Information & Communication Technology (ICT) Department at IIMA

The Information & Communication Technology (ICT) Department at IIMA is responsible for managing, maintaining, and advancing the institute's ICT infrastructure, including the campus network, data center, servers, storage, cloud infrastructure, software, telephony, and endpoint devices. The Computer Services Committee (CSC) formulates IT policies and oversees the Computer Center (CC), also known as the ICT department. ICT operations are managed by a skilled team of IT specialists, managers, and technical personnel, ensuring seamless service and innovation.

 

ICT Vision and Objectives

The ICT department is dedicated to delivering high availability, scalability, mobility, security, and performance, with a focus on reducing the total cost of ownership (TCO) and simplifying management. Our goal is to create a digitally intelligent campus with secure, anytime- anywhere access to data and applications, supported by cutting-edge security and access controls. By leveraging the latest tools and technologies, we ensure optimal utilization of all campus resources.

 

ISO/IEC 27001:2022 & ISO/IEC 27701:2019 Certified

We are proud to share that the Information and Communication Technology (ICT) Department at IIM Ahmedabad has been officially certified for ISO/IEC 27001:2022 – Information Security Management System (ISMS) and ISO/IEC 27701:2019 – Privacy Information Management System (PIMS). This dual certification reflects our strong commitment to global best practices in managing information security and personal data protection.

The scope of certification includes services of the ICT Department along with the associated support functions of Finance, Human Resources, Legal, and Administration. These certifications were awarded by the Centre of Assessments for Excellence (COAE) and accredited by the United Accreditation Foundation (UAF) – a recognized member of the International Accreditation Forum (IAF).

IIM Ahmedabad is the first among all Indian Institutes of Management (IIMs) to achieve certification under both ISO/IEC 27001 and 27701, setting a significant milestone in digital governance and data privacy in Indian higher education.

 

Data Center Infrastructure

IIMA hosts a state-of-the-art Tier-2 Data Center facility by APC Schneider, supporting key academic and administrative applications including ERP (SAP), LMS (Moodle), the IIMA website, and MOOCs, alongside our robust computing, networking, and telecom infrastructure.

 

Hyper-Converged Infrastructure (HCI)

The ICT department has adopted Hyper-Converged Infrastructure (HCI) on HP servers, using VMware's VSAN technology and Veeam for backups. This setup provides a simplified,scalable, and efficient data center environment, enabling high availability for all critical applications and services.

 

Network Infrastructure

IIMA’s network spans both the main and new campus buildings via a Gigabit Ethernet- Switched network. A recent upgrade to single-mode fiber enables backbone speeds of 10Gbps, 40Gbps, and 100Gbps across three architectural layers: Access, Distribution, and Core. Our network employs Virtual LAN (VLAN) for enhanced security and Wi-Fi 6 technology (802.11ax), supporting speeds of up to 3Gbps with over 1500 wireless access points and 200 network switches. For end-user security compliance and authentication, Cisco ISE and Cisco Prime manage wired and wireless device access. Our perimeter is secured by a Fortinet Next-Generation Firewall with automated endpoint and server protection via security patches, updates, and antivirus.

 

Internet Connectivity and Redundancy

IIMA’s internet capacity is supported by 1 Gbps + 1 Gbps through two ISPs in a ping topology, complemented by an additional 1 Gbps connection from the National Knowledge Network (NKN), providing a total of 3 Gbps. Multiple ISPs and on-demand bandwidth scaling ensure redundancy and uninterrupted service for the campus community.

 

High-Performance Computing (HPC) Lab

The HPC Lab at IIMA supports data-intensive academic and research activities. The lab is equipped with 10 CPU servers (Intel Xeon processors) and 2 GPU servers (AMD EPYC processors with NVIDIA Tesla T4 GPUs), offering 200 TB of storage. Users can access specialized CPU and GPU resources tailored to AI/ML and data analytics tasks through an automated reservation and booking portal.

 

IP Telephony and Unified Communications

IIMA employs a Unified Communications system from Avaya, integrating chat, voice, video, and web services via IP telephony with SIP Trunking from Vodafone. This setup simplifies communications by providing users with a single, unified interface for various channels.

 

Cloud Services and Disaster Recovery

The ICT department uses a hybrid cloud model to host key applications, enhancing scalability and reliability. The cloud infrastructure includes AWS-hosted solutions such as the BC-DC Portal, IIMA Website, and the IIMA eLearning Portal (Online@IIMA). A cloud-based Disaster Recovery Site supports business continuity for SAP and non-SAP applications, ensuring robust data protection and compliance.

 

Smart Classrooms and AV Facilities
IIMA’s classrooms are equipped with advanced AV and IT facilities to create an immersive and effective learning environment. The New Academic Block (NAB-2) and JSW School of Public Policy include state-of-the-art AV setups with hybrid system capabilities, providing flexible learning spaces for academic excellence.

 

Online@IIMA eLearning Platform

The Online@IIMA portal consolidates all online programs, offering certification courses that prepare professionals for evolving industry demands. Built on OpenedX, the platform supports synchronous and asynchronous learning, aligned with IIMA's vision of a comprehensive and secure MOOC platform.

 

Learning Management Systems (LMS)

IIMA uses Moodle LMS, which is currently being upgraded to version 4.4, for managing training courses and educational programs. The LMS integrates with Zoom for virtual classrooms, providing a cohesive platform for study material distribution, assignments, discussions, and assessments. The Media Portal allows students to access recorded lectures securely, facilitating flexible learning.

 

Academic Software and Intranet Portals

The ICT team has developed several academic and administrative applications using open- source technology, mainly on the LAMP framework. Over 25 academic software applications are available, including a self-study portal for foreign languages, supporting the Institute's educational and research missions. Additionally, IIMA Intranet and eSAMPARK portals streamline academic and administrative tasks.

 

Blockchain-based Digital Certificate Management

IIMA has implemented blockchain technology for digital certificate management, enabling secure, tamper-proof verification for 23,500+ certificates issued to ExEd program participants. This blockchain solution ensures authenticity, streamlines the verification process, and supports on-demand certificate issuance.

 

IT Help Desk

The centralized IT Help Desk at IIMA operates under a hybrid IT services model aligned with the ITIL framework. The department manages essential support functions in-house and outsources non-critical services, with SLA-driven support contracts ensuring prompt resolution of IT issues.

 

Cyber and IT Security Measures

IIMA prioritizes IT security through regular VAPT (Vulnerability Assessment and Penetration Testing) and security audits. A backup network site is being established to enhance disaster recovery and ensure continuity in case of network outages, allowing the IIMA community to maintain uninterrupted operations.

 

CyberCell@IIMA

The CyberCell@IIMA, part of the ICT department, manages a range of cybersecurity-related responsibilities, including routine vulnerability assessments, incident response, and cybersecurity training. The CyberCell ensures compliance with cybersecurity regulations and fosters a culture of security awareness across the institute.

 

Focus on IIMA Community User Experience

The infrastructure and services described reflect a strong focus on enhancing user experience across various aspects. Here’s how user experience is prioritized:

1. High Availability and Reliability:

• The ICT department's infrastructure, including hyper-converged architecture and redundant internet capacity (1 Gbps + 1 Gbps with an additional 1 Gbps from NKN), ensures that users experience minimal downtime and reliable access to resources, which is critical for a seamless user experience.

2. High-Speed Connectivity and Network Access:

• Upgrades to Wi-Fi 6 technology (up to 3 Gbps) and a 10Gbps, 40Gbps, and 100Gbps backbone provide users with high-speed, low-latency access to resources from anywhere on campus.
• Over 1500 wireless access points and 200 network switches throughout the campus ensure comprehensive, fast, and stable connectivity, supporting a smooth user experience even during peak usage times.

3. Enhanced Learning Environments:

• Smart Classrooms and advanced AV facilities enable interactive learning experiences with high-quality video, audio, and collaborative tools. The integration of hybrid systems allows students to participate in classes flexibly, whether on-campus or remotely.
• The Online@IIMA eLearning platform with Open edX and Moodle LMS (upgraded to version 4.4) provides a modern digital learning environment, allowing students and professionals to access learning materials and participate in interactive sessions seamlessly.

4. IT Help Desk and Support Services:

• A centralized IT Help Desk ensures that end-users have rapid support for IT- related issues, improving response times and satisfaction.
• SLA-driven support contracts and an ITIL-aligned approach enable efficient prioritization of critical issues, enhancing overall user support.

5. Enhanced Security Measures:

• User authentication and security compliance are managed by Cisco ISE, with Cisco Prime and Fortinet firewalls ensuring that network security does not impede user access or experience.
• CyberCell@IIMA conducts regular training and awareness programs for the community, empowering users with the knowledge to securely and confidently use the technology available to them.

6. User-Centric Design of Online Services:

• The ICT department develops and supports custom applications and portals (e.g., IIMA Intranet and eSAMPARK) with the aim of streamlining administrative and academic processes, improving accessibility, and reducing effort for students, faculty, and staff.
• The HPC Lab’s automated booking system allows users to view real-time resource availability and request access efficiently, minimizing delays and optimizing the user experience.

7. Scalability and On-Demand Resources:

• With scalable cloud services and bandwidth, IIMA can adjust to spikes in demand during peak periods (such as admissions and result announcements), ensuring a stable experience even under heavy load.
• The on-demand increase in internet bandwidth supports user demand fluctuations, ensuring consistent service quality during high-traffic events.

By focusing on reliable access, seamless connectivity, user-friendly digital platforms, and robust support, the ICT infrastructure at IIMA is strategically designed to enhance user experience across its academic and administrative ecosystem.