We recommend that all students be required to buy the minimum software package - especially if this results in a big impact on software prices. Choosing the best method for distributing the minimum software bundle will need further study. Although vendors differ in what they are willing to do, several mechanisms exist and are currently being used by other universities. Site licenses generally result in the best prices and flexibility. However, some vendors who distribute software in this way require yearly renewal.
Licenses can include periodic updates at nominal charge.
Given this complexity, we recommend that the SCOC continue its study of the best method of distribution and report its findings to the Executive Board. We recommend that steps be taken to ensure network access for all students, including ethernet connections in all living areas and off campus dial-in access. Related issues in on-campus student living areas, like adequate space for multiple computers with 15 inch monitors and available power will also need to be addressed. We also recommend that a computer support system, equivalent to that existing in the dorms, be created for all students. Colleges should set up procedures for acting on requests from professors that students buy a piece of software not in the minimum bundle.