In order to fulfill our commitment to deliver the highest quality computer, information processing, and telecommunications services, consistency in hardware and software across the environment is vital.
OCCS has developed a set of university-wide computer standards which should be reviewed before purchasing or upgrading your system or software. These standards cover various aspects of the University's computing environment such as desktop systems, software, the campus Internet and the campus network.
Beyond the Recommended Configurations
Individuals who find that their computing needs are not addressed by the pre-configured systems from Lenovo may configure a custom system directly from the web site of either of the other vendors that were awarded participation from the desktop contract (this includes both Gateway and Dell). OCCS highly recommends that Old Dominion University faculty and staff make purchases from the managed PCs group from Lenovo. This is the corporate/business line and provides the greatest parts stability.
Faculty and staff not selecting managed PC's but instead configuring custom systems should be aware that systems will NOT have the Old Dominion University pre-configured images or site license software preinstalled. Purchasers of systems from these sources will be charged the commercial rate for the current Windows operating system that the desktop is being deployed with. Other applications may be ordered and installed from the university site license program to save on costs associated with the software side of a new installation.
When investigating a "custom" system, it is important to consider whether or not the enhanced hardware is necessary for your computing needs. Some enhancements result in significant cost increases with a less proportionate increase in performance or reliability. Faculty and staff should also be aware that purchasing a custom system will greatly increase the amount of time required to accomplish a full system installation and configuration after the system is delivered to the University.