Q:What is DDIS?
A:The Distance Diagnostic and Identification System (DDIS) for Extension was developed jointly by extension agents, specialists and the staff of IFAS Information Technology. The current website is version 3 of DDIS. DDIS serves growers' and homeowners' needs for quick identification and diagnostic services as a basis for Integrated Pest Management programs. DDIS provides a collaboration and communication tool for first detectors, extension specialists and diagnosticians to share information on plant insects and diseases. The system uses field data and digital media as a tool for enhancement of diagnosis of plant disease, insect, weed, invasive species, plant management, physiology, and nutrient problems. The system has the advantage of associating the images or videos and related description in a searchable database. The resulting archive of samples will give us a robust library for future research and extension use. [top]
Q:Where can I get technical support on how to use the DDIS?
A:Start by reading DDIS How To and FAQs on the DDIS website. If your question isn't answered there, call the IFAS-IT Help Desk, 352-392-4636. [top]
Q:Why can't I just attach a digital picture to e-mail and send it?
A:That's how we got started, but there are some serious drawbacks:
Q:What is the "standard" DDIS hardware?
A:Visit the DDIS Equipment configuration
If county funds are available, we suggest you start with the camera, the adapter and a dissecting stereoscope. Add the compound microscope and additional light source next. [top]
Q:Why do I have to fill out so much information on the form?
A:The more information a diagnostician has, the better - or quicker - the answer back to you. And the more complete the text descriptions, the better the archive will serve us all later when we use the accumulated samples in the library. The information on the DDIS form was compiled from paper forms the different identification and diagnostic services where using with biological samples. [top]
Q:Who are DDIS users?
A: DDIS is primarily designed for users of county extension agents at the University of Florida. However, this version supports outsider users and growers in Florida. Please contact us if you are interested in using DDIS. [top]
Q:What specialists can receive my sample?
A:There is a list of specialists who registered DDIS at University of Florida and external specialists. They are specialists in different area in academic departments, diagnostic labs or clinics. You can see a list of specialists after you login DDIS. [top]
Q:How can I tell whether my sample has gone to the specialist?
A:As soon as a sample is successfully submitted, you'll get a notification that gives the sample ID code, and an e-mail notification. If these don't appear quickly, then you can bet your sample didn't go through.
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Q:What if I want to send to someone else, like an IFAS specialist who doesn't have DDIS or a specialist in another state?
A:Call the IFAS specialist using that tried-and-true network, the telephone. Ask if they would be willing to install DDIS in order to receive sample. If they need help, suggest they contact the IT Help Desk. We have allowed staff of USDA APHIS in the Citrus Canker program to use the DDIS system, and we're looking to expand to some other agencies that cooperate closely with us, such as FDACS DPI and Division of Forestry. The system allows specialists refer a sample to external specialists for diagnosis. [top]
Q:When I click the submit button, it seems to take a long time. How can I speed up the sending process?
A:There are three good ways to cut the transmission time of DDIS samples you submit: 1) use as few photos as you can to represent the problem, 2) use proper image size. You may reduce or crop images if necessary, and 3) use high speed, direct connection to the Internet through ISDN, T1, DSL, fiber optic lines, or a cable modem. The rule: send small files on fast lines to minimize connect time. If you cannot submit any images, please contact your local computer support personnel and make sure your computer network permits file upload. [top]
Q:How do I reduce the size of the image?
A: Software like ACDSee and Adobe PhotoShop allow you to crop or resize images before you save them. Visit the DDIS Equipment page for more detail. [top]
Q:What if I want to share a sample or a response with another agent?
A:Login to DDIS and view the sample. In DDIS Toolbox, grant permission to another person. This sample will appear to another user's My Sample folder. [top]
Q:How many images should I submit?
A:Take enough photos and select a few best photos that can represent the symptoms of plant and pest. You may have photos for field view, close up view and microscope view. If you want submit more photos after your initial submission, you always can add additional photos by revising the sample. [top]
Q:What's next for DDIS?
A:DDIS team is continuously improving the system. If you have any suggestions, please send your feedback so we can enhance the system. [top]
Q:Does DDIS allow extension clientele in Florida submit a sample?
A:Yes, DDIS provides a means for Extension Clienteles (growers, crop consultants, home owners or master gardeners) sending digital samples to their county extension agents. After the extension agent receives the sample, he/she may reply to the sample submitter or forward the sample to proper clinics or specialists for diagnosis. This feature provides a direct on-line communication among county extension agents and their clienteles. Below are procedures of the sample submission.
1) The extension clientele has to sign up as a DDIS user by clicking on Sign Up button on the DDIS Web site. In the sign up form, please select Extension Clientele as your user group. The user account will be activated upon extension agent’s confirmation in that county. Before this step extension clientele needs to get DDIS training offered at the counties.
2 )With approval of the account, the user then can submit a sample to county extension agents in his/her county using DDIS.
3) County extension agent who received the sample then replies to the user directly or forwards the sample to specialists or diagnostic clinics.
4) If the sample is forwarded to a specialist, diagnosis notification will be sent to both the county extension agent and the sample submitter. [top]