The Computer Store Transition Advisory Group recently issued its first draft recommendations. The Group was charged with considering alternatives for the purchase and maintenance of computer hardware and software on campus. After considering various alternatives including outsourcing, the Group called for some fine tuning of the arrangements initially put in place in December 1996 and for the establishment of a well-understood process for future change. The recommendations are subject to further discussion and change before the final report is issued in December. The Group focused on the need for a plan to fund replacement of departmental computers, convenient maintenance services, university-wide standards, and flexibility to change quickly in a highly fluid and competitive environment.
Plans are underway to schedule an open forum for individuals to ask questions and make comments.
The Group has also endorsed IR's selection of Dell Computers as an additional recommended vendor to the campus after testing models from the Optiplex and Dimension desktop lines and from the Latitude laptop line. Dell regularly ranks at the top in reviews of PC manufacturers. The Optiplex line is the preferred choice for departmental purchases but Dimensions will also be supported. More information about these topics is available from Client Services consultants on the College and Departmental Teams. In spring 1997 IR opened an Educational Curriculum Collection which is housed in the Media Center at Fairchild-Martindale Library.