Technical Infrastructure

The CHE servers, which house all desktops and related technologies, are operational 99.93% of the time. In 2004, we experienced only 6.1 hours of downtime. We are committed to the evergreening of our hardware to ensure our top-quality systems are consistently reliable; we also employ the latest software and security tools available. Servers are monitored 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.

Network security is of prime importance to CHE. Because desktops can integrate medical records or other potentially private information repositories, it is critical that our systems are as secure as technology and human activity can make them. Our systems meet or exceed industry security standards.

All CHE staff members undergo yearly training or review for Alberta's Health Information Act (HIA). This is done voluntarily to ensure all our staff members are aware of information privacy and security considerations. New staff are required to take this training upon hire. Additionally, CHE has and enforces internal policies around email use, password complexity, access to confidential files, and more.

The CHE Help Desk provides user support via email and telephone. End users with issues ranging from "I forgot my password" to "I work in a tightly secured network environment. Can I safely install and use the desktop?" are provided with timely, professional assistance.

VIVIDESK™ has a proven track record for reliable operation in most computer environments. It works seamlessly on most Windows and newer Macintosh operating systems. Each desktop has a privacy and confidentiality statement, and individual consent is obtained from users in the learning and research areas.

Annual Progress Reports