Web-based applications need distinct logins and logouts and periodic cache clearing

As a district we have moved to web-based tools that use a continuous WiFi or wired connection and an active web session to enter and save data (i.e. PowerTeacher, PowerSchool, STAGES, illuminateEd, Lexia, Seesaw). This is very different than a standard website that serves up static pages for you to read. When using a web app, the server to which you are connected is paying attention to the location from which you have connected and is monitoring that address for activity.

• Always log out of web applications prior to closing the lid on your computer. This lets the servers know you have finished your session. WAIT until you see an acknowledgement that you are logged out before closing the lid.
• If you have changed locations while (walked from one area of the building to another, say), quit any open browsers and log in again in order to establish a new session. When you move, you may disconnect from one wifi hub to another which can cause your web app session to drop.
• It's a good idea to clear the cache on your browser once a month or so. Cached pages may retain old versions of app pages and result in funky display or unexpected errors. 

From: Salisbury University, 2018 Blog Post

Gmail has a new look

You may have noticed that Gmail has a new look. Google let users change to this new look starting early this fall and have now made this look standard for all users. I know change can be hard but there are some nice features to take a look at:

• Postpone or “snooze” emails to a future date or time that’s more convenient. Messages that you snooze will be put in the snooze folder and reappear in your inbox at the time you selected.

• Hover over messages in your inbox and click an icon to quickly archive, delete, mark as read or unread, or snooze messages.

• Quickly respond to emails using Smart Reply — phrases that appear as potential replies based on the message you received. Phrases will appear at the bottom of the email. Such as:

• Remind you to revisit old emails with a suggestion or “nudge” to reply or follow up.

• Change how spacious or compact you want your inbox view. Go to the setting gear and select “Display Density.” There are three different options:

• Use Google Calendar, Keep, and Tasks while in Gmail. These will appear on the right hand side of the screen by default.

• Another “Feature” we have had calls about at the help desk is when Gmail’s new look tries to collapse the left hand side bar. This can be turned off by simply clicking the three lines in the upper left hand corner.