At Unifyed, we define a “New Feature” as a fundamentally new capability added within Engage to provide additional value or solve a new problem.

OAuth Integration with Google Services

Prior to this release, the Gmail Dashboard applet required authorization via CAS. As of this release, we’ve introduced another Google based applet (Google Calendar) and both of the the Google Services applets now support a more modern and widely accepted authorization method – OAuth. This integration ensures that users can seamlessly and securely access their Gmail Inbox and Google Calendar without leaving the Engage portal.

Key Benefits –

• Secure access to Google services using OAuth
• Enhanced user experience with simplified authentication
• Compliance with Google’s current security standards

Feature Summary –
As an admin, you can now configure Google OAuth parameters for the Gmail Dashboard and Google Calendar applets. You’ll need to get the necessary information from within the Google Cloud Platform (GCP) after registering the application.

The configuration process includes fields for the Google Client ID, Google Secret Key, Redirect URI, and Scope. Once configured, users will experience a seamless sign-in process, allowing them to access their Gmail and Google Calendar securely.

Getting Started –
To configure Google OAuth, navigate to Studio → App Manager → Integration → Google. Fill in the required fields and save the configuration.

Gmail Dashboard (OAuth)

We’ve enhanced the security and flexibility of our Gmail integration by transitioning from CAS (Central Authentication Service) to OAuth2.

Key Benefits –

• Improved security with OAuth2 authentication
• Enhanced user control with sign-in and sign-out options
• Persistent login ensuring seamless user experience

Feature Summary –
The Gmail Dashboard applet now supports OAuth2-based authentication in addition to the pre-existing CAS-based approach. Admins can configure which authentication method is used via the configuraiton options on the applet in the Unifyed Appstore. When using OAuth2, individual users will be able to sign in to their Gmail accounts through a Google sign-in page, and the dashboard will display their emails once authenticated. The applet also supports various inbox filtering options and mobile compatibility.

Getting Started –

• To configure the Gmail Dashboard, Go to Studio → App Manager → Unifyed Appstore → Gmail Dashboard → Check Secure User Login (OAuth2)
• Set OAuth2 configuration parameters via Studio → App Manager → Integration → Google
• Drop the Applet in the left navigation menu or a Page
• Sign in through the Google sign-in button

Google Calendar

We have released a new applet in the Unifyed Appstore that allows users to access their Google Calendar(s) within the Engage portal. Previously, they could only see events listed on public calendars using the Multi-Event URL applet.

Key Benefits –

• Seamless integration with Google Calendar
• Accessible from various layouts and mobile devices

Feature Summary –
The new Google Calendar applet allows users to sign in and view their Google Calendars within the Engage portal. The applet can be placed on any page within the Engage portal and is mobile-compatible. Users will see a one-month view of their calendar, with detailed information available for each selected day. The calendar is view-only, displaying event details such as title, time, location, and description.

Getting Started –
The Google Calendar applet can be added to the Engage portal using any of the options listed below:

• Page
• Left navigation menu
• Set dock menu Item (RBAC setting)

Note –

• Currently these applets (Gmail Dashboard and Google Calendar) do not support user logins from mobile devices. Users will need to log in from a desktop or laptop to start using the applets. Once logged in, however, that session will persist, even when viewed on a mobile device.
• In our next release, we will be adding the ability to log in from a mobile device.

Academic Info section in Student Information Applet

In this release we’ve enhanced a new applet that was initially released in Engage v12.17 (Student Information) by adding an Academic Information section, improving the comprehensiveness of the student profile displayed

Key Benefits –

• Comprehensive view of student academic information
• Better data management with CSV integration
• Improved user interface for student profiles

Feature Summary –
The student information applet now includes an academic information section, displaying data from uploaded flat-files. This includes details such as student status, type, program, advisor, GPA, and registered courses. The data is updated from CSV files (AcademicInfo.csv and RegisteredTermsAndCourses.csv) placed in the configured STFP location.

Getting Started –
Ensure that the required CSV files are placed in the STFP location. The data will be automatically updated in the student information applet. See release notes from Engage v12.17 for more information on flat-file applets and data ingestion. 

Select one or more Unifyed Groups on a Connect post

Include Unifyed Groups in Connect Categories When Posting directly within the Connect applet
In this release, we’re including the ability to see and select Unifyed Groups when posting messages in the Connect applet, increasing the visibility and reach of messages.

Key Benefits –

• Expanded message posting options
• Improved group communication
• Enhanced user engagement

Feature Summary –
When posting a message in the Connect applet, users can now see and select Unifyed Groups in addition to Categories. This enhancement ensures that messages reach the intended audience more effectively, enhancing group communication within the platform.

Getting Started –
When posting a message in the Connect applet, use the categories “+” button to see and select Unifyed Groups along with Categories.

Ability to Send a Post Inside Group from Messaging Applet
In this release, we’ve also included the ability to schedule and send posts inside Unifyed Groups using the Messaging applet, enhancing group communication and scheduling.

Key Benefits –

• Improved scheduling and posting within groups
• Enhanced group communication
• Seamless integration with existing messaging features

Feature Summary –
Users can now schedule and send posts within Unifyed Groups using the Messaging applet. The feature respects existing scheduling functionalities and allows users to see group names in the connect category dropdown. Group administrators and users with appropriate permissions can post and schedule messages within their respective groups.

Getting Started –
To use this feature, select the Connect channel in the Messaging applet and choose the desired Unifyed Group from the dropdown menu. Schedule and send your posts as needed.

Resolved Defects-

• Image content in messages now displays correctly in the Messaging Inbox applet.
• Corrected profile icon display for senders in the Messaging Inbox applet.
• Fixed performance issues in the Manage Tiles applet, ensuring smoother operation.

About Unifyed

Unifyed is a pioneer in higher education software and serves over 150 colleges and universities around the world. Unifyed partners with colleges and universities to deliver affordable solutions that help recruit, engage, educate, retain and graduate 21st century students.

For the detailed release note please visit : my.unifyed.com