Matrix (team chat/communication)

Matrix allows teams to chat in real time. It is mainly used to communicate in groups, clarify questions or exchange information in general - whether for projects, work or teaching.

It is also possible to communicate directly with other universities that also use a Matrix-based chat system.

Matrix is suitable for employees and students of the university who want to communicate quickly, flexibly and in compliance with the GDPR in projects or organizational units.

It is operated by the Gesellschaft für wissenschaftliche Datenverarbeitung mbH Göttingen (GWDG). The ITS is responsible for first-level support.

Matrix enables data protection-compliant, secure communication via text messages, group chats, direct file exchange and direct 1-to-1 video calls within the university, but also between other institutions that also use Matrix. Users can set up topic-related discussion channels to simplify collaboration in teams or projects. The platform offers mobile and web-based access, ensuring flexible and location-independent communication.

Zoom is available for synchronous meetings. Moodle forums or e-mail are also suitable for asynchronous collaboration.

• Individual and group chats: Quick communication with colleagues or project groups - also across universities
• Channels (public/private): Structured exchange in teams or specialist groups.
• Share files: Upload and exchange documents directly in the chat.
• Mentions & notifications: Address users in a targeted manner.
• Apps for desktop & mobile devices: Cross-platform use.
• End-to-end encryption: Communication is encrypted by default. However, encryption can be deactivated for individual rooms.
• Video call: A video call between two people is possible. Group video communication is deactivated on our home server.

• A specialist group sets up a private channel for a quick exchange on current tasks and questions.
• Lecturers use Matrix for discussions with students between seminar dates.
• Researchers can exchange information across universities.

Access is via the web browser <https://matrix.uni-kassel.de> or via an app for Windows, macOS, Linux, Android and iOS. As Matrix is an open standard, there are various clients: <https://matrix.org/ecosystem/clients/>

We recommend using the Element client:

• https://element.io/download

For administrators: If you are running a software distribution, please contact the IT service desk. We can then provide you with an msi package.

Employees and students can log in directly with their UniAccount <ukxxxxxxxx> without further activation. You can find detailed instructions under Access to Matrix (first steps).

Note: Members of the University of Kassel can only log in with their primary account!

External persons can log in with their existing Matrix account or via a new account at <https://matrix.org> to communicate.

No training courses are currently offered.

All data is processed exclusively on the university's own servers. The service complies with the requirements of the GDPR. It is not passed on to third parties.

Use is reserved for members of the university for official, organizational and university-related communication. The Synapse matrix server and the Element client are open source software under the AGPLv3 license. The usage guidelines of the IT Service Center apply.