Self Service (Mac) - How to Install Software & Updates

Self Service is an application that can be found in the dock of every managed UWM Mac. The computer DOES NOT need to be connected to the campus VPN to access resources in Self Service from off campus. Launch the app by clicking on the Self Service icon in the dock or by searching Spotlight (On your keyboard enter Command + Space, then start typing Self Service and hit Return).

Figure 1: Launching Self Service from Spotlight

Self Service provides an easy way to install applications commonly used by UWM staff, including both free software (such as Google Chrome), and licensed software (such as Adobe Creative Cloud). If you are using a Mac purchased by the university and do not have Self Service installed, please contact the UWM Help Desk.

Navigating Self Service

Self Service is designed to be easy to use and is divided into two sections: Home and Activity. Users can switch between these sections by using the Home and Activity buttons at the top of the Self Service window. When Self Service is launched, it will automatically display the Home screen. On the left side of the home screen is a list of categories to make it easier to find software that can be installed, or to find tools like Software Update for keeping your Mac up to date.

Figure 2: Self Service home screen

To install applications, click the Install button under the application icon. If you are looking for software that is already installed on your computer, the button will say Open and clicking it will launch the selected software. The text of the buttons is customized for its action, for example mounting a network share would have a Mount button, and a tool that checks for printers to install will say Check for Printers.

For most software, clicking the Install button will immediately begin installing the software. The Install button will change to Installing and show a spinning graphic to indicate that the process is working. When the software has completed installation, the button will change to say Open.

Figure 3: Installing iMovie in Self Service

Software that requires that the computer to be restarted, or some other user interaction will display a message describing what will happen and next steps.

Figure 4: Installing Jamf Connect in Self Service warns users they will be logged out

The other section of Self Service is called Activity and shows a list of recently installed or updated software.

Logging in to Self Service

There is a Log In button in the top right corner of the Self Service window. Most users will never need to log into the application. The login functionality is primarily used for restricted software and to provide additional tools for technical support staff. Anyone needing software or other assets protected by logging in will be notified by CTS staff. To log in, click the Log In button in the top right corner of Self Service and enter an ePantherID (without the @uwm.edu suffix) and password.

Figure 5: Logging in to Self Service

How to get software added to Self Service

Most UWM licensed software is either pre-installed on campus Macs (Example: Microsoft Office) or is already available in Self Service. Additionally, any applications available from the Mac App Store can also be added to Self Service. Contact the UWM Help Desk or complete a Purchase Request Form (even for free software) and CTS staff can make it available in Self Service.