Note: In the context of this article, "computers" refers to desktop and laptop computers, not servers.
What faculty/staff computers will be included in centralized funding?
- ITS will provide computers assigned to faculty/staff except in research-funded entities such as centers, institutes, and labs.
- ITS will replace one computer per faculty/staff member on a 6-year replacement cycle.
- ITS will replace aging computers with standard configuration computers:
What computers are excluded from centralized funding?
- Computers required for grants and other research-funded entities such as centers, institutes, and labs.
- Faculty/staff requiring high-end configurations will continue to be funded by their department or grant.
What if I need an exception or customization to the standard configuration?
- ITS will consult with you to understand your computing needs. The standard configuration will meet most computing needs.
- Exceptions to some peripherals (e.g., monitors) may be approved when they are required by work responsibilities and have the support of the department head.
- Computers requiring high-end customization need to be funded by the department, grant, or other funding source.
What if I need multiple computers?
- ITS will fund one computer per faculty or staff.
- If you currently have a desktop and a laptop, ITS will replace with a laptop and monitor/docking station.
- If multiple computers are needed: the department or research funds will be responsible for additional computers.
How is a computer for new staff provided?
- When refilling a state-funded staff positions, the previously assigned computer is usually re-assigned to new employees if less than 6 years old.
- When filling a new state-funded staff position, ITS will provide the computer.
- For research/RF-funded staff positions, the researcher, center, institute, or lab will be responsible for funding new and replacement computers. Submit an ITS Service Desk Request for a quote.
How is a computer for new faculty provided?
- New faculty or their department should consult the Standard Configuration recommendations above and submit an ITS Service Desk Request for a quote for a new computer that will be re-charged to their startup funds.
- For faculty positions that do not have startup funds, submit an ITS Service Desk Request for a new computer provided by ITS.
- Computers currently assigned to adjuncts will also move to the centralized funding model.
What if there's a “generic” office computer that is used by several students or staff?
- In most cases, ITS will fund these computers, as appropriate.
Can I keep the old computer that ITS replaced?
- ITS will require you to give up your old computer when it is replaced with a new computer.
- ITS will follow procedures to securely surplus or scrap all old computers.
Will department conference room computers be included in centralized funding?
- Yes, the computer is included. The funding source for the AV components, peripherals, and other technology in the conference room remains unchanged.
Will department classroom and lab computers be included in centralized funding?
- Yes, departmental classrooms and labs are included if they can accommodate ITS' standard configuration computer with standard classroom software.
- The funding source for the AV components, peripherals, and other technology in the room remains unchanged.
How will the University keep track of centrally-funded vs. not centrally-funded computers?
- ITS will maintain a complete inventory of all University computers regardless of funding source.
- ITS will purchase standard configuration computers in bulk to get the best volume discount.
- Even in cases where the computer is not centrally-funded, ITS will obtain the quote and make the purchase. The grant or departmental funding source will be charged-back or recharged for the purchase (ask Paula about this piece).
- ITS will securely surplus or scrap replaced computers with the Office of Asset Management. (BH: TCs are a loophole here when it comes to keeping a centralized inventory if they are handling surplus.)
When will centralized replacement begin?
- In spring 2024, ITS will begin replacing any Windows computers unable to run Windows 11 (typically purchased before 2018). That project will run through summer 2025.
- Beginning FY 2025-26, ITS will have an annual process to replace Windows and Mac computers over 6 years old.