New Policy Directs Computer Purchases and Replacements

Effective July 1, a new policy will detail the procedures for purchasing and disposing of computers in ways that keep campus technology secure and supportable.

Duquesne is keeping pace with the rapid changes in technology by substantially revising and clarifying these rules. The Information Technology Security Committee has posted the Computer Purchase and Replacement Policy on the Purchasing Policies page in DORI and on the CTS website. The internal audit department first suggested that the policy be overhauled.

“The goal of the policy is to ensure each employee has a suitable computer to perform their assigned responsibilities,” said Madelyn Reilly, assistant general counsel and director of risk management. “We must also reduce risk to the comprehensive campus computing infrastructure.”

Among other issues, the policy requires that deans and directors establish a formal 5-year computer system replacement/upgrade program. They can reference a standard list of equipment that should be purchased through the Computer Store.

“By standardizing pieces of equipment, we get better purchasing power and CTS is better able to support the technology,” said John Ziegler, executive director of CTS.

If an employee requires more than one University-owned computer or needs to buy through an outside vendor, they must gain authorization by completing the Computer Purchase Exception Form.   

When a used computer is replaced, it must be brought to CTS, which will conduct proper disposal, ensuring that data doesn’t leave the campus after the computer is no longer in use.

“Employees need to be diligent about information security,” Ziegler explained. “When they buy from outside the Computer Store, CTS needs to know what is being used so we can support it and ensure that it doesn’t harm our infrastructure.”