SUBJECT:

Academic Computing and Media Services (ACMS)

I am pleased to announce our intent to merge Academic Computing Services (ACS) and Media Services at UCSD into a new entity called Academic Computing and Media Services (ACMS). This consolidation is driven both by the desire to achieve cost savings and efficiencies in a difficult budgetary climate and because the convergence of instruction, technology and media make this merger a logical step. We anticipate that we will capture organizational efficiencies by merging similar functions of the two units. Additionally, the merger will allow ACS and the Media Center to absorb the already announced support budget cuts as well as future cuts while maintaining high levels of service. Finally, and perhaps most important, we hope to provide a single point of contact, for student and faculty for all instructional technology needs on campus.

The reorganization will begin immediately under the co-directorship of Tony Wood and Jeff Henry, who are currently Directors of ACS and Media Services, respectively. We anticipate that 90 percent of the transition, as far as services are concerned, will be completed and ready by the start of instruction in Fall 2009. This will include a one-stop help desk and a single merged website for the combined services. The merger will be complete in about a year, by which time the staff will have been consolidated into a single unit.

Should you have any questions, concerns or suggestions regarding this merger please feel free to direct them to SVCAA@ucsd.edu.

Paul W. Drake Senior Vice Chancellor