What is the problem?

Shortcuts to applications are missing, but the applications themselves are still installed on the computer.

Cause:

Microsoft confirmed via their twitter page that the issue we are experiencing has been caused by a Microsoft update 

Workaround:

Please see the following help document on how to open your applications

Fix:

We will continue to work on this issue alongside updates from Microsoft

Update:

We will post a further update by 4pm

Missing shortcuts to applications 

We continue to work on the issue alongside updates from Microsoft.
Please continue to use the workarounds described in this help document on how to open your applications.

IT Services have pushed out an update that will restore missing shortcuts to most applications in the Software Center. It could take up to an hour after powering on a computer before it will get the update. We're still investigating other solutions for restoring the remaining shortcuts.

Most missing shortcuts have now been restored, you can unpin any old shortcuts from your task bar by right clicking and select unpin from taskbar.   You can repin new shortcuts in the same way. right click and pin to taskbar. If you need further support please contact IT Support