The Directory Service is a core piece of the technology supporting the middleware initiative at the University of Maryland. The directory contains information about people and things at the University.

It should be noted that the directory is designed to be used for a specific type of application, and the directory may not be the most appropriate storage mechanism to use. Specifically, the directory uses Lightweight Directory Access Protocol (LDAP) and is designed for frequent searches of small result sets. It is not intended for wholesale data extraction processes or processes requiring frequent update of data elements.

It is expected that the directory will be used by a variety of applications in support of the business processes of the University. To this end, you will find a variety of resources here to assist in this effort.

Directory Related information includes:

• Overview
• FAQ
• Schema
• Application requirements
• How to access the directory
• Policies related to use of directory information

University of Maryland LDAP directory (revised) May, 2000 at Common Solutions Group Meeting.
Enterprise Directory Services at College Park June 1, 2001 at USM Middleware Day (also available as Powerpoint)

For more information on the Middleware Initiative, feel free to contact Directory Administrator.