Third-Party Apps: Application Integration Considerations

This article explains considerations regarding the integration of a third-party application with various platforms, including but not limited to Canvas, Microsoft Office, Microsoft Teams, and Zoom.

This article explains considerations regarding the integration of a third-party application with various platforms, including but not limited to Canvas, Microsoft Office, Microsoft Teams, and Zoom.

Audience

This article is intended for IC students, faculty, staff, IC affiliates, alumni, and retirees (anyone with an active ithaca.edu email address).

Platform

Web, Windows, macOS, iOS, Android

Third-Party App Integration Considerations

1. Security and Compliance 

• Microsoft 365 Certified: Apps that have Microsoft 365 Certification are already approved and available 

• Publisher Verification: Check if the app developer is verified by Microsoft, and look for applications that have undergone publisher attestation, indicating they meet Microsoft standards 

• Terms and Conditions: Ensure the app’s terms and conditions include details about security measures and compliance with relevant regulations (e.g. GDPR) 

2. Data Handling and Privacy 

• Data Security: Evaluate how the app handles and secures data, including encryption practices 

• Data Retention: Understand how data is stored 

• Privacy Policies: Review how user data is collected, used, and shared, and how access is controlled 

3. Permissions and Integration

• Permissions Requested: Ensure the app only requests necessary permissions and permissions it requires are clearly outlined 

• Integration Capabilities: Assess how the app integrates with other services such as Microsoft 365

4. Functionality and Usability

• Alternate App: Assess conflict or duplication of service with already approved apps or services 

• Community Benefit: Identify clear and compelling use case and benefit for the Ithaca College community 

• User Experience: Consider user interface and overall experience including acceptable use and any limitations on the app’s functionality 

5. Support and Maintenance

• Developer Support: Evaluate the level of support provided by the app developer, including documentation, and update frequency 

• Community Feedback: Evaluate community feedback to gauge the app’s reliability and performance 

       6. Contract Status

• Contract Status: For paid or enterprise applications, confirm that a formal contract is in place

Request a Third-Party App

To request a third-party application integration that is not already approved:

1. Submit a request directly within the application (Teams, Zoom, Canvas etc.), at the sign-in window when using Single Sign-On, or complete this form: Request Software Application 
2. Information Technology & Analytics reviews and evaluates the application using the criteria above as a framework. 
3. Receive updates via an IT Service Desk ticket for approvals, feedback, or alternatives.

Additional Resources

If you have any questions about third-party applications or need assistance, please contact the Information Technology Service Desk. See the following related resource: 

• Third-Party Apps: Available Applications and Process for New Apps