Launch date pushed back for more testing

The official Google e-mail launch date has been set for Nov. 3.

The original date had been set for mid-October, but was moved so more testing could be done.

“We want to test the system more thoroughly before launch,” said Christa Skiles, public relations and marketing/internal communications specialist.

On the launch date, all students, part-time and emeriti faculty and alumni will be able to activate their Gmail accounts.

Specific instructions will be provided to users the week before on how to switch accounts. Skiles said users will need to enter their user name and password, then follow the on screen instructions. Accounts that are not switched by the end of December will be switched automatically.

Users will not only be able to move all existing e-mail from their FlashMail account to the Gmail account, but they will also be able to take advantage of available features of Google Mail.

Features include built-in chat, a calendar, a larger amount of storage space and Google search.

“Google provides a slick interface for the e-mail,” said Jay Frye, manager for educational technology outreach. “Users will also have some unique advantages to Kent Gmail.”

Those who already have Gmail accounts will be able to forward their e-mail to the new Kent Gmail accounts if they choose.

Skiles and Frye are encouraging students to join the Facebook group @kent.edu Powered by Google to receive the latest updates about the Gmail transition.

Contact technology reporter Glennis Siegfried at [email protected].