News report from the "trenches:"
 
The MCIS Help Desk has been swamped with students having questions about
PPP installation/use and just seeking information about the network.
While we knew we'd be busy, we did not expect such a dramatic onslaught
so early -- only around 4,000 students out of about 16,000 students are
in town so far, I think.
 
While we did a great deal of testing, we obviously have not been able to
test the software on the wide variety of computers that students are now
using, and we don't yet have answers for all the problems.  I can assure
you we have our most knowledgeable staff working on the PPP questions
and resolutions, but staffing is extremely limited.
 
Due to the tight deadlines on this project, and various problems that
were encountered, we are running behind in getting a Frequently Asked
Question/Answer list together to distribute to students and the Help
Desk.  We are working to get the Help Desk staff knowledgeable about PPP
issues and resolutions, but that will take some time.
 
Until the Help Desk is adequately trained by our staff knowedgeable in
the PPP issues, we are asking students to seek assistance from other
students who have been successful, and we are asking them to let us know
when, if and how they are successful so that we can learn as well.
 
Please bear with us.  Fall start-up is always a challenge, made ever
more so interesting by the new network and associated new services.
We're excited to be serving you.  Thanks for your patience and
understanding.
 
Debi Allison
MCIS Assistant Director for Client Services