Information Systems

The Information Systems Department is responsible for implementing EPFL’s digital strategy. Its missions include, in a combination of direct responsibilities and matrix responsibilities, the development and implementation of EPFL’s IT strategy and master plan, IT security, management of the central IT infrastructure, application management core-business, as well as coordination with the faculties’ IT departments.

Organization

Head of Department

Rafael Corvalán

Our vision

To develop a secure, efficient, reliable IS focused on user needs facilitating access to information and increasing EPFL’s operational efficiency.
Be the key strategic partner for EPFL’s information technologies initiatives.

Our strategy

• DSI is responsible for transforming EPFL into a truly digital and sustainable administration. It supports responsible digitalization initiatives in teaching, research and innovation.
• DSI provides a platform for distributed IT services (from faculties, other vice-presidencies, centres); our goal is to strengthen them in their missions of proximity and operation of applications specific to their profession, and to group services together when their original specificity disappears.
• We acknowledge to technological developments and needs, avoid technological debt, and continually identify new areas of added value for DSI.

Our technological principles

• Cloud first Design
  DSI prioritizes implementing cloud solutions (SaaS) in a format compatible with mobile devices, ensuring compliance with legal requirements and considering the volume of data to be processed.
• Privacy and Security by Design
  DSI considers the elements of privacy and security from the outset of digital initiatives and maintains a high level of standards throughout the entire lifecycle.
• Make or Buy split
  We deploy commercial solutions (COTS) by default and prioritise the use of our strategic platforms. We develop in-house solutions when no solution on the market can meet a specific need.
• Internal vs Outsourced IT activities
  We carry out strategic activities internally and are constantly looking for opportunities to outsource activities with low added value or of a highly specialised nature.

Services and units