Management of Personal Computers

 

The Office of Information Technology and Delta State University is not responsible for the acquisition of personal computers, hardware, software, and management of personal computer systems. 

 

 

College/Unit Policy Officer: A person with responsibility for issues having broad-based policy implications for students, faculty, and staff in the college/unit; an Associate Dean or similar position.

 

Electronic Communications: The use of computers and network systems in the communicating or posting of information or material by way of electronic mail, bulletin boards, or other such electronic tools.

 

Network Systems: Includes voice, video and data networks, switches, routers, wireless devices, and storage devices.

 

System or Network Administrator: A university employee responsible for managing the operation or operating system environments of computers or network systems, respectively.

 

University Computers and Network Systems (University Systems): Computers, networks, servers, and other similar devices that are administered by the university and for which the university is responsible. Throughout this policy, the shortened term "university systems" is used to mean all university computers and network systems.

 

 

Some organizations today do not consider PCs as capital assets, while other organizations lease this hardware. Leasing reduces the capital asset accounting activity. But because PCs are so inexpensive and accessible, proprietorship rights are not controlled. In actuality this equipment will cost more, produce less, and jeopardize the organization’s operation and security if not properly organized and controlled. The OIT organization is the most qualified for this function.

 

The OIT controls site-licensed software whose charges are based on quantity. The user or department may be required to pay the cost of software on a prorated scale. Departments may purchase their own software if on the list of software that the information systems department supports. Contact the OIT for a listing of supported software or to request testing of newly acquired teaching software. 

No personal hardware or software is allowed. All hardware and software of any kind, including in-house-developed programs, are the organization’s sole property. This policy is enforced to reduce problems with equipment, software failure, damage to data files, and the introduction of viruses. To restrict access to the organization’s data and/or programs and prevent virus transmission, disks or tapes belonging to the organization are not to be used in personal home computers.

 

The OIT should be involved in strategic planning for the University’s PC needs including hardware, software, maintenance, and support, and training for users of this technology.

 

The degree of involvement varies dependent on the operation requirements of each department. The IT Governance Committee, working with the Presidents’ Cabinet, guides information systems management and settles disputes concerning the organization’s current and strategic needs.