The IT department at WDW

[Siegemon]

While we was down at WDW I had to wonder what the IT department at WDW is like. All the computers, rides, fast pass system, card readers, scanners, ect. interconnected. This could really boggle a persons mind.

I am currently going for a degree in networking myself, I want to get my CCNA and CCNP. I know how rough the entry level stuff is so I couldn't imagine what their setup looks like. Has anyone on this board ever seen the setup they use there at WDW if so whats it like.

 

[joel_maxwell]

While we was down at WDW I had to wonder what the IT department at WDW is like. All the computers, rides, fast pass system, card readers, scanners, ect. interconnected. This could really boggle a persons mind.

I am currently going for a degree in networking myself, I want to get my CCNA and CCNP. I know how rough the entry level stuff is so I couldn't imagine what their setup looks like. Has anyone on this board ever seen the setup they use there at WDW if so whats it like.

i have a background in computers and graphics but i did have to take 3 networking courses (pretty fun) but congrats on working towards that field, i have seen some quick peeks through doors or what not but i havent ever been actually inside any of the IT rooms. im sure that are like fort knox. lol

im sure you should get some response from some CM's on the boards.

welcome. :wave:

 

[lamarvenoy]

Once upon a time there was a show at epcot (I think it was called the bird and the robot-or something like that) It gave visitors an inside peek at the newest technological hardware and software being used at the parks to control the systems. That stuff is all outdated and the show is long gone but there is a wholesaler who sells off used disney surplus stuff on ebay.By the looks of the stuff he's selling Disney is constantly updating its hardware to keep up with the cutting edge. I'm sure the compexity of its system network is comparable to most other large companies and industries.

 

[ThreeCircles]

That's really funny you should ask!

I was at MK last weekend and had stopped in Guest Services to ask a question. Well, after being taken care of a CM came from off stage and asked us if we would like to try (for free) a new tour offering they are currently testing out. We jumped at the chance not knowing what it would be.

Well, it's a Behind Walt Disney World's Technology Tour!

They show you all kinds of great stuff but at the end they show you the "Command Central" for the MK.

Here's just one pic they allowed me to snap:

<img src="http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v218/kmiles/Clipboard01.jpg">

Isn't it totally amazing how advanced their network is?

 

[joel_maxwell]

you could fit all that technology into one computer and a small printer now. that is funny........ what is that from the early 90's. lol

 

[marni1971]

Isn't it totally amazing how advanced their network is?

:lol:

There are central control systems all over WDW - The MK`s is under the (or very nearly) Haunted Mansion; security is tight.

EPCOT Centers Computer Central is or was in what was Communicore East, in the North East segment (the windowless one) but I`m not sure if they put local control in since DACS (makes more sense)

Reedy Creeks Central Energy Plant in the North Service Area houses phase ones (and possibly more) DACS for everything from fire detection to energy consumption.

I too am fascinated in how the world is run.

 

[joel_maxwell]

:lol:
I too am fascinated in how the world is run.

ME TOO. but mine is a little more geared towards the ins and outs of the attractions. i want to see a lot of things including (ex.) the inside of SSE with the lights on. im not talking about the exist stairs if the ride has to be evac. im talking about all the details. the hatch, the show sets, etc etc

it may never happen, i guess i could win the lotto and donate some money..... maybe that would get me a tour of certain things. lol

 

[dave2822]

Have you ever seen the Travel Channel: Behind the Scenes Walt Disney World Resort special?

It's not incredibly in depth by any means, but there were some pretty cool segments, where they talked about (and showed) some of the technology room, sound effects for Haunted Mansion, how they do the parade routes, ToT construction, and the inferno barge for Illuminations.

 

[wedway71]

didnt wdw just this last month officially make a decision to outsource the it jobs to ibm? i thought all it people would till have same jobs and report to same locations just a new boss-think it was ibm

 

[Figment1986]

Here's just one pic they allowed me to snap:

<img src="http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v218/kmiles/Clipboard01.jpg">

Isn't it totally amazing how advanced their network is?

you know what.... They must have stilen that technology.. I remember seeing that in my grandmothers basement... before she gave it to a musium... (oh and the computer is in the printer... the printer is not in the image..)

 

[SpenceMan01]

I too am fascinated in how the world is run.

Me too. I'm always talking with my Dad about how the rides/attractions work. Reminds me of my favorite Walt Disney quote:

"Whenever I go on a ride, I'm always thinking of what's wrong with the thing and how it can be improved."
-WED

 

[DisneyChik17]

I don't know how it works, personally I'm not interested. BUT, I do wish my daddy would get a job there. I would be sooooo happy. I would love to go home and be "home".

 

[cm1988]

IT Roles at WDW

Here's what I hear from (usually) reliable sources...

Most of the networking roles have been outsourced... and further outsourcing continues (though I honestly do not have the details). IBM is indeed the major vendor, so far.

Ride systems, such as the software running audioanimatronics is not done by IT; that is from a group called Scientific Systems. I think that they are cast members, but possibly are tied more to WDI.

Along with the outsourcing, IT is going through a transformation, which I understand to be something like a game of musical chairs.

Probably the best way to do I.T. work at WDW is to sign up with one of the many contracting firms that place people there.

 

[General Grizz]

Here's what I hear from (usually) reliable sources...

Most of the networking roles have been outsourced... and further outsourcing continues (though I honestly do not have the details). IBM is indeed the major vendor, so far.

Ride systems, such as the software running audioanimatronics is not done by IT; that is from a group called Scientific Systems. I think that they are cast members, but possibly are tied more to WDI.

Along with the outsourcing, IT is going through a transformation, which I understand to be something like a game of musical chairs.

Probably the best way to do I.T. work at WDW is to sign up with one of the many contracting firms that place people there.

Yes, about 1/3 of those in the IT group are no longer being considered "Disney employees"

 

[Woody13]

That's really funny you should ask!

I was at MK last weekend and had stopped in Guest Services to ask a question. Well, after being taken care of a CM came from off stage and asked us if we would like to try (for free) a new tour offering they are currently testing out. We jumped at the chance not knowing what it would be.

Well, it's a Behind Walt Disney World's Technology Tour!

They show you all kinds of great stuff but at the end they show you the "Command Central" for the MK.

Here's just one pic they allowed me to snap:

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v218/kmiles/Clipboard01.jpg

Isn't it totally amazing how advanced their network is?

I love the way Disney used that steering wheel on their computer. The answer is here;

http://www.snopes.com/inboxer/hoaxes/computer.asp