MIT thalia

The Academic Computing Coordination group (ACCORD) is dedicated to helping the MIT community use the right technology for their needs. See ACCORD's list of tools, especially the image tool survey, for more guidance.

Can I use Thalia for my class?

Thalia is not intended for course-based use. MIT's main tool for supporting teaching and learning is the Stellar Course Management System.

Can I use Thalia for archiving?

Thalia should not be used for archiving. MIT Libraries can archive the data stored in Thalia through DSpace, their online institutional repository.

Can I have my own Thalia site?

Any DLC (Department, Lab, or Center) at the Institute may request their own Thalia site, which we call a domain. Thalia is not intended for individuals. A domain has its own URL, such as demo.thalia.mit.edu. Within a domain, you can grant view and editing permissions, and configure lists of metadata for users to assign to images.

Can I try Thalia before becoming a customer?

Yes, we encourage it! Please visit the demo site. Guest users can view and search for images.

In order to upload images or create new libraries and slideshows, you must request a separate demo account from a Thalia administrator. Please send a request for a demo account to thalia-request@mit.edu and include your MIT Kerberos ID.

Do I have to install anything?

Thalia is a web service, maintained by IS&T. The server software runs on a secure, backed-up server.

To access Thalia, you need a supported web browser with the Flash plug-in. Please see the system requirements documentation for a list of supported browsers.

How much storage space do I get?

Each domain is allocated 10GB to start. More space is subject to availability and storage fees. See the Thalia Terms of Service.

We have a lot of images. Are there tools to help us migrate to Thalia?

Yes. Thalia allows you to upload files in bulk with a zip file. Metadata, like titles or contributors, can be imported with a metadata sheet.

Are there tools to export from Thalia?

Yes. You can download all the items in a library, including their associated metadata. You can also download a slideshow to play offline.

Does Thalia include image editing tools like Photoshop?

No. If you require the use of image editing tools, we suggest that you use Adobe Photoshop or Apple's iPhoto.

My department has an approval process before images are shared. Does Thalia include workflow tools that could manage this process?

No, not at this time.

Where can I learn more about Thalia's features?

You can get a feature overview from the online help files. These include video tutorials. We will offer hands-on training in 2009.

With whom can I share my images? Can I share editing privileges?

With Thalia, you can determine who has access to your images and what level of access (i.e., permissions) is granted on a particular image or library of images.

How do I become a customer?

To get started, send your request to thalia-request@mit.edu .