We have put in place a programme to stimulate the seamless use of videoconferencing in the education and research community. Due to the high level of interest we are delighted to announce that we have a further programme of activity later this year.

Last October, many of you responded to our invitation for applications for the allocation of new high-definition videoconferencing equipment. After an open procurement process, we contracted for the supply and support of Polycom HDX 7002 XL units.

The 22 successful applicants have been contacted and agreements for the allocation of the equipment are being finalised. Installation and training is well under way with support extending over a three-year term.

Along with stimulating the use of videoconferencing, the programme also serves to enhance our videoconferencing facilities as well as raise awareness of the many benefits of videoconferencing in teaching and research. For example, one of the requirements for allocation of the high-definition units was that clients must advertise videoconferencing as an available service on their website.

We will be contacting all remaining institutions with details of the next programme of activity in due course.

The HEAnet procurement model allows HEAnet clients to procure additional units at the terms tendered.

You can contact us for more information about this or any questions about our videoconferencing service at multimedia@heanet.ie