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Research Workstation Inventory Process

Research Workstation Inventory Process

Owned by Karker, Nicholas
Last updated: Jan 13, 2025
2 min read

The Research Workstation Inventory Process is a collaborative effort between UAlbany ITS and research faculty & staff to ensure your laboratory's computing infrastructure fully supports your research goals. This process aims to enhance your research capabilities and protect your valuable research work.

How This Benefits Your Research

This inventory process directly supports your research by:

  • Protecting your research data through recovery planning

  • Minimizing disruptions by identifying and replacing aging equipment before failures occur

  • Ensuring your lab has access to all available ITS resources and support services

  • Helping maintain security compliance requirements with minimal impact on your research

By participating in this process, you'll receive:

  • A comprehensive overview of your lab's computing resources

  • Information about available research computing services you may not be utilizing

  • Quicker support due an existing, documented understanding of your lab's technology

Overview

The inventory process consists of the following phases:

Phase 1: Research Space Assessment

  • ITS sends you the Research Space Assessment Form

  • You confirm your lab space locations and primary functions

  • Helps us understand your research environment

Phase 2: Research Technology Documentation

a. Research Workstation Form

  • ITS sends you the Research Workstation Inventory Form

  • You provide basic information about the computers in your research spaces

  • The form includes a question about if instruments are connected to workstations

b. Research Instrument Follow-up (if applicable)

  • If you indicated workstations are connected to research instruments

  • ITS will send you a Research Instrumentation Form

  • This helps us better understand your specialized research equipment

c. In-Lab Visit

  • We schedule a convenient time for you to visit your lab to discuss the research technology present

  • During the visit, we:

    • Verify all inventory information and document workstation specifications

    • Record any additional technical requirements

    • Assess research instrumentation (if applicable)

Phase 3. Summary & Follow-up

  • ITS will provide you with a summary of your lab's technology resources and recommendations for improvements.

  • Discuss plans for future upgrades or replacements