STUDENT AFFAIRS
IT OPERATIONS GROUP

Computer Hardware

The IT Operations group maintains standard computer configurations for new purchases. The group will coordinate the purchase, delivery, configuration, and setup of new systems, as well as the disposal of systems that are being replaced.

It is strongly recommended that machines are leased whenever possible. The lease cost is about $45 per month for each computer. A three-year lease means machines will be refreshed on a regular basis without requiring adjustments to budgets or large one-time payouts for new purchases. At the end of the lease, which occurs at the same time as the expiration of the warranty, a new model can be obtained at about the same monthly cost.

Although a "one size fits all" approach to purchasing computers may not seem logical, the standard configuration is appropriate for the vast majority of staff members. Some users may have special equipment needs which can usually be met with minor modifications to the current standard. The standard configuration has the following benefit:

• Drastically reduces overall support costs (part of the "Total Cost of Ownership") of the computer
• Reduces costs by eliminating unnecessary items that ship with manufacturer-standard configurations
• Saves desk space for users
• Develops a strong support relationship with a preferred vendor
• Allows minimal disruption when moving machines between staff members