Miami University

Program- Background

The TSR program is designed to provide coordination of technologies among Campuses, Divisions, and Departments. The TSRs function as a networked technology support team responsible for achieving common technology standards and solutions where appropriate and for assisting in the implementation of technology throughout the university.

TSR members are appointed by their respective Dean or Department head to fulfill the client needs for solutions and information and serve as liaisons to IT Services. The TSR is also expected to serve as advocates for technology issues among their Dean or Department Head, clients, and IT Services. TSRs participate in group meetings coordinated by the TSR Steering Team.

Each TSR has primary job responsibilities not discussed here. Some TSR members have primary responsibilities for technology support in their Division or Department; others have a less formal role in technology support. The TSR can be a local computer techie, a skilled secretary or faculty member. It is important for the TSR to be a full-time employee with interest in learning about and supporting technologies. TSR members will both learn about new technologies from other group members, and teach TSR members about technologies within their own areas of expertise. See the section below titled, Miami University Technology Support Team Model for background on Miami's tiered technology support model.

In sum, TSRs serve as:

1. Local technology support providers for the clients in their department or division.
   
   
2. Advocates for technology issues and information among their clients, Dean/Department Head, and IT Services, promoting discussion and consensus.
   
   
3. Advocates of their department's/division's position.
   
   
4. Advocates to their department/division on standards.
   
   
5. Members of an advisory group to the Vice President for Information Technology.