To ensure compatibility with USD infrastructure and effective ITS support, all computer purchases require prior ITS approval. In accordance with USD Purchasing Policy 2.10.2, desktops, laptops, and other technology purchases must be approved and ordered through ITS.
Standardization is critical to maintaining an efficient support organization. Providing timely support for hardware from all vendors is not feasible, particularly at USD, where ITS is responsible for deploying, maintaining, repairing, and supporting thousands of computers.
Why Standardize?
By partnering with select vendors (Apple and Lenovo), USD is able to increase their purchasing power and lower their overall computer purchasing costs. ITS is able to negotiate lower prices on select professional/business grade computers configured to meet USD needs, along with additional support.
ITS works diligently with our technical partners to make professional/business grade computer selections to best meet the computing requirements of the campus. ITS- acquired computers are tested for compatibility with the USD network and are scalable for 3 to 5 years of operations on our campus.
USD computers are pre-configured and tested during the manufacturing process to save the ITS staff significant computer setup time. ITS has agreements in place with our vendors (LenovoDell) so that USD computers arrive on campus pre-installed with specific USD settings, including pre-installed software, pre-configured BIOS settings and the removal of unnecessary vendor specific programs.
Computer standardization makes it possible for our ITS staff to promptly answer your questions and fix any problems that may arise. This ensures you receive efficient service when you experience problems, allowing you to get back to work as quickly as possible.
Standardization of hardware allows ITS staff to familiarize themselves with select computers. We work with our vendors to obtain any specific training needed for our staff to develop new technical skills required for the support of a new product. We are also able to request direct vendor support much more efficiently to help us better serve the USD community. With a limited number of ITS staff, standardization is a major advantage in ensuring that we provide university clients with the most reliable service.
The initial cost of a computer is just part of the total cost of ownership (TCO). Cheaper, non-standardized computers may save a little up front, but cost more in the end. TCO has a big impact on the campus community due to the hidden support costs caused by the amount of time it will take to set up, maintain and repair a non-standard computer. This hidden overhead is costly to the university as it decreases the efficiency of the ITS staff and the customers they support.
Computers ordered through ITS are bar coded, recorded and tracked in the ITS asset management system. This provides us invaluable data needed for software compliance, campus surveys, as well as financial and accreditation reporting.
Questions about placing an IT Order? We're here to help. Contact the Help Desk: