About This Site

This site has been designed to assist and support the UAMS community during the implementation of a new email and communications system, FirstClass, which will replace the current Exchange email system. Planning and training has already begun for the rollout of this new product to our campus. Users should check this site regularly for pertinent information related to this transition, including announcements, training and instruction resources, implementation schedules, frequently asked questions (routinely revised), and related links to other FirstClass resources.

Users can also submit questions to Information Technology (IT), identify specific individuals in IT to contact regarding issues, questions or concerns related to this project. We hope you find this site useful. If you have suggestions for additional features or changes you feel would be helpful, please submit them to our FirstClass Project Planning Team at mailcomments@uams.edu
 
 
Why change to FirstClass from Exchange?

• Secure Communications. With 128 bit encryption, FirstClass will allow all UAMS the assurance of secured internal communications; a feature that is not supported by Exchange.

• Similarly, FirstClass offers better protection from worms and viruses that have caused more and more disruptions to communications on our campus in recent months. Hundreds of infected computers and files, followed by thousands of man-hours spent repairing the damage caused by these intrusions has led to the clear need for greater immunity to external attacks on our information infrastructure.

• Device independence of FirstClass means that all UAMS users will have easier access to their accounts, using a FirstClass client on any UAMS computer; the ability to download a FirstClass client on any home computer; and improved web access and interface combine to provide our users universal access to communication tools.

• Multi-platform compatibility will also allow faculty and staff using Macintosh, Unix unimpeded access to full communications services.

• Less down time. Thoughtful system design by FirstClass at the administrative level means that that servers are brought down for maintenance and service. This feature, plus a very stable environment results in almost no down time for users.

• Unified Messaging. Not only does FirstClass offer email, calendaring, conferencing, chat, and personal address books (contact lists in Exchange), but also unified messaging service which integrates text, voice and fax communications.

• Less cost. Over a period of five years, UAMS will save $500,000 by purchasing a license for FirstClass over the current Exchange system.

• Simpler administration. The manpower to maintain FirstClass (after implementation), will require 2.0 - 3.0 fewer FTEs.

• Potential for development. Adding future functionality such as secure document delivery (encryption of email and attached documents to any other email account, anywhere in the world), and Rapid Application Development (RAD) directories will be easier to design and incorporate into a FirstClass communications environment.

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