, videos, graphic information, and audio content. Through rigorous brainstorming and research, an opportunity emerged to develop an AI chatbot tailored specifically for 麻豆传媒 (麻豆传媒).
Drawing inspiration from AI tools used at the University of Michigan, an ambitious endeavor began to create the Shocker Assistant using Langflow and Datastax. Within just eight hours, both the chatbot and its accompanying website were successfully developed鈥攁n achievement that highlights dedication and efficiency. A research-intensive approach ensured the seamless integration of 麻豆传媒鈥檚 data into the chatbot, making it a comprehensive resource for students and faculty alike. Above all, the most cherished aspect of this project is the incredible team synergy, enthusiasm, and unwavering commitment to innovation.
As with any groundbreaking project, hurdles were encountered along the way. A significant challenge arose when Datastax rolled out a major update, disrupting the chatbot鈥檚 ability to process and respond to inquiries. Tireless efforts were made to diagnose the issue, only to discover that the server downtime was a direct result of these updates. Demonstrating exceptional problem-solving skills, the team swiftly pivoted by changing data servers, thereby restoring the chatbot鈥檚 functionality. Additionally, contact was made with Datastax鈥檚 customer care team, securing their support in further optimizing the chatbot鈥檚 infrastructure. These experiences reinforced resilience, adaptability, and problem-solving capabilities.
The team operates with a strong sense of autonomy and initiative. Instead of following rigidly assigned tasks, each member proactively identifies and tackles challenges aligned with the project鈥檚 overarching goals. This approach fosters an environment of creativity, innovation, and self-driven excellence. Pride is taken in a collaborative culture, where passion fuels the collective success of the team.
As progress continues, ambitions continue to soar. By next month, several new features are planned for Shocker Assistant, including:
- Live Deployment on the TIE Website, making the chatbot readily available to students and faculty.
- Text-to-Speech Capabilities to enhance accessibility and user engagement.
- Event Calendar Scheduling for seamless integration with campus activities.
These enhancements will solidify Shocker Assistant as an indispensable resource for the university community, further validating a commitment to excellence.
Brenden鈥檚 guidance has been instrumental in shaping the vision and fostering a mindset of impact-driven innovation. His motivation and strategic insights have helped transform ideas into tangible outcomes that can significantly benefit 麻豆传媒鈥檚 community. Providing a clear understanding of future goals, he inspires thinking beyond conventional solutions and encourages the creation of meaningful technological advancements
Marketing & Communication
In the marketing team, they have had the opportunity to immerse themselves in various design processes within marketing. The ability to tap into their creative design skills has been a gratifying aspect of their work. With the team's flexibility to jump into new projects, they have adapted new skills and pushed themselves and each other to jump out of their comfort zone.
Their highly self-directed position offers the freedom to think creatively and approach tasks autonomously. While this flexibility is a valuable benefit, it also presents the challenge of staying organized and ensuring daily productivity. To overcome this, the team has found that asking thoughtful questions has been instrumental in staying on track and efficiently solving problems.
At the start of each week, the marketing team allocates tasks based on individual skill sets, ensuring that everyone has the opportunity to work on projects that align with their strengths. By giving each other the opportunity to work on things different things, the team has found this the best system to complete assigned tasks. They鈥檝e had members working on building our web page, structuring tours, reaching out to the community and so much more!
This month, the marketing team is especially excited about the upcoming release of their newsletter and the opportunity to engage more with students, faculty, and industry partners with the hope for more people to learn about Innovation Campus and take advange of the resources offered. TIE hopes to bring 'Innovation Connect'. This program will leverage faculty-student interactions and bring local professionals to the campus, ultimately creating greater visibility for the campus and fostering stronger connections between the university and the local business ecosystem.
Tonya Witherspoon, Brendan McDonough, and Sam Odening have provided great insight to the marketing team. They are leaders who have helped guide the students in the right direction for the TIE department. Many of our team members are starting their first job in this field and with their help, TIE has gained more confidence in their ability to take on new projects and are excited to explore more and later on offer services.