News Bits & Bytes

Latest USCGAUX IT DEPT News


I Department Teams with CTO Department to Provide Technical Services

I Department is now aligned with the CTO Department to provide greater technology services. In I Department, the Member Services Division is now the primary support for unit websites as the Unit Web Support Division with only minor alignment of positions . The Web Presence, Hosting Services, and Legacy Divisions remain as established. The Application Development Division now resides in the CTO Department and the Project Management Division is reorganized with new roles.

The I Department and CTO Departments form a strong team under the CIO umbrella for technical project development and implementation. There is now in place a plan for the two departments to work together in providing products which will be well planned, tested, with user support. CIO Team customers are those within the Auxiliary: membership, units, and national entities. I Department is responsible for the technical services and will move forward to provide smooth sailing with new technical development.

To that end, there are two new divisions within I Department. User Support Division does the initial project planning, beta testing, and maintains a Help Desk. The second new division is Data Base Administration to establish and maintain data bases which will provide functionality of data now and in the future. We will need new staff to provide these services. This new project protocol will create an environment for moving technology forward in the Auxiliary. Additional Document Information: Technical Project Planning and Project Planning Graphic Display.

[Posted: Mar 16, 2010. Source: Irene Wetzel, DIR-I]


USCGAUX AUXWeb Branding Presentation

The I Department announces the availability of an introductory presentation on “AUXWeb Branding”. This PowerPoint presentation is designed for training opportunities at where a Communication Officer can:


When the training opportunities are present in district or division conferences, advanced skills weekends or other events, consider this presentation as a way to encourage getting your local unit website branded.  Let’s all help to get all auxiliary websites the “AUXWeb Branding Certificate” for a successfully branded website.

The presentation may be found on the AUX04 website at: http://aux04.auxservices.org/auxweb/AUXWeb_Branding2010.ppt or available in a PDF format at  http://aux04.auxservices.org/auxweb/AUXWeb_Branding2010.pdf


AUX CMS Development Report

In the 70-year history of the Coast Guard Auxiliary, web sites are a relatively new tool to communicate with members and the public. During usage, superb efforts throughout the Auxiliary have increased the effectiveness of websites. These tools are always evolving and the I-department is working on developing new ways to help units get on line and provide better communication services with modern Internet-based applications. Also available are tools to help present a cohesive Internet presence for the entire organization. Current websites in general now reflect branding, commonly called 'look and feel' or template design. The Coast Guard has transitioned to a template, and the Auxiliary has offered the template option for those units wishing to support the branding concept: http://aux04.auxservices.org/templateguide/index.htm

There have been multiple requests to have a Content Management System (CMS) available for Auxiliary units.  CMS may provide a method for units without a CS officer to have a website presence.  The primary purpose is to provide opportunities for new and creative capabilities which are not possible with HTML code.  CMS would be a step up for those units wishing to utilize it.  In addition, CMS would allow multiple non-technical members to publish on the website while utilizing the Auxiliary ‘look and feel.’  Additional CMS information:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Content_management_system

There is a CMS project group in I Dept doing research of CMS programs available.  The group is looking into programs which will be supported in the future and has provided successful internet usage.  Drupal may be customized to provide multiple requirements; the White House site is well known for usage ease: http://www.whitehouse.gov/  Various Auxiliary units have used Joomla: http://www.flotilla17.org/

Currently, the CMS Project Group is considering the following possibilities:

Besides considering the practical server space usage needed, the following is an initial list of requirements:

Please join the CS Officer Group to contribute CMS information and discussion: http://groups.google.com/group/cs-officer-group   Many CS officers have experience using various CMS programs.  Let’s know about your experiences and opinions regarding CMS.

CMS Project Team


Button for your Web page

Google Groups
CS Officer Group
Visit this group

[Posted: Dec 10, 2009. Source: Irene Wetzel, DIR-Id]


FOCUS ON SERVICES

The I Department is focused on improving technology in the Auxiliary. Our services are to provide support in such a way that greater member time is spent on missions and less on record keeping and website content postings. There are programs and applications available for Auxiliary improvements. As a collaborative effort, we will make improvements happen. I Department
Our department staff is committed to provide services. COMO Marilyn McBain, DVC-IL, has provided Information Systems leadership for over 28 years and served since 1997 as DSO-IS. She has also served as DC-I, DC-Id and is currently AUX-10 lead instructor. Her dedication to accurate member records has made the Information Systems a success. Now we are preparing to allow members to edit their own personal records on line. This convenience will promote members to update personal records and will be a source for emergency call out, a great step forward. AUX-10
We have a Member Services Division lead by Gregg Trask DVC-IM, who is a past DC-P, DSO-CS, and DSO-IS. He brings focus to member needs, as well as having a technical background. His staff includes Rhonda Rockwell, BC-IMC, who completed the optional Auxiliary Template User Guide and is now taking the lead for AUX-04. In addition, Amy Seeley, BC-IMG is responsible for IT Guides and has just completed the correction links for the CS Guide, more to come as we develop greater services. AUX-04
There is now a database website prototype for those flotillas without presence on the web. The FC is able to submit a JPEG photo and statement. An announcement will be sent to you when available for all flotillas without websites. This service will become available to those units without a site listed on the Flotilla Finder. Potential members will find a flotilla nearby with contact information. In addition, many websites are now proudly displaying the Auxiliary icon branding on left side of their top banner, as on the national site.
Bringing the future into the present is our theme as stated in the EVERGREEN report in the recent edition of the Navigator (Read about the robust strategies, found on the second from the last page). We need to start doing now in readiness for the challenges of 2030.
[Posted: Oct 5, 2009. Source: Irene Wetzel, DIR-Id]


Best of Web 2009 Awards presented during NACON

The annual presentation of Best of Web (BOW) Awards were well received during the Award Presentation by Roy Savoca DIR-I. Submitted websites are evaluated by a panel of judges who score according to the 2009 Evaluation Criteria. The new criteria for BOW 2010 is being developed to reflect greater emphasis on informational content and Auxiliary Template usage. We proudly recognize all the unit websites and those who contribute both content and development.

[Posted: Sept 2, 2009. Source: Irene Wetzel, D-ISd]


NEW ONLINE Auxiliary Officers & Members Directory

The release of the NEW Online Auxiliary Officers and Members Directory is major step forward for our members. The concept was to make it is easy to find other members and get their contact information, view and correct their own information by sending an email 7028 form (Change of Member Information) to the IS officers in their leadership chain. In addition, there are search features that allow for searching by Last Name, member #, email address, officer position and qualification.

Contact information is now quickly available to any level of member based on the office held by that member, including email lists, printable staff or member directories.

The data in this directory is updated every week on Monday and is derived from AUXDATA as the authoritative source.

[Posted: Aug 28, 2009. Source: Bill Pritchard, Chief Technology Officer]


USCGAUX IT DEPT Newsletter

Bits & Bytes is a past publication written for members involved in the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary's Department of Information and Communication Services. There is information within the publications which is beneficial.

 

Year: 2007  |  2006  |  2005  |  2004  | 2003

 

Bits & Bytes 2007

         Volume 5, Issue 5 -- May (65KB PDF)

Contents: A Word from Our New Deputy Chief ◊ AUXDATA Tidbits ◊ Clarification of AMLOC AUXDATA Input ◊ eDirectory Milestone ◊ More on Websites and Flotilla Finder ◊ Top Tips for Mobility in the Workplace ◊ How to Build a Video Podcast in 3 Steps

         Volume 5, Issue 4 -- April (66KB PDF)

Contents: AUXDATA and JINITIATOR ◊ Best of Web [Nominations are now being accepted] ◊ Float Plan Central [New URL] ◊ AuxInfo Quick Access Report Development ◊ Websites and Flotilla Finder ◊ Passwords Revisited ◊ An Easy Way to Remember a Password Passwords ◊ Bits and Bytes Archive New Look ◊ Member-Only Discounts from Softchoice [Adobe products] 

         Volume 5, Issue 3 -- March (97KB PDF)

Contents: Emergency Phone Call Usage (Correction) ◊ C School Opportunities ◊ Auxiliary Knowledge Base ◊ Chain of Leadership ◊ Auxiliary Style Usage Guide ◊ Microsoft Vista and AUXDATA ◊ Passwords

         Volume 5, Issue 2 -- February (94KB PDF)

Contents: Emergency Phone Call Usage (Correction) ◊ C School Opportunities) ◊ Auxiliary Knowledge Base; Chain of Leadership) ◊ Auxiliary Style Usage Guide) ◊ Microsoft Vista and AUXDATA) ◊ Passwords

         Volume 5, Issue 1 -- January (108KB PDF)

Contents: New AUXDATA/AUXINFO Elected Officers Training PowerPoint ◊ Annual Member Letter Reinstituted ◊ New AUXplusPE Version 2.0 ◊ Welcome to the Auxiliary Electronic Dictionary ◊ C-School Dates ◊ Microsoft Vista and AUXDATA; Passwords

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Bits & Bytes 2006

         Volume 4, Issue 11 -- November (142KB PDF)

Contents: I Department Vision/Mission 2007-2008 ◊ Improved/Redesigned USCG Internet Website ◊ Help Navigating the New USCG Website ◊ One-click AUXINFO Reports ◊ AUXINFO and Internet Explorer 7 ◊ Attention ALL IS Officers ◊ Optoutprescreen.com lets you opt out of pre-approved credit cards and the risk of credit card fraud - FREE

         Volume 4, Issue 10 -- October (126KB PDF)

Contents: Message from Outgoing DC-I ◊ Update on Auxiliary Activity Report (AuxAR) Program for AUXDATA ◊ AUXplusPE - The PE Program of 2006 ◊ A Technique to Share AUXINFO Bookmarks

         Volume 4, Issue 9 -- September (246KB PDF)

Contents: 2006 "Best of the Web" Awards Announced at NACON ◊ Commandant's Intent SITREP 2 - First 100 Days ◊ AuxPlus PE Now Available for Flotilla Use ◊ National Staff Guide Book Ready

         Volume 4, Issue 8 -- August (244KB PDF)

Contents: Are you up to date? ◊ Purchasing from Shop Auxiliary ◊ Check Your Email Address Now ◊ AuxPlus PE Now Available for Flotilla Use ◊ AUXDATA: Printing Of Labels from the Member Roster Report ◊ Standby for the Winners [Best of the Web]

         Volume 4, Issue 7 -- July (80KB PDF)

Contents: Dear IS and CS Officers ◊ USCG ICS 100 Course Available on the USCG Learning Portal ◊ Crossing the Bar [Neil Xenos]

         Volume 4, Issue 6 -- June (194KB PDF)

Contents: Travel Made Easy ◊ New Website Template Selection ◊ Last Call for AUX-04 & AUX-10 September C-Schools ◊ Attention All Elected Officers Running for Office and IS Officers at All Levels ◊ Processing a Site Listing Change Request ◊ Welcome Aboard ◊ Site Design Clarification

         Volume 4, Issue 5 -- May (277KB PDF)

Contents: Want to Publish Your Own Unit Website or Learn PowerPoint? ◊ AUX Unit Mail Systems ◊ Last Call for 2005 BOW ◊ ATON-AV Workshop Added ◊ AUXDATA RBSPV Workshop Code Added ◊ What Works [a CS resource]

         Volume 4, Issue 4 -- April (277KB PDF)

Contents: Website Criteria using Bobby/508 Compliance ◊ AUX-10 C School ◊ Early deadline for May Issue

         Volume 4, Issue 3 -- March (277KB PDF)

Contents: Web Site Accessibility Standards ◊ Website Approval Check ◊ New AUXDATA Code: 65C ◊ AUX Student Support Update ◊ How To Library [for CS Officers]

         Volume 4, Issue 2 -- February (147KB PDF)

Contents: New Appointments Announced ◊ A Word from Our New Deputy Chief ◊ Authorized Auxiliary Websites ◊ CHDIRAUX - 2005 Workshops and REYR Status -005/06

         Volume 4, Issue 1 -- January (131KB PDF)

Contents: Happy New Year ◊ Looking for an Email Address? ◊ Want to Publish Your Own Unit Website or Learn PowerPoint? ◊ DSO-CSs on the Road Again! ◊ Float Plan Central ◊ Value-Added Training [courses] ◊ Chief Director's Site has a New Address ◊ Julian Date

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Bits & Bytes 2005

         Volume 3, Issue 11 -- November (109KB PDF)

Contents:  New National Web Site (NWS) formally Launched ◊ The Great Migration has Begun ◊ Attention All who are in the Air Program ◊ Ask Mr. Techie Branch Chief: What's a Database For? ◊ Odd's 'n Ends: The Spellchecker Song

         Volume 3, Issue 10 -- October (220KB PDF)

Contents: Mass migration is drawing near ◊ Operation Life Ring ◊ Browsers and Their Caches ◊ Coast Guard Auxiliary Association (CGAuxA) Website Update ◊ Email Netiquette ◊ Two I-CS Department Staffers with FEMA ◊ Using AUXINFO to Track Your Activities ◊ Odd's 'n Ends: Ever Wonder How Many Bytes a Gigabyte Really Is? / CD and DVD Data Access Speeds

         Volume 3, Issue 09 -- September (117KB PDF)

Contents:  2005 Best of Web Awards Announced At NACON ◊ Update FEMA & CG HQ Assistance ◊ AUX Webmaster Unit Website Migration Update ◊ Attention Auxiliary Webmasters [Official DHS Seal and Signature Usage Guidelines] ◊ Odd's 'n Ends: Space Shuttle Booster Dimensions / Ever wonder how many bytes a Gigabyte really is? / CD and DVD Data Access Speeds

         Volume 3, Issue 8 -- August (325KB PDF)

Contents:  Attention IS Officers: Urgent change ◊ Computer Savvy Help Wanted [Forms Division] ◊ DSO-CS's to Attend NTrain 2006 ◊ REWK Clarification ◊ Odd's 'n Ends: Americans & Computers / Moving Experience / Triskaidekaphobia

         Volume 3, Issue 7 -- July (76KB PDF)

Contents:  Auxiliary NETiquette ◊ Important Information for Auxiliary Webmasters [new URL format] ◊ A Success [new skills in Power Point and Web design] ◊ AUX-10 AUXDATA/AUXINFO C School ◊ Odds 'n Ends: Great Link / A Tuneful Way of Explaining Hard Drive Technology / Factoid [what is a "Factoid"] / Computer Code Names

         Volume 3, Issue 6 -- June (82KB PDF)

Contents:  Welcome Aboard [new IS team members] ◊ [Good news for] Local Unit Webmasters ◊ CITRIX has upgraded ◊ New Feature: Download Saved Searches [in Aux eDirectory] ◊ CORRECTION - Adobe Acrobat Maintenance ◊ PDF Alternatives to Adobe Acrobat 7 ◊ Factoid [Google Picasa] ◊ Cyber Spot of the Month [new C-School Portal] ◊ Did you know? [Bluetooth security issue]

         Volume 3, Issue 5 -- May (66KB PDF)

Contents:  New Opportunities in the I-CS Department Staff ◊ Website Seal of Approval ◊ Important Reminder ◊ Want to publish your own Website or learn PowerPoint? ◊ Adobe Acrobat Maintenance ◊ Factoid [automatic security updates in MS Windows] ◊ Cyber Spot of the Month [Google Maps] ◊ Did you know? [what to do with your old computer]

         Volume 3, Issue 4 -- April (165KB PDF)

Contents:  Welcome to our newest Staffer [Tom Miller] ◊ Reminder - Website Seal Contest ◊ CORRECTION TO: An Alternate Access to AUXDATA--it requires no JINITIATOR ◊ A Perfect Combination ◊ Good News for Travel Reimbursement ◊ Factoid [new pocket "jump drives" or "memory sticks"] ◊ Cyber Spot of the Month [Microsoft home computer security] ◊ Did you know [National "Do Not Call Registry"]

         Volume 3, Issue 3 -- March (80KB PDF)

Contents:  Time to get your websites "Ship - Shape" ◊ The 7029EZ makes reporting Easy ◊ Attention All IS Officers ◊ Time is running out! - Please ◊ What is Phishing or Spoofing? ◊ Factoid [updated duties for SO and IS Officers] ◊ Cyber Spot of the Month [Dell tips on protecting yourself] ◊ Did you know? [easier eDirectory "Find" feature]

         Volume 3, Issue 2 -- February (73KB PDF)

Contents:  Welcome to our newest Staffer [Todd Thuma] ◊ Website Seal Contest ◊ An Alternate Browser May Work [Mozilla Firefox] ◊ POMS On-Line CG-5132 Form ◊ New address update ◊ Revised ANSC 7028 ◊ A New Tool for Auxiliarists ◊ Factoid [some addresses may change on new server] ◊ Cyber Spot of the Month [Bandwidth Speed Test] ◊ Did you know? ["C" Schools]

         Volume 3, Issue 1 -- January (67KB PDF)

Contents:  Welcome to our new Officers ◊ All Aboard for AUX-04 and AUX-10 ◊ Spring Cleaning [Spyware] ◊ Where do I find what I need? [AUXINFO and AUXDATA] ◊ Updated Numbers [AUXDATA] ◊ Attention All New Information Services Staff Officers ◊ Factoid [product "Activation"] ◊ Cyber Spot of the Month [new CS Officers Guide] ◊ Did you know? [AUXDATA and elected/appointed officers]

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Bits & Bytes 2004

         Volume 2, Issue 12 -- December (54KB PDF)

Contents:  Happy Holidays ◊ Information Systems Division [year-end reminder] ◊ Don't forget Form 7006 ◊ Factoid [Adware and Spyware] ◊ Cyber Spot of the Month: Verizon's Internet tutorial  ◊ Did you know? [Windows desktop]

         Volume 2, Issue 11 -- November (50KB PDF)

Contents:  Vicki Vose - Our new Deputy Department Chief ◊ Welcome to our New I-CS Department staffers ◊ New AUXINFO "How To's" ◊  I-CS Dept. on the Move ◊ Factoid [customer service] ◊  Cyber Spot of the Month: Ready.gov ◊ Did you know? [Google Picasa]

         Volume 2, Issue 10 -- October (59KB PDF)

Contents:  Looking Ahead ◊ HELP! Train Me ◊ We have a Winner [National website design contest] ◊ AUXDATA Printing ◊ 2004 BOW Awards correction ◊ Factoid [protecting your computer from viruses] ◊ Cyber Spot of the Month: Service Pack 2 for Microsoft XP users ◊ Did you know? [7006 Change of Officer Report]

         Volume 2, Issue 9 -- September (82KB PDF)

Contents:  2004 Best of Web Awards Announced ◊ If you have XP, what Service Pack 2 will do for you? ◊ AUX-04 "C" School set for ISC - Alameda, CA ◊ Great new PowerPoint for the eDirectory ◊ ShopAuxiliary.com is here! ◊ Last Call on Adobe Acrobat Approval ◊ Cyber Spot of the Month: Web Eyes ◊ Did you know? [synchronize your PC clock]

         Volume 2, Issue 8 -- August (138KB PDF)

Contents:  Don't miss the boat ◊ Our Editor is under the weather... ◊ AUX-04 "C" School set for ISC - Alameda, CA ◊ Worms making the rounds ◊ AUXDATA - REWK and REYR flags ◊ Factoid [special services available to those listed in AUXDATA] ◊ Cyber Spot of the Month: Symantec System Check ◊ Did you know? [affordable PC back-up]

         Volume 2, Issue 7 -- July (186KB PDF)

Contents:  Win big with a new cgaux.org ◊ Patrol Schedules and the Web? ◊ AUX-04 "C" School a huge success ◊  A tiny "aspirin" for the "Spam" headache - at least those using Outlook ◊ AuxInfo - Custom Individual Award Summary ◊ It just got even easier ◊ On the Road Again? ◊ Factoid [Phishing] ◊ Cyber Spot of the Month: NACON 2004 registration ◊ Did you know? [lightning damage to computers]

         Volume 2, Issue 6 -- June (148KB PDF)

Contents:  All Aboard for AUX-04 at ISC Alameda, CA ◊ How-To Library still Growing ◊ FutureWeb Features Instant Messaging ◊ Are your AUXDATA entries showing up ◊ Just a click away ◊ America'sT Boating Course Website Banner Ads ◊ 100% Coverage [for Division 8 websites] ◊ Factoid [making regular backups] ◊ Cyber Spot of the Month: Float Plan Central ◊ Did you know? [Windows XP "rollbacks"]

         Volume 2, Issue 5 -- May (154KB PDF)

Contents:  2004 BOW Competition Reminder ◊ Use it or loose it ◊ Not receiving your email? ◊ Blocking pop-ups and opening reports with Jinitiator ◊ Want to check your Currency? ◊ AUX-04 "C" School Student Support Website ◊ Factoid [using msconfig] ◊ Cyber Spot of the Month: Spybot-Search and Destroy ◊ Did you know? ["What's New" banner]

         Volume 2, Issue 4 -- April (159KB PDF)

Contents:  LAST CALL for AUX-04 at the CG Academy ◊ Want to change your own address? ◊ For All FSO/SO/DSOs-IS ◊ Welcome Aboard [Neil Xenos] ◊ Auxiliary E-Commerce ◊ Factoid [SeniorNet] ◊  Cyber Spot of the Month: Hallmark cards ◊ Did you know? [commonly used in email abbreviations]

         Volume 2, Issue 3 -- March (149KB PDF)

Contents:   WebWatchers Ride Again ◊ AuxInfo in New Clothing ◊ AUX-04 "C" School Reminder ◊ Welcome Aboard [William Helton] ◊ Adobe deal still available ◊ Cyber Spot of the Month: Symantec Security Check ◊ Did you know? [painless way to learn about your Browser or your Operating System]

         Volume 2, Issue 2 -- February (124KB PDF)

Contents:  NTRAIN 2004 a Huge Success ◊ Know your way around FileMaker? ◊ Online testing is a great capability ◊ Raise your hands ◊ Factoid [bandwidth speed test] ◊ Cyber Spot of the Month: Auxie Notebook ◊ Did you know? [Avast 4 FREE anti-virus]

         Volume 2, Issue 1 -- January (158KB PDF)

Contents:  Bits & Bytes 1st Anniversary ◊ AUXDATA - What's Coming? ◊ DSO-CSs touch down in St. Louis ◊ New AUXINFO debuts this month ◊ Factoid [submit your Form 7007 Annual Unit Officer report] ◊ Cyber Spot of the Month: Buying new hardware/software guides ◊ Did you know? [Firewalls]

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Bits & Bytes 2003

         Volume 1, Issue 12 -- December (162KB PDF)

Contents:  2004 Officer Updates ◊ Recent AUXDATA Changes (19 Nov 03) ◊ FutureWeb Features POMS ◊ Just a click away ◊ Factoid [new Department of Homeland Security logo] ◊ Cyber Spot of the Month: Float Plan Central ◊ Did you know? [keeping MS Office applications up-to-date]

         Volume 1, Issue 11 -- November (146KB PDF)

Contents:  Tips for Exporting from AUXINFO into MS EXCEL ◊ Adobe Update ◊ New Directions = New Competencies Available ◊ Monthly What's New Banner ◊ Factoid [AUXDATA] ◊ Cyber Spot of the Month: Google Images ◊ Did you know? [Windows' Critical Updates]

         Volume 1, Issue 10 -- October (123KB PDF)

Contents:  Almost time for officer entry in AUXDATA ◊ New Home for eDirectory ◊ ALERT ALERT ALERT ◊ Aux-eNews ◊ Factoid [number of adults online] ◊ Cyber Spot of the Month: AuxETrain ◊ Did you know? [synchronizing Windows' desktop clock]

         Volume 1, Issue 9 -- September (133KB PDF)

Contents:  Patrick Buckman appointed BA-IRP ◊ Election time is fast approaching ◊ 2003 Best of Web Awards Announced ◊ Factoid [speeding up a slow computer] ◊ Cyber Spot of the Month: MapQuest ◊ Did you know? [Blind Carbon Copy function]

         Volume 1, Issue 8 -- August (124KB PDF)

Contents:  Frequently Asked Questions ◊ Opening a New Aux Website? ◊ LCD is the Way to Go ◊ Factiod [17,901 members listed w/email addresses in AUXDATA] ◊ Cyberspot of the Month: You're in Command ◊ Did You Know? [BeLarc Advisor (a PC auditor)]