Join Pitkin IT for this month's Tech Talk, as we explore part 2 of the world of virtual meetings. We will take a look at Zoom and learn how to navigate this platform with confidence, from scheduling and hosting meetings to leveraging advanced features like screen sharing, breakout rooms, live captions, and recording options.

We'll also cover best practices for virtual etiquette, security measures to prevent disruptions, and tips to ensure smooth, professional, and efficient meetings. Whether you're a beginner or looking to refine your skills, this session will provide practical insights to enhance your virtual meeting experience.

Tired of looking through your email for docs, sheets, folder and other materials? Have a request to change viewing/editing permissions? You can now get all Google Drive notifications in Google Chat! 

This feature allows you to view a record of all notifications that come from Google Drive, like:

• Invitations to edit/contribute (docs, slides, PDFs, folders, etc.)

• Notifications of shared material

• Notifications from users who request additional viewing/editing privileges

Learn more here.

For many of us, sending and receiving emails in Gmail is second nature. But beneath the surface, Gmail offers a range of advanced tools that can streamline your workflow and help keep your inbox organized. From creating email templates for those repetitive emails to setting up automatic labeling with filters, Gmail’s features are designed to make managing your email simpler and more efficient. Join the IT department as we explore some of Gmail’s hidden gems and show you how to make the most of its advanced functionalities.

Discover how internal forms can simplify and standardize requests across the organization in this informative Tech Talk. From software and hardware requests to user account changes, international travel plans, drone authorizations, and facilities needs, we’ll dive into the variety of forms available and how to use them effectively. Learn tips for completing forms accurately, submitting requests efficiently, and tracking approvals. Whether you’re a frequent form user or just getting started, this session will help you navigate the process with ease and confidence.

Take control of your time with Google Calendar! In this Tech Talk, we’ll explore a variety of powerful features designed to make scheduling and collaboration seamless. Topics include setting and sharing your working location, managing working hours, and using optional guest features to streamline meeting invites. Learn how to propose new meeting times, integrate calendar links into your email signature, and efficiently manage shared resources like conference rooms. Whether you’re a Google Calendar novice or a seasoned user, this session will equip you with tips and tricks to boost productivity and stay organized.

As phishing attacks increase, especially during election season and the holidays, it's important to stay on guard. Cybercriminals are using increasingly deceptive methods to compromise your security. Below are some specific threats to watch out for, best practices, and proactive steps:

Common Risks:

• Political Scams: Hackers may use political messaging to capture your attention, asking for donations or tricking you into clicking malicious links.

• Blackmail Schemes: Scammers can use publicly available information (like your name, address, or job title) in emails to convince you they have more sensitive information. They may threaten to expose this unless you pay.

• Package Tracking Scams: With the rise in online shopping, emails falsely claiming issues with package delivery are common. These often prompt you to click a malicious link.

Join us for an in-depth session on the newly updated Policy and Procedures Manual, which now includes the Use of Generative Artificial Intelligence (GenAI) Policy (Policy 6.30). This Tech Talk will focus on the key aspects of the new policy, designed to minimize risks and ensure the appropriate use of GenAI in County operations. Learn about the guidelines in place, the potential implications for your work, where to find AI tools the County has vetted, and next steps for our organization. Empower yourself with knowledge on how to navigate and comply with this policy while leveraging AI responsibly and effectively. We encourage you to bring your own ideas and experience to share with the group!

The IT department is thrilled to announce the launch of Tech Talks, a new series of hybrid meetings designed to dive deep into a variety of IT topics. Pitkin IT aims to enhance organizational knowledge and productivity through these engaging and informative sessions.

Last year, Google introduced a new homepage view in Google Drive that makes it easier and faster for you to find files that matter most. You’ll now notice an expanded search bar and enhanced search chip capabilities that enable you to filter files across your entire Drive. Read more here.

Are you organizing a larger meeting? Would you like to control whether someone can unmute their mic or share their screen? Want to turn on attendance tracking? Would you like to set up a meeting similar to Zoom’s webinar form? Then Google Meet Host Controls is right for you!

IT has made some improvements to our password management software (Keeper). If you are currently using Keeper, please review this memo to ensure you are still receiving all the functionality. If you are not currently using Keeper, and would like to learn more, please reach out to Michaela.Higgins@pitkincounty.com

As a reminder, QuickPass is a tool that IronEdge uses for password resets and user verificatino. It is a trusted link & course. Fine more info here.

The County’s GIS team has launched a new internal site, the "GIS Collective." Navigate to this new resource on PCIN, under the Information Technology & Community Relations ribbon, or click here!

ProVelocity and IronEdge, two of the most respected and innovative IT services companies in the industry, are merging to form a new, stronger entity.With this merger, which expands their geographic reach, the companies say their clients will benefit from their combined expertise and resources.