MurdochNet Policy - Glossary of MurdochNet Terminology

A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z

A

Absolute URL

An Absolute URL, is a unique string of characters that includes details such as access method, computer host, directory and filename information. URLs for HTML documents on the Web begin with the access method http and end with either a forward slash /, or a filename extension, eg .html. A Server may also be configured to serve documents in formats other than HTML, eg Word, RTF, with the filename extension .doc and .rtf, and also to serve documents generated by programs.

Access Restriction

Access restriction implies that not all users are able to retrieve a resource. There may be different levels of access (eg. all users of computers on the Murdoch University Network) and there may be different methods used to implement access restriction (eg. use of the Murdoch Authentication & Identification System (MAIS)). Other methods of access restriction include: use of a configuration file at the directory level to restrict access to users of computers on the Murdoch University Network or to selected IP addresses. A database of user accounts may be associated with a Web Server and require users to enter a login and password. Where the MAIS is used to identify and authenticate users prior to access to restricted information resource or service, a login screen prompts users to enter a Murdoch Username and Murdoch Password. Some systems at Murdoch may use their own login screen but still authenticate users by referring to the MAIS database. Where access restrictions apply, a hand icon is often used to alert users to restrictions in place.

Accessibility

Accessibility means ensuring that Content is accessible, ie. ensuring that Content can be navigated and read by everyone, regardless of location, experience, or the type of computer technology used. Accessibility is most commonly discussed in relation to people with disabilities, because this group are most likely to be disadvantaged if the principles of accessible Web design are not implemented. Failure to follow these principles can make it difficult or impossible for people with disabilities to access Content. Creating accessible Content should be an integral part of the Web design philosophy, and accessibility features should be incorporated into all aspects of the design process. Testing for accessibility should also be incorporated into any and all user testing regimes, and should never be seen as an isolated event that can occur after other user testing has taken place. Designing for accessibility is thus as much a strategic issue as a purely technical one.

Ensuring that Content is accessible is required, where it can reasonably be provided, by the Disability Discrimination Act. This requirement applies to any individual or organisation developing a Web page in Australia, or placing or maintaining a Web page on an Australian server. This includes pages developed or maintained for purposes relating to employment; education; provision of services including professional services, banking, insurance or financial services, entertainment or recreation, telecommunications services, public transport services, or government services; sale or rental of real estate; sport; activities of voluntary associations; or administration of Commonwealth laws or programs.

Advertising

Advertising is the nonpersonal communication of information, usually paid for, and usually persuasive in nature, about products, services or ideas by identified sponsors through the various media.

Affiliated Web Server

An Affiliated Web Server is a Web Server accessible via an approved alternate domain name. An Affiliated Web Server has an entry in the Server Registration System and where the Server is run on a computer on the Murdoch University Network, an associated entry in the University's Domain Name Server (DNS). A listing of Affiliated Web Servers indicates the Servers on which Home Pages of organisation units and resource areas are hosted.

Alias

A naming convention has been applied to Web Servers at Murdoch University. This convention uses the assignment of aliases in a preferred format. For organisation units or resource areas the format is www.orgunitname.murdoch.edu.au. The name of the organisation unit or resource area therefore appears to be a sub-domain of the murdoch.edu.au domain. For functions, services, application systems and publications, aliases assigned use a preferred format of title.murdoch.edu.au. The Web Server aliases associated with computer hosts have been entered into the Domain Name Server (DNS). Aliases using the previous naming convention of wwworgunitname.murdoch.edu.au and wwwtitle.murdoch.edu.au are still used.

ALT Text

ALT text is optional text used as an alternative to the display of an image and is particularly important for users with text-based browsers, for users who turn off the downloading of inline images and for users with disabilities who make use of specialised software whilst using the Internet. Alternate text should be provided whenever the functionality of a document will be effected by the absence of an image. e.g. <IMG SRC="triangle.gif" ALT="Warning">

Appropriate Content

Appropriate Content means Content that supports the teaching, learning, research, administrative, public relations, community outreach, and student support objectives of the University.

Associated Content

Associated Content is MurdochNet Content that has not been commissioned by Murdoch University, but is relevant to the information needs of the Murdoch community. This Content has been provided by an organisation unit or resource area of the University, or by an individual, or by a group of individuals recognised as being associated with the University. Such Content is generally made accessible via MurdochNet through links created to it from within University Content. Associated Content includes, but is not limited to, Personal Web Pages, Home Pages of clubs and societies affiliated with the Murdoch University Guild of Students, and organisations recognised as being associated with Murdoch University. It also includes material produced by students in relation to teaching and learning activities at Murdoch University.

Associated Content Subcategories

Associated Content is classified using the following subcategories. These subcategories are used to determine the degree to which the standards, guidelines and conventions for the preparation of Content should be applied.

M	Material provided by organisations recognised as being associated with Murdoch University (eg. Cooperative Research Centres, Inter-Institutional Research Centres, Consortia) and Murdoch sponsored projects undertaken by organisational units, resource areas, or Murdoch staff or students.
N	Material provided by the Murdoch University Guild of Students, or by student clubs and societies affiliated with the Guild of Students, or student clubs and societies, or alumni chapters that are recognised as being associated with Murdoch University.
O	Material provided by individuals (staff, students and other persons) who are formally affiliated with, or recognised as being associated with, Murdoch University. This material shall only include that which is related to an individual's responsibilities and activities in the areas of teaching, learning, research, or administration at Murdoch University.
P	Material prepared or produced by Murdoch University students in relation to teaching, learning, or research activities for a unit in which they are enrolled at Murdoch at the time of publication. This material may include student publications (eg. electronic journals, newsletters, news) prepared or produced as activities in a unit of study.

B

Backup Guidelines for Computers Used to Run Web Servers

A set of guidelines that includes recommended best practice for maintaining appropriate backup of

1. the Web Server software
2. any software applications on the computer that use a Web Server
3. Content hosted by a Web Server

The guidelines refer to the use of backup methodologies, eg. software solutions and use of tapes.

C

Central MurdochNet Servers

Central MurdochNet Servers are centrally-managed Servers, ie. the computer hardware and operating system, and the Web Server software, applications, programs, tools and databases hosted on those computers, are managed by designated staff within the Office of Information Technology Services. Central MurdochNet Servers utilise a Disaster Recovery and Service Continuity Strategy to maximise availability and reliability. Central MurdochNet Servers include the MurdochNet Host (www.murdoch.edu.au) and the Server used for Oracle applications (wwwforms.murdoch.edu.au).

Central Repository

A central repository or 'centre' is maintained by the University as part of the requirement to manage copyright material selected for teaching, learning and research purposes and copied to a computer on the Murdoch University Network. This repository is a component of an Electronic Documents Rights Management System.

Code of Conduct

The MurdochNet Policy includes a Code of Conduct for persons running Web Servers or providing Content to be hosted on or accessed by Web Servers. A link to the Code of Conduct is included in both the University's Copyright & Disclaimer Notice and the Disclaimer Notice. A link to the appropriate notice is provided as part of the Metadata that accompanies all University Content and Associated Content in HTML format. This Code of Conduct refers to the Conditions of Use of Computing and Networking Facilities, a section of the IT Security Policy.

Content

Content means all forms of information, and without limitation includes: text, formatted text such as HTML pages, interactive and/or dynamic Web pages (such as those generated from data files and databases), images, animation, video and sound files. It may also include software, Web-based output from software applications and Web-based input (ie. transactions).

Content Categories

Content Categories have been established for classifying MurdochNet Content within the three categories of University Content, Associated Content and Foreign Content. Each Category is further classified into Subcategories.

Content Custodian

Content Custodian means a position with responsibility for managing and authorising Content, including its presentation and maintenance and the accuracy and currency of information within such Content. Content may be provided by an organisation unit or resource area, or it may be a discrete publication, or it may be a software application with a Web interface. The responsibilities of a Content Custodian are listed in the MurdochNet Policy as Section 5.7.5.3.

Content Provider

Content Provider means an individual authorised by a Content Custodian to prepare, produce, maintain and/or publish Content for MurdochNet. This Content may be provided by an organisation unit or resource area, or it may be a discrete publication. The responsibilities of a Content Provider are listed in the MurdochNet Policy as Section 4.9.1. and Section 5.7.5.4.

Content Subcategories

Content Subcategories have been established for further classifying MurdochNet Content within the three categories of University Content, Associated Content and Foreign Content. Each subcategory defines the Metadata to accompany material, including META tags, for material in HTML format, and the details in a document information footer presented either as a footer or as a Metadata popup. The Guidelines for Metadata to Accompany MurdochNet Content refer to these Content Subcategories to define the degree to which the guidelines should be applied.

Content Subcategories are also used to define the degree to which other guidelines, such as Guidelines for MurdochNet Navigation and Corporate Style Guidelines for MurdochNet, apply.

Copyright & Disclaimer Notice

A link to Murdoch University's Copyright & Disclaimer Notice is provided as part of the metadata that accompanies all University Content in HTML format made accessible via MurdochNet. This Notice is maintained on the MurdochNet Host and is authorised by the University's Secretary.

Core Content

In 1996, as part of the CWIS Project, material was identified that was considered to be Core Content for the University and defined by the List of Core Content for the CWIS. This listing included official University publications, such as the Handbook, and material related to the management of the University, such as the Minutes of Academic Council.

Corporate Style Guidelines for MurdochNet

A set of guidelines that includes the use of the University's logo, University colours and fonts. The guidelines apply to the preparation of Content in HTML and related formats, including dynamically generated Content.

The Content Subcategories for University Content, Associated Content and Foreign Content, are used to determine the degree to which these guidelines should be applied.

Cover Page

A Cover Page is the initial document of a Document Set. The set, which should include a table of contents and may also include an index, or indexes, is accompanied by a navigation bar specific to the document set. The navigation bar includes a link to the Cover Page.

CRICOS Provider Code

All organisation units or resource areas that provide access to Content that is categorised as public relations or marketing material and to Content categorised as information to prospective students about courses provided by Murdoch University, are required to display the University's CRICOS Provider Code and the University's name.

The CRICOS Provider Code should be a link to the Murdoch entry maintained in the Commonwealth Register of Institutions & Courses for Overseas Students (CRICOS).

CWIS

A Campus-Wide Information Service

The acronym CWIS was used at Murdoch University between 1994 and 2001 to describe Murdoch University's Campus-Wide Information Service. The CWIS began informally in April 1994 with a Home Page hosted on the Library's Web Server. It was formalised as Objective B.7 of the 1995 Murdoch University Information Technology Strategic Plan. A Strategic Project, under the control of a CWIS Project Steering Committee, was established in July 1995 to meet target B.7.1.1 of that IT Strategic Plan to establish an initial CWIS. This project ended in August 1997. From January 2002, the term MurdochNet began to be used in lieu of CWIS, to refer to Murdoch University's Internet presence.

CWIS Coordinator

The CWIS Coordinator was a position with responsibility for the coordination of the CWIS on behalf of Murdoch University between the years 1996 and 2001. The responsibilities previously associated with this position are now associated with the role of MurdochNet Coordinator.

CWIS Home Page

Murdoch University's Home Page, was referred to as the CWIS Home Page from 1996 to 2001.

CWIS Host Server

The CWIS Host Server was the name previously used to refer to the Server assigned the alias www.murdoch.edu.au, hosting the CWIS Home Page and related top-level navigation pages. The Server is now referred to as the MurdochNet Host.

CWIS Policy - Version 1.0

Verson 1.0 of the CWIS Policy was prepared in 1996 by the CWIS Policy Sub-Committee of the Information Technology Policy Committee (disestablished, November, 1997). It was approved by Academic Council on January 29th, 1997 (Resolution 7/97).

CWIS Project (1995-1997)

A Strategic Project under the control of the CWIS Project Steering Committee, had the role of establishing and developing Murdoch University's Campus-Wide Information Service. Stage 1 of the Project commenced in July 1995 and ended on September 6th, 1996. Stage 2 of the Project ended on August 31st, 1997.

CWIS Style Guidelines

A set of Style Guidelines for use in the preparation of material made accessible via the CWIS were in use from 1996-2001. The Guidelines included:

• the use of the Copyright & Disclaimer Notice,
• Corporate Style requirements
• the use of Metadata to accompany material
• and the use of Document Categories for classifying University and Affiliated Content.

The above guidelines have been superseded. The MurdochNet Policy and its associated guidelines now cover:

• Murdoch Conventions for the Content Preparation - including the use of Content Categories and Subcategories, Disclaimers, Copyright Notices and Metadata
• Corporate Style Guidelines for MurdochNet
• Guidelines for Archiving MurdochNet Content
• Guidelines for Metadata to Accompany MurdochNet Content
• Guidelines for MurdochNet Navigation

D

Disaster Recovery & Service Continuity Strategy

Web Servers that host or provide access to strategic applications and strategic services of the University are required to be run with a Disaster Recovery & Service Continuity Strategy. When put into effect, eg. during a situation when the University's operations room for strategic computers is inoperable, then Web-based services to end-users should continue with minimal disruption. However, in the case of database-driven applications with a Web interface, this requires that the computers used to host those databases also put into effect a comparable Disaster Recovery & Service Continuity Strategy.

Disclaimer Notice

A link to Murdoch University's Disclaimer Notice is provided as part of the metadata that accompanies Associated Content and some categories of Foreign Content made accessible via MurdochNet. Material that is Associated Content includes, but is not limited to Personal Home Pages and Home Pages of clubs and societies, as well as institutions and organisations recognised as being associated with Murdoch University. Material that is Foreign Content includes transcripts of public speeches, articles in journals and publications of professional organisations or associations. This Notice is maintained on the MurdochNet Host.

Document Categories - SEE Content Subcategories

Document Information Footer

Where metadata that accompanies MurdochNet Content is displayed as a footer or a metadata popup, it is intended to assist end-users in the identification, location and retrieval of information resources as well contributing to the management of Content.

Document information footers include, but are not limited to, a statement of responsibility for the information contained in the Content, the date Content was last modified, details of the positions responsible for the Content, and if University Content in HTML format, a link to the University's Copyright & Disclaimer Notice. For all Content, the footer ends with a URL for the file which may be generated automatically by the Server.

Document Sets

A Document Set is a set of documents that consists of an initial document, or Cover Page, a table of contents and may also include an index, or indexes. Documents in the set include a specific navigation bar that links to the Cover Page and options such as Index, Contents, and if required, a Search.

A Content Subcategory is assigned to a Document Set, eg. official University management publication, and the Cover Page requires a document information footer that includes authorisation and expiry date for the document set. Other documents within the document set will require document information footer details if, for example, the expiry date or modification date differs, or the authorisation statement varies.

Domain

Domain means a group of computers and devices on a network that are administered as a unit with common rules and procedures. Within the Internet, domains are defined by the IP address. All devices sharing a common part of the IP address are said to be in the same domain.

Domain Name Server

Domain Name Server (DNS) means an Internet service that translates domain names into IP addresses. The Domain Name Server is used to maintain records of the Web Server aliases associated with computer hosts.

E

Electronic Document Rights Management System

An EDRMS shall include the processes and the software to manage copyright material. The system shall facilitate the display of the official Copyright warning notice, the implementation of authorised access with required levels of access, record keeping and usage statistics, as well as the management of copying, use, and removal of copyright material. The system may be implemented using a combination of central repositories (eg. The Library's Electronic Course Materials Service allows for copyright and media management) initially, and others that may be developed as required.

F

Foreign Content

Foreign Content is MurdochNet Content that has not been commissioned by Murdoch University, nor by an organisation or individual with a recognised association with the University. Such Content is generally made accessible via MurdochNet through links created to it from within University Content or Associated Content. Where Foreign Content is made available as part of an Internet Content Host (ICH) service provided by the University for another institution, or for an organisation, association, or conference, the service is authorised by means of a formal arrangement.

Foreign Content Subcategories

The following subcategories of Foreign Content include material selected as relevant to the information needs of the Murdoch University community.

Q	Material for use by the Murdoch University community that has been provided by an organisation with which the University has a formal contractual arrangement. Such material (eg. databases) may be copied to a computer on the Murdoch University Network.
R	Material for use by the Murdoch University community that has been selected for teaching, learning, research, or administrative purposes, including material provided with the permission of the copyright owner. Such material may be copied to a central repository assigned by the University for the purposes of managing the use of and access to copyright material within the requirements of the Copyright Act 1968.
S	Material made available as part of organised social, cultural, recreational and community education activities and events held by, held for, or held at Murdoch University. Such material (eg. transcripts of public speeches) may be copied to a computer on the Murdoch University Network.
T	Material that is recognised as sponsorship material (eg. logos) that has been authorised for use within University Content, or Associated Content.
U	Material that is recognised as commercial advertising (eg. logos) that has been authorised for use within University Content, or Associated Content.
V	Material made available as part of a publication (eg. an electronic journal) that an organisation unit or resource area of the University publishes or sponsors, where the copyright to such material is retained by the individual authors, or held by the editors of the publication. The material may include articles, conference proceedings, research reports.

The following subcategories of Foreign Content include material hosted on computers on the Murdoch University Network for other institutions, or for organisations, associations and conferences, where the University has agreed that the role of Internet Content Host, and the type of material hosted, is clearly related to, or supports the University's mission 'to extend knowledge, stimulate learning, and promote understanding, for the benefit of the community'. The hosting of such material requires the authorisation of a member of Senior Executive. Authorisation may require that Murdoch University staff or students are included in the membership of institutions, organisations, associations or conferences.

W

Material provided by professional organisations, associations or conferences. The material may be prepared or produced by a Murdoch University organisational unit, resource area, or staff member on behalf of an organisation, association or conference.

X

Material provided by educational institutions or organisations, including institutions that are Murdoch subsidiaries and organisations in which the University is a participant. The material may be prepared or produced by a Murdoch University organisational unit or resource area on behalf of another educational institution or organisation with which the University has a formal teaching arrangement or research collaboration.

FTP Server

FTP Server meanis a software application run on a computer host, using the File Transfer Protocol. An FTP Server may be used to host computer files. Web browsers interact with FTP Servers and may be used to retrieve computer files (ie. downloading). Links to files hosted on FTP Servers may be included in MurdochNet Content, which therefore means that files hosted on FTP Servers are also to be considered as MurdochNet Content.

G

Guidelines for Archiving Accompany MurdochNet Content

A set of guidelines on the archiving requirements for MurdochNet Content provides indicators to assist in the identification of Content that requires archiving in accord with the University's Retention & Disposal Schedules. The archiving requirements specify when archival material for MurdochNet Content should be maintained by the organisation area or resource unit in its original format, ie. accessible online. The archiving requirements also specify when archival material should be provided to the Records Management & Archives Section as printed copies of HTML pages.

The guidelines use the Content Subcategories for University Content, Associated Content and Foreign Content to determine the degree to which these guidelines should be applied.

Guidelines for Hosting MurdochNet Content on Computers Not on the Murdoch University Network

A set of guidelines on the requirements to be met where an organisation unit or resource area wishes to host MurdochNet Content on a Server that is not run on a computer on the Murdoch University Network.

Guidelines for Metadata to Accompany MurdochNet Content

A set of guidelines on the use of metadata in conjunction with MurdochNet Content. Metadata includes the use of META tags based on the Dublin Core set of metadata elements and Murdoch specific metadata elements such as Content subcategory and access level. The guidelines apply to the preparation of Content in HTML format, including dynamically generated Content. The guidelines also refer to the use of META tags in conjunction with files that are not in HTML format, specifically to the use of the Access tag for the purposes of implementing access restriction.

The guidelines use the Content Subcategories for University Content, Associated Content and Foreign Content to determine the degree to which these guidelines should be applied.

Guidelines for MurdochNet Navigation

These guidelines are a set of principles, including:

1. the use of required links, eg. University Home Page, Search, Index (ie. Murdoch A to Z)
2. the use of recommended links, eg. Home, Division, School, Office
3. the provision of site maps

The guidelines use the Content Subcategories for University Content, Associated Content and Foreign Content to determine the degree to which these guidelines should be applied.

H

Home Page

A Home Page is a document in HTML format displayed as the initial document or page when a Web browser establishes a connection with a Web Server. Murdoch University's Home Page is accessible via the URL http://www.murdoch.edu.au/, or, in the case of the Secure Server, the URL https://www.murdoch.edu.au/.

In the Murdoch context, a Home Page is the name given to the document that offers the initial entry via the Internet to information about the University or about a Division, School or Office, Section of an Office, or a Unit, such as a Research Centre of the University. Home Pages are also available for affiliated research centres and institutes, and for University application systems and services that utilise a Web-based interface. Organisations affiliated with the University, such as Alumni, clubs and societies also have Home Pages.

Some MurdochNet Servers, including the MurdochNet Host, are used to host a number of Home Pages. A number of Offices and sections of the University, maintain a Web site with a Home Page and related material on the MurdochNet Host. Refer to the listing of Web Servers at Murdoch, or the Murdoch A-Z index to locate Home Pages.

HTML

Hypertext Markup Language (HTML) means the authoring language used to create documents accessed via the World Wide Web. HTML defines the structure and layout of a documents accessible via the World Wide Web by using a variety of tags and attributes. A document may contain textual content, images, links to other documents (and possibly other applications) as well as formatting instructions for display on a screen.

I

Inappropriate Content

Inappropriate Content is Content that could be reasonably considered to be:

• racist
• sexist
• abusive or threatening
• knowingly and maliciously untrue
• infringing copyright
• pornographic or obscene
• objectionable material
• confidential beyond the level of access restriction assigned to the type of material
• intended for unauthorised commercial gain
• unauthorised sponsorship material
• unauthorised advertising material
• unauthorised Foreign Content, or
• subject to any other constraints or restrictions imposed by State or Federal legislation.

Inappropriate Links

All links within MurdochNet Content and links to Internet-accessible Content that do not support the University's teaching, learning, research, administration, public relations, community outreach, and student support objectives are considered to be Inappropriate Links. Any links to Content that could reasonably be considered to be Inappropriate Content are also Inappropriate Links.

Individual Web Page

A Web page providing information about an individual formally affiliated with Murdoch University. The material is maintained by an organisation unit or resource area about an individual employed by or for that unit.

Individual Web Server

An Individidual Web Server is a MurdochNet Server run by an individual on a computer provided by an organisation unit or resource area for that individual's own use. A registration request shall be submitted by the individual (ie. staff, student, or other person formally affiliated with, or recognised as being associated with, Murdoch University) and approved before they run an Individual Web Server. Authorisation shall also be required before an Individual Web Server is used to perform the role of an Internet Content Host.

Restrictions apply to aliases assigned to Individual Web Servers, for example, they may not use Murdoch sub-domains or alternate domain names.

An individual shall only use an Individual Web Server to host or provide access to Content related to their responsibilities and activities in the areas of teaching, learning, research, or administration at Murdoch University.

The Content hosted on an Individual Web Server shall only include Content that falls within the University Content Categories F, G, H and K; Associated Content Categories O and P; and Foreign Content Categories R, V and W, as defined in Section 2.2.2.1. of the MurdochNet Policy. If an Individual Web Server is used to host Foreign Content that is copied copyright material (ie. Content Category R), such hosting shall be in compliance with any relevant University policies, legislation, statutes, regulations and the Copyright Act 1968.

Information Technology Policy and Planning Committee (ITPPC)

Information Technology Planning and Policy Committee was a sub-committee of Academic Council. It was charged with recommending to that body, information technology policy together with a strategic plan for the implementation of that policy. The committee was dis-established in November, 1997.

Information Technology Steering Committee (ITSC)

The Information Technology Steering Committee coordinates the development of strategic IT projects to ensure they adhere to prioritites, objectives and budgets and assesses proposals for new projects and recommends to the Vice-Chancellor on priorities and funding.

Internet

The worldwide network of computer networks offering access to information resources and services.

Internet Accessible Subnet

Internet Accessible Subnet (IAS) means a range of IP addresses on the Murdoch University Network that share a common component and that are designated for use with registered Servers that are authorised to perform the role of Internet Content Host.

Internet Content Host

Internet Content Host (ICH) means any Server that hosts or provides access to Internet accessible Content. These Servers may include FTP Servers, Telnet Servers and Web Servers.

Internet Content Hosting Service

Internet Content Hosting Service means a service that uses an ICH to provide access to Content where such Content is not the responsibility of the organisation providing the service.

IP Address

IP address means a string of characters used to identify a location within a network of computers that are using the TCP/IP protocol to communicate. The string contains two pieces of information: - the network portion, known as the IP network address, and the local portion, known as the local address. Each IP address identifies a specific location within the Internet, specifically to a network interface on a given network or sub network.

J

K

L

Links

Within the context of the World Wide Web, link means a reference within a Web document to another document. Links are constructed using Uniform Resource Locators (a type of Uniform Resource Indicator) and usually include a link title or image which displays as a hyperlink as indicated by a visual cue such as underlined text or a hand icon over text or image when a mouse is moved over the link, with the link URL displaying in the status bar of a Web browser. When a Web browser is used to select a link, the Web browser then retrieves and displays the referenced document which may be in HTML or other formats, eg. PDF. A computer may require the setup of additional software or plug-ins to be able to retrieve and display files in various formats that are offered as links in Web documents.

M

MAIS

The Murdoch Authentication & Identification System, or MAIS as it is usually referred to, is a system used by Murdoch University to identify and authenticate members of the University community who wish to obtain access to restricted functions and information services via MurdochNet. The MAIS uses a login combination of Murdoch Username (ie. Staff Number, Student Number, or Person Number) and Murdoch Password for identifying and authenticating users. It also enables the creation of "authorities" associated with a person or position to grant specific permissions to perform restricted functions (eg. change another person's password). Users are prompted at a MAIS login screen to enter their Murdoch Username and Murdoch Password. To display a MAIS login screen, a Web browser needs to be forms-compliant and supports the security feature (ie. able to connect to a Secure Server). Other features such as 'cookies' need to be enabled. Problems with MAIS login may be related to the version or type of Web browser software, or the Proxy Server setup of a Web browser; or to the Content that is being restricted not being hosted on a Secure Server (SSL).

MAIS PIN [ SEE Murdoch Password ]

META Tags

META tags included in the Head of documents in HTML format are used to provide Metadata to accompany material accessible via MurdochNet. The META Tags currently in use at Murdoch include elements from the Dublin Core Metadata Element Set as well as Murdoch specific elements. The META tags include details such as Content Subcategory, Access level and Access Restriction Requirements, Expiry Date, Publisher, Keywords and Description.

Metadata

Metadata means a structured set of elements used to describe an information resource and its intellectual property rights. The elements used should assist in the identification, location and retrieval of information resources by end-users. The use of metadata should facilitate the management of Content by persons assigned to roles that have responsibility for MurdochNet Content.

Metadata may be displayed as document information footers, or, separately as a metadata popup window.

Murdoch Authentication & Identification System [ SEE MAIS ]

Murdoch Conventions for Content Preparation

A set of conventions to be followed in the preparation of Content for MurdochNet that includes:

1. Content Category
2. Accessibility
3. Security of Content
4. Access Level
5. Responsibility
6. Sponsorship & Advertising
7. Dates
8. Copyright
9. Disclaimer
10. Privacy
11. CRICOS Provider Code
12. Metadata

Murdoch Password

The Murdoch Password (previously referred to as the MAIS PIN), is issued to staff, students and other persons formally affiliated with the University. It is intended to be used in conjunction with a Murdoch Username (ie. a Staff Number, a Student Number or a Person Number), when a Web browser displays a login screen. The Murdoch Password is also reticulated for use with other systems and services such as WebCT and divisional computer laboratories.

Murdoch University Community

End-users who have access to the Internet using Murdoch University computing and network facilities.

Murdoch University Network

Murdoch University Network means a computer network that uses a range of IP addresses registered to Murdoch University for computers and other network devices that provide access to the Internet. This Network is available for use by staff and students at Murdoch University with authorised accounts on University computers and is accessible from computers on the campuses and via remote access by dialup.

Murdoch Username

The Murdoch Username (ie. Staff Number, a Student Number or a Person Number) is issued to staff, students and other persons formally affiliated with the University. It is intended to be used in conjunction with a Murdoch Password when a Web browser displays a login screen.

MurdochNet

MurdochNet is the name given to a collection of information resources and services, accessible via Internet protocols, providing online, interactive information to the Murdoch University community and the community at large. The boundary of MurdochNet is determined by the type of Servers on which Content is physically hosted, the type of Content and the type of Links included in that Content.

MurdochNet Administrator

MurdochNet Administrator means a role with responsibility for the management of Servers, Content and Links for MurdochNet. The Office of Information Technology Services is responsible for assigning a person the role of MurdochNet Administrator. The responsibilities of the MurdochNet Administrator are listed in the MurdochNet Policy as Section 4.9.9. and Section 5.7.5.11.

MurdochNet Content

MurdochNet Content is Content accessible via MurdochNet that has been provided by, provided for, or selected for use by the Murdoch University community.

For the purposes of management of MurdochNet Content, Content is categorised as:

• University Content
• Associated Content
• Foreign Content

To further classify Content, subcategories are used for each category. These subcategories are then used to determine the degree to which the standards, guidelines and conventions for the preparation of Content should be applied.

MurdochNet Coordinator

MurdochNet Coordinator means a role with responsibility for the management of Servers, Content and Links for MurdochNet. The Office of Information Technology Services is responsible for assigning a person the role of MurdochNet Coordinator. The responsibilities of the MurdochNet Coordinator are listed in the MurdochNet Policy as Section 4.9.10., Section 5.7.5.12. and Section 6.4.1.

MurdochNet Host

The MurdochNet Host is the centrally-managed MurdochNet Server assigned the alias www.murdoch.edu.au. It is used to host the University's Home Page, related top-level navigation pages, information pages and centrally-maintained indexes as well as providing access to selected applications, programs, tools and databases. The MurdochNet Host may also be used to host Content for organisation units, resource areas and affiliated institutions and organisations with a recognised association with the University. The Content development environment is managed by staff responsible for the administration of MurdochNet. As the University's primary Internet Content Host, the MurdochNet Host utilises a Disaster Recovery and Service Continuity Strategy to maximise availability and reliability.

MurdochNet Management Committee

Established in May 2001 to manage the University's Campus-Wide Information Service in response to Goal B "Increase Effective Utilisation of the World Wide Web" of the proposed IT Strategic Plan (2000-2002). This plan details a number of strategies and targets including B4.1.1.1, 'Establishment of a CWIS Management Committee'.

At its May 31st, 2001 meeting, the Committee agreed to use the term MurdochNet, rather than CWIS to refer to the range of services that encompass the University's Internet presence. The name of the Committee was changed to MurdochNet Management Committee in December, 2001.

From 2003, the Committee has reported to the ITMC

MurdochNet Server

A MurdochNet Server is a Web Server accessible via the domain murdoch.edu.au, or an approved sub-domain, with associated entries in the Server Registration System and the University's Domain Name Server (DNS) that use an assigned alias that complies with an agreed naming convention. A listing of MurdochNetServers indicates the Servers on which Home Pages of organisation units and resource areas are hosted.

MurdochNet Servers are managed by recognised Web Administrators.

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Naming Conventions

Agreed naming conventions as detailed in the MurdochNet Policy, are used at Murdoch for assigning aliases to Web Servers.

Non-Affiliated Web Server

Any Internet-accessible Web Server that has not been registered at Murdoch University as a MurdochNet Server or an Affiliated Web Server.

Non-Compliant Content

Content prepared or produced without regard to the Murdoch Conventions for Content Preparation included in the Content Management section of the MurdochNet Policy is referred to as Non-Compliant Content. Content that does not follow the Murdoch Conventions for Content Preparation listed in Section 5.4 of the MurdochNet Policy is considered to be Non-Compliant Content (eg. public relations material that does not display a CRICOS Provider Code).

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Personal Web Page

A Personal Web page is a page prepared by an individual, that they describe as their Home Page. The page may either be:

• hosted on an Individual Web Server at Murdoch
• or accessed via a MurdochNet Server or Affiliated Web Server from the individual's home directory area on the host computer.

A Personal Web Page may include personal and biographical details.

In the case of staff, the page may also offer a link to a page maintained for that individual on a MurdochNet Server or Affiliated Web Server by the organisation unit or resource area that employs the individual.

A Personal Web Page that is accessible via a MurdochNet Server (including an Individual Web Server) or via an Affiliated Web Server, shall include a link to the Disclaimer Notice maintained on the MurdochNet Host.

Personal Web Server [ See Individual Web Server ]

Privacy

A Murdoch Convention to be applied in the preparation of Content is the use of privacy statements to inform end-users of what information is gathered and what is done with the information gathered.

The Web Sites Privacy Notice is maintained on the MurdochNet Host. Any organisation unit or resource area that either links to this statement or provides a variant of this statement on their Web Server, is required to ensure that information they gather is maintained and used in the manner stated in the statement.

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Registered Links

Registered Links are selected links that are centrally maintained (ie. records for Resource Identifiers -Link titles, Link Image URLs, and Link URLs). Maintenance of Registered Links is coordinated by authorised staff responsible for the administration of MurdochNet.

Relative URLs

A Relative URL includes filename details for a file held in the same directory. For files hosted on the same Web Server but located in a different directory, the Relative URL includes the directory path and filename.

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Security Guidelines for Computers Used to Run Web Servers

A set of guidelines that includes recommended best practice for maintaining the security of

1. the computer (eg. the operating system) used to run a Web Server
2. the Web Server software
3. any software applications on the computer that use a Web Server
4. Content hosted by a Web Server

Secure Server

Secure Server means a Web Server that uses Secure Sockets Layer (SSL) technology to encrypt data during the transfer of data between a Web browser and a Server. Secure Servers have a digital certificate (or ID) which contains a public-private key pair that is associated with the name of the organisation, the name of the Server and its IP address.

Serial Publications

A Serial Publication is a type of Document Set where additional material is added at intervals, sometimes regularly, as in the case of a journal or newsletter. It consists of an initial document, or Cover Page, a table of contents and may also include an index, or indexes. Documents in the set include a specific navigation bar that has links to the Cover Page and options such as Index, Contents, and a Search.

Server

Server means a computer, or a software application that provides a specific kind of service to client software running on other computers. The term can refer to a particular piece of software, such as a Web Server, or to the computer on which the software is running. A single computer may have several different server software applications running on it, thus providing many different servers to clients on a network.

Server Registration System

The Server Registration System is a registration system used by authorised persons to register a Web Server, including details such as title, Web Server Alias and computer hostname.

Server Side Includes

A Server Side Include (SSI) is a facility available via a Server for including tagging within a HTML document that provides instructions to the Server to retrieve the contents of another HTML document held on that same Server and paste this into the intial document. The MurdochNet Host utilises Server Side Includes to offer navigation bars. When an end-user views the HTML source via their Web browser, the content of the Server Side Include will have been pasted into the document, thus what the end-user sees is not only the HTML tagging of the document, but also the tagging of one or more other documents.

Server Registration System

An application system used for the management of the Server registration process. Use of the system is restricted to authorised users.

Sponsorship

Sponsorship may be regarded as a 'partnership' between an organisation and another organisation or event in which the sponsor publicly endorses an activity and ties its reputation with that of the organisation or event being sponsored.

Statement of Responsibility

Details included in document information footer as part of the Metadata to accompany material accessible via MurdochNet. The statement of responsibility may be limited to the person responsible for the last modification of a file, or may include additional details such as document author or person responsible for authorising the accuracy and currency of information within Content, and the person initially responsible for the preparation of a document in HTML format. The details for document information footers are defined by the Content Subcategories used to classify MurdochNet Content.

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Uniform Resource Indicator (URI)

A Uniform Resource Indicator or URI is the generic term for all types of names and addresses that refer to objects accessible via the World Wide Web. A Uniform Resource Locator or URL is one kind of URI.

Uniform Resource Locator (URL)

Uniform Resource Locator ( URL) means the Internet address of a Web document or other Internet resource accessible via the World Wide Web. The first part of the address indicates what protocol is being used (eg. FTP, HTTP) and the second part specifies the IP address or the domain name where the resource is located and may also include a directory name and a filename.

URLs may be Absolute or Relative

University Content

University Content is MurdochNet Content provided by the University administration, or recognised Division, School or Office personnel (eg. Dean, Director, Executive Officer).

University Content Subcategories

University Content is classified using the following subcategories. These subcategories are used to determine the degree to which the standards, guidelines and conventions for the preparation of Content should be applied.

A	MurdochNet Administration - material associated with the management of MurdochNet, including guidelines for the management of Servers and the preparation of Content and technical information.
B	MurdochNet Navigation - material located on the MurdochNet Host that provides a means of navigation throughout MurdochNet (eg. Murdoch A to Z).
C	Official University Publications - material that represents the official University position in academic, administrative, research and other areas (eg. Principal Dates Calendar, Handbook, Legislation, Annual Report).
D	University Management - material used in the management of the University (eg. Agendas & Minutes, Policies, Policy & Procedures Manuals, Strategic and Research Management Plans, Timetables, Style Guide).
E	Public Relations Material - material and software applications prepared for the purpose of promoting the place of the University in the community and attracting prospective staff and students (eg. About Murdoch, Prospective Students).
F	Research Material - material and software applications, including research publications, produced as part of research carried out by Murdoch University staff and students (eg. Journal articles, technical reports, conference papers).
G	Teaching and Learning Material - material and software applications prepared for use in the teaching of official University Units of Study (eg. Unit materials).
H	Teaching, Learning & Research Support - material and software applications prepared for supporting teaching, learning and research activities at Murdoch University (eg. general menu and navigation pages) [Used for University Content that doesn't fit into other categories].
I	University Services & Facilities - material and software applications relating to support services and facilities available on, or for the campuses of Murdoch University (eg. Modems, Student Network, Quota, Student Village, MAIS, Library Catalogue, Inter-Library Loans, Parking, Bookshop, Disability support).
J	Staff Development & Training - material and software applications intended for use in staff development and the training of students at Murdoch University (eg. LITE, WebCT Training).
K	Employment/Consulting - material relating to (a) the offering of employment at Murdoch University, or intended for persons seeking employment at the University (eg. Positions Vacant); or (b) University consulting services as defined and approved under the University Consultancy Guidelines and Policy.
L	Individual - material provided by an organisation unit or resource area about an individual employed by or for that unit or area, or about a student who is currently enrolled in a course offered by Murdoch University.

University Home Page

Murdoch University's Home Page accessible via the Internet as the URL http://www.murdoch.edu.au/

University Application Systems

Application Systems acquired or developed by the University that utilise a World Wide Web interface for user interaction, including database entry and query, with HTML being generated on the fly.

eg. the Murdoch Authentication & Identification System (MAIS), the Academic Curriculum Vitae System.

User

Any user of a computer network with access to the Internet who connects to a MurdochNet Server at Murdoch University.

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Virtual Server

Virtual Server means a Web Server that shares the resources of a computer host that has been configured or setup using a Web Server software application. Many Virtual Servers may reside on the same computer host each using a different Server name and if required, a different sub-domain, or a different domain name. For example, the Web Server software used for the central MurdochNet Host www.murdoch.edu.au, is also used to provide a Virtual Server for the Office of Information Technology Services, ie. www.its.murdoch.edu.au.

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Web Administrator

Web Administrator means a role with responsibility for the operation and support of a Web Server and for Content hosted on that Server. An organisation unit or resource area that runs Web Server software on one or more computer hosts, shall be required to assign to one or more persons the role of Web Administrator. The responsibilities of a Web Administrator are listed in the MurdochNet Policy as Section 4.9.12. and Section 5.7.5.14.

A list of Web Administrators for registered Web Servers at Murdoch is available.

Web Liaison Officer

Web Liaison Officer means a role with responsibility for the management of Servers, Content and Links for MurdochNet. An organisation unit or resource area that has Content hosted on, or accessed by one or more Web Servers, shall be required to assign a person the role of Web Liaison Officer. The responsibilities of a Web Liaison Officer are listed in the MurdochNet Policy as Section 4.9.13., Section 5.7.5.15. and Section 6.4.2.

Web Server

Web Server means a software application that uses the HyperText Transfer Protocol (HTTP). A Web Server is usually run on a computer that is connected to the Internet. There are many Web Server software applications, including public domain software from Apache, and commercial applications from Microsoft and Oracle. A Web Server may host or provide access to Content and responds to requests received from Web browsers. Every Web Server has an IP address and usually a domain name, eg. www.murdoch.edu.au or a sub-domain, eg. www.it.murdoch.edu.au. Some Web Servers are Virtual Servers.

Web Services

Web Services refers to application services that allow different applications from different sources to communicate with each other without custom coding. Communication is via XML, is not tied to one Operating System or one programming language and uses open standards including XML, SOAP, WSDL and UDDI over the Internet.

Web Site

Web Site means Content accessible via the World Wide Web that may be identified by a Home Page and located by a unique URL. A Web Site has a Content Custodian responsible for the management of its Content, including its presentation and maintenance and the accuracy and currency of information within that Content. A Web site is usually associated with either an organisation; a function or service; a software application; a publication; a subject, topic or theme. A Web Site may offer a site map to assist in navigation. A Web Site may be hosted on a Web Server with a domain name that reflects its purpose, or it may be made available as part of a larger Web Site, located within that site's directory hierarchy, with a URL that reflects its purpose.

World Wide Web

The World Wide Web, also known as WWW, W3, or the Web, is a hypermedia-based distributed information system based on the Client/Server communications model. Hypertext links within documents enable the retrieval by Web browsers (Client software) of hypertext documents held on Web Servers throughout the Internet. Web browsers are also able to access Mail, News and FTP Servers as well as Content hosted in databases. Web browsers with a graphical user interface enable users to retrieve and display images, animation and video and also retrieve sound files. Web browsers provide the ubiquitous interface to the Internet.

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