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What should I do about the browser security certificate warning when logging in?

In most browsers, you can simply ignore the warning and continue. In Firefox, you will need to add a permanent security exception. Login information is passed over the network securely via HTTPS. For HTTPS to work without certificate warnings, we would need to purchase a SSL certificate from an authorized Certificate Authority. Since we are in BETA, it does not make sense to purchase an official certificate until we have settled on the final web address for the product. Instead, we use a self-signed certificate, which costs no money, and serves the same purpose of a secure login. View specific instructions for each browser.

What does it mean when Swarm is in Beta?

It means that you are helping us test the product before it is officially launched and supported by the IT department. This is a different approach to the traditional way of delivering custom software. In the past, software would be made available for general use once the entire programming, development, and testing lifecycle has been completed. The user would normally have one chance to tell the development team what they want in the software, and then wait several months before getting a chance to play with it. By making Swarm a Beta project, we are allowing users to have more involvement throughtout the entire development process. Your feedback becomes critical to the success of the product.

I am concerned about privacy. Who gets to see what I post?

By default, all your posts are viewable by RCTC staff / faculty who have logged in using their network ID. However, when you are creating a post or content, we allow you to change the access level. You can choose to make it "private" - which means only you can view it. You can make it "public" - which means that people who don't login can see it. Finally, you can make it accessible by only those who you are "following".

Why don't I see everyone from RCTC in the Members listing?

Just like Facebook, a person can choose not to join. By logging into Swarm, you are automatically joining. There is no registration. We only ask that you fill out your profile so that it becomes useful for those who are trying to locate people with specific skill sets. The more people who join, the more useful Swarm becomes as a productivity tool. You can invite your colleagues to join, so that they can collaborate with you and other members.

Why did you name this product "Swarm"?

The inspiration came from a book called "The Smart Swarm" by Peter Miller. The premise is that all kinds of animals, birds, fish, and even humans are able to think better in groups than as individuals. This forms the basis of how it can help people become more productive and make better decisions.

Do you plan on opening it up to students as well?

That is a possibility. However, at this time, there are no plans to open it up to students. There are certainly benefits to having students as part of the social collaboration hub. The legal and privacy issues are far too complex to include them in this initial product launch. If you can find some great use cases and pros for opening it up to students, we'd like to hear from you. Send us your feedback right in the Swarm Feedback forum.