Generally this is not an issue, but if you plan to bring a large number of new connections on line please be sure to contact VCUnet during the planning phase. Given the diverse nature of the distribution of electronics, it is very difficult to provide firm budgetary guidelines in this area. If planning for more than 10 new connections, it would be best to request planning assistance from VCUnet. This will allow us to confirm what resources are already available, allow us to gear up to meet your needs, and provide you with an accurate budgetary figure. VCUnet maintains a contract for materials that provides competitive pricing for materials.
Contractors also receive competitive pricing due to the volume of materials they purchase.
Labor costs represent the best possibility for reducing costs. Since we do not control the rates that contractors pay their technicians, we need to find ways that will allow the contractor to achieve efficiencies. From an efficiency standpoint, the worst-case scenario is to have individuals requesting single outlets. For each outlet, the contractor must charge for transportation to and from the work site, set up and clean up, and complete all the documentation and purchasing paperwork associated with doing business with the State. If instead of individualized installations, the work was planned and executed at the departmental level or on a per building basis the savings would be considerable.