Groundworks

Groundworks is a great starting point for you to begin to learn about digital media tools. We are a walk-in, self-service media lab with hardware and software for audio, video, animation and many media-based projects.


Resources
Orientations
Learning & Teaching
NCTC Checkout

Hours:
Groundworks is open 24/7
Consultants are available during staffed hours only.

Staffed Hours:
Mon-Fri, 9 am-6 pm

Spring Break Hours:
Feb 24 – March 3
Groundworks will be open, but not staffed.

Location: 1315 Duderstadt Center

Contact: (734) 647-5739
groundworks@umich.edu


Groundworks Resources

Learn about our still life photo table(s), recording booth, media conversion rack, drawing tablets, scanners, extensive software list, and more.

desktop photo table

Orientations

Intended for new users who wish to learn about Groundworks resources and gain access to the Multimedia Workrooms or the Recording Booth. The 30 minute online orientation covers the basic set up of hardware and software in the lab, equipment within the Multimedia Workrooms and the Recording booth, and policies regarding lab use and reservable spaces. The online orientation will prepare users to start working on their projects within a few hours of their orientation.

The Personal Studio Orientation is a requisite introduction to the software and equipment provided in the DMC’S popular video production room. Learn more about the Personal Studio Orientation.

In person orientations begin in Groundworks and are led by Ground Connections student consultants. Large groups, including classes and student organizations, can schedule in person orientations by emailing DC-scheduling@umich.edu. In person orientations are currently on hold.


Learning & Teaching

We offer in-person and virtual workshops, as well as special resources for remote and hybrid learning and teaching. A variety of tutorials and guides are also available on our Knowledge Base.

For information on how to get started producing 3D visual content, go directly to our featured presentation “360 Visualization Support at the Duderstadt Center”

a view of a tablet computer being used to capture an image of a building interior

NCTC Checkout

The DMC has expanded it’s equipment checkout system, now the North Campus Technology Checkout (NCTC), where faculty and students can checkout video and audio equipment to support teaching and learning projects.

Equipment including Sony a7C mirrorless cameras with wireless lavalier microphones, smartphone production kits, an LED light kit, tripods and illustration tablets can be found at the consultant desk located within Groundworks.