Network Transition Starting July 17, 2009

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In the coming weeks, you may notice several changes to NAFSA's Professional Networks as we implement a new content management system (CMS). These changes will improve functionality and give subscribers more ways to connect with the networks. Because the NAFSA site is so large we expect that we users will find some broken links and other minor glitches during the first weeks following the transition. We are encouraging users to notify us of any problems they encounter. As a reminder, NAFSA's Professional Networks are open to everyone, members and nonmembers alike. The changes are as follows:

Transition Period

The discussion forums and new network signups will both be locked for three days, from Wednesday July 15, through Friday July 17, as we migrate users and forum content. You will not need to re-subscribe to your networks or change your forum notification preferences . When the new system goes live, it will be a good opportunity to review your subscriptions and preferences.

Discussion Forums

Currently, all interaction generally comes through E-mail, similar to a listserv. Unfortunately, this can cause numerous glitches for the user and can impede posting to the forums. To correct this problem, starting July 17, the forums will function more like a traditional online discussion forum.

Replying to a Post

Subscribers will continue to receive E-mail updates when other subscribers post to the network; however, instead of replying through e-mail, one will click a link included in the E-mail that will direct him/her to the post. One will need to log in initially, but with a new "remember me" function, subscribers will have to sign in just the first time. After that, they will be continuously logged in to the site.

What's New Announcements

Subscribers will continue to receive announcements from NAFSA regarding new resources and upcoming events and happenings. Additionally, subscribers can also interact and share their thoughts much like one can do with a blog. After the announcement, subscribers can add their own comments.

Additional Improvements

Resources will also be easier to navigate. Rather than separating resources into a Practice Resource section as well as a Document Library, the new network format will include all resources under one heading titled "Resources." All resources for the network can be accessed in one, organized section.

The Networks will see an improved Calendar of Events. This calendar will give subscribers a better perspective of upcoming happenings at NAFSA as well as in the field of International Education.

RSS capability will also be incorporated. Users can subscribe to RSS feeds of individual Discussion forums as well as Announcements from the Network. Anytime you see a

icon, you will be able to receive updates via RSS. Learn more about RSS.

Discussion Forum Notification E-mail

Once you click on the link provided in the E-mail, you will be directed to the forum page where you can type your response directly.

Posting a Discussion Forum Reply

Once you are finished, all you need to do is click "Post." An E-mail will then be sent to all other subscribers indicating that you replied.

Starting a New Discussion Forum Thread

You will type your response directly into the forum box online and click "Post" once you are finished. With the new Forums, subscribers will not be able to post new topics via E-mail. All new posts as well as replies must be done online.

What's New Announcements

Subscribers should follow the same netiquette as with the Professional Networks when commenting on announcements.