Versions & Installation Options

StudioAbroad can be installed in your data center on servers managed by your IT staff. Alternatively, StudioAbroad can be installed on servers managed by Terra Dotta and can be accessed as an internet application service. These options are explained below.

Licensed Version – Installed

Many institutions prefer installing StudioAbroad in their own data center. Generally, if a university plans to integrate StudioAbroad with their student information system, installing StudioAbroad in their data center provides the best security for their confidential student data. This method also allows a university to integrate StudioAbroad with their campus login system, making it easier for students and staff to access.

StudioAbroad can be installed in most commonly used technology environments. Terra Dotta recommends a minimum configuration of one application server and one database server. Scaling and redundancy will vary among institutions. Installation of StudioAbroad requires Adobe ColdFusion MX for the application server software. StudioAbroad can be installed on a variety of databases and server operating systems as listed below:

An SSL certificate is also needed, as well as backup systems for the database and file system (which your IT services department should already have).

Licensed Version – Hosted

StudioAbroad can be installed on servers managed by Terra Dotta. With this option, the institution only needs to purchase StudioAbroad software. There is no need to buy servers, database software or any other hardware or software. The installation and the day-to-day operations are provided by Terra Dotta. Database and file system are backed up nightly. Terra Dotta will manage all software upgrades to the database, operating system and application software. Terra Dotta runs these installations from a professional data center with generator backup, multiple trunks to the internet, fire suppression, etc.

This option is generally preferred by institutions that do not need to integrate StudioAbroad with other systems (such as a student information system), though this is possible. It is also preferred by institutions that do not operate their own data center.

ASP Version

Terra Dotta also offers StudioAbroad in an ASP version. As an application service provider (ASP) this provides a cost-effective option for smaller institutions. The institution using the ASP version does not need to install and operate the servers or obtain software licenses. Instead, they access StudioAbroad as an internet application. There is a $1,000 annual fee – which is the only upfront cost required – plus a student application fee of $50 for each application submitted.

StudioAbroad's ASP version can be up and running in a matter of days. This StudioAbroad environment will have all the functionality of an installed version of StudioAbroad except for integration with other data systems. Institutions that have their own domain name and control their DNS can direct any website to their StudioAbroad ASP site. Those who do not can use our naming convention of http://YOURNAME.studioabroad.com.

As with the hosted version, Terra Dotta provides the servers, 3^rd party software and day-to-day operation and support for the system.

Integration Services

Terra Dotta provides additional services to integrate an institution’s graphics or to produce a custom site design for StudioAbroad under all of the above options. Terra Dotta also provides services to integrate an institution’s student information system and secure campus login system for either of the licensed versions. Integration services are charged at Terra Dotta's hourly rate.