Overview of Shiny & Posit Connect
- Shiny is a package in R (from Posit, formerly RStudio) that allows users to build interactive web applications using R.
- It’s widely used for creating data visualizations and tools without needing web development skills like JavaScript.
- IU uses Posit Connect (formerly RStudio Connect) to host and share Shiny applications.
Why Use Shiny?
- Easy for R users to create apps for statistical analysis, data science, and teaching.
- Offers interactive elements like sliders and panels, which update visualizations in real time.
- Outputs render in browsers like standard web apps using underlying JavaScript.
Posit Connect at IU
- IU has a central Posit Connect server that currently hosts apps for research and teaching.
- Teaching apps include interactive tools for statistics classes (e.g., manipulating effect size and observing graph changes).
- Research apps are used to share data tools and visualizations with broader communities (including external users).
Hosting Details
- Free Posit-hosted options are available for students and small-scale apps (under 5 apps or ~25 hrs/month).
- IU opted for local licensing due to its in-house technical expertise.
- Currently supports around 70 users across various departments.
- Applications are limited to 100MB each — no major issues so far with users exceeding this.
Data & Security Guidelines
- Not approved for sensitive or restricted data (e.g., personal health info or identifiable student records).
- For such use cases, Jefferson suggests contacting SecureMyResearch or using other secure platforms like IU’s Tableau server.
Teaching License Option
- IU had a separate free teaching instance (server) for faculty/student use.
Examples of App Use
- Tools analyzing effect size vs. statistical power
- Genetic research tools and visualizations
- Social analytics dashboards comparing regional campuses
- Collaborations with external partners (e.g., Monroe County prosecutor, NAACP) for data transparency projects
Support & Contact
- Faculty and staff can reach Jefferson directly with questions.
- Alternatively, IU has a Posit Connect support page and contact form (still under development due to system changes).
- https://servicenow.iu.edu/kb?id=kb_article_view&sysparm_article=KB0025370
- posit-connect@iu.edu
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