Information means nothing, if you can’t find it… CAFB SharePoint site is a means to an end

  • Published
  • By Master Sgt. Damien McCleskey
  • 14th Communications Squadron
Columbus Air Force Base --  Information is defined as: Data that has been verified to be accurate and timely, is specific and organized for a purpose, is presented within a context that gives it meaning and relevance, and that can lead to an increase in understanding and decrease in uncertainty. However, if you can't find a way to access that information it means nothing.
Columbus Air Force Base has many electronic platforms that provide individuals with the means to create, store and retrieve various types of information. One of the newest and most user friendly platforms is "SharePoint". The CAFB main SharePoint site can be found using the following web address: https://columbus.eis.aetc.af.mil/default.aspx. All users must select their email Common Access Card certificate when prompted for access.

So, what is SharePoint? SharePoint is a popular web platform developed by Microsoft for small to large organizations. It is designed as a centralized replacement for multiple web applications, and supports various combinations of enterprise website requirements. It is typically associated with web content management and document management systems. SharePoint's multi-purpose platform allows for managing and provisioning of: intranet portals, extranets and websites, document management and file management, collaboration spaces, social networking tools, enterprise search, business intelligence tooling, and process/information integration. SharePoint can also be used as a web application development platform.

One of the key features on the main Columbus AFB SharePoint site is the "Wing Programs" tab. It provides a central access point for multiple wing level programs. This single tab eliminates the need for customers to search through each group and/or squadron SharePoint page to find information about a program. The "Wing Programs" tab enables 14th Flying Training Wing program mangers the ability to streamline all applicable information into a specific area thus eliminating customer search requirements.

The "Wing Programs" area is continuously improving and evolving to meet customer needs and should be checked often. Currently the area links to 13 subjects from records management to voting assistance.

The 14th Communications Squadrons, Knowledge Operations section is the OPR for the "Wing Programs" area and can be contacted via email at: 14CS/SCOK@columbus.af.mil or by calling 434-2889, 434-3580 or 434-3394.