The University of Denver launched an iPhone application Oct. 7 that allows the DU network of past, present and future students and faculty to stay up to date on campus news and events.
The application is free and can be downloaded from iTunes.
“University Technology and University Communications collaborated, came up with the design and put it together,” said Cindy Crouch, director of computer operations in the University Technology Services department.
Over the summer, DU commissioned a technology company out of Tulsa, Okla. to work on the project. The university pulled pieces from databases and information from the student registration system, integrating interfaces for online directory, courses, web events, etc.
The app includes multimedia videos and photographs, athletic updates, Twitter news and links, polls with interactive questions, the DU fight song and more.
“It is updated everyday,” Crouch said.
For now, it is compatible with the Apple iPhone, iPod Touch and iPad.
University officials and technology experts are in the process of developing a version for the Android, to be compatible with other smart phones and tablets in the coming months, said Jim Berscheidt, Interim Vice Chancellor for University Communications.
“Many universities aren’t doing this yet,” he said. “But apps are becoming something much more commonplace.”
Apps are a way for networks of people to stay in communication, he said.
“They serve as an important way to communicate and pull information together. Things are changing so rapidly with technology and communication, this is a very popular way for people to keep in touch,” Berscheidt said.
He added that they are looking at ways to incorporate course registration, but for now, with no authentication, there are security issues.
Berscheidt expects that with increased communication about the new technology, it will become more popular. Marketing initiatives to promote the app will be rolling out in the coming weeks.
He has already spoken to a number of students who said they have downloaded the app and are using it for the directory feature, to see maps, read DU Today and browse various links.
“I have the app,” senior Chris Røsting said. “It is very convenient because all the information that I need is mobile and at my fingertips.”
