Computer Lab Software Installation Procedure

The Software Installation Procedure outlines the process for evaluating, certifying, procuring and installing new software applications requested by faculty and staff to be installed locally in the public computer labs. The Software Installation Procedure was established to support faculty and staff as they enhance their courses and administrative duties with new technology and to ensure that individuals and departments gain the most benefit while avoiding some common problems in utilizing software. It also outlines the timetable needed to evaluate whether or not the technology will work properly within the current infrastructure and with the current equipment and systems.

• Engage the Department of Information Technology (DoIT) early in the process of acquiring new software.

• Contact the Associate Director for Digital Media, Teaching Learning and Technology Center at (973) 275-2929 as soon as you have a request to evaluate software.

• The Director will determine who in DoIT should be involved in the evaluation and will conduct the compatibility study to determine if the software will be compatible with University systems standards.

• Allow 30 days for the compatibility study.

• If the software is not compatible with the current university infrastructure and there is a compelling academic or administrative need for the software, DoIT can assist the requesting department in determining the cost of procuring the appropriate system. Costs may include hardware, maintenance contracts, and/or hosting services in addition to the cost of the software itself.

• Once the compatibility study is complete, we will move into the installation and testing phase. This phase is a time-consuming and complex task. As a result, the following deadlines have been established.

Effective Date
June 10, 2008

Intended Semester Use

Fall

Spring

Summer (all semesters)

Deadline

June 1

October 1

March 15

• The requesting department/college is responsible for acquiring the appropriate licensing of the software. DoIT can provide guidance on the appropriate number of licenses required based on the type of installation. If the acquisition of valid licenses is unbudgeted, the requesting department must address this through the University budget process.

• Software installations will be reviewed annually by the Associate Director for Digital Media, Teaching Learning and Technology Center to ensure that appropriate licenses have been acquired and to work with the requesting department regarding any maintenance or upgrades required for the software.

Effective Date
June 10, 2008