2009-10 Computer Replacement Initiative (CRI)

While we face significant fiscal challenges, we recognize that it is important to provide our faculty and staff with the technology tools needed to carry out their job functions. It will be, however, a more modest program than in its previous years given the reduced funds available.
The timeline for the CRI continues to be early in the spring semester in order to provide faculty and staff with a larger window for applying to the CRI. Ordering of new machines will occur May 26, with installation planned for early July 2009.
Given the success achieved during previous years with a single procurement and mass distribution of PCs, we will continue with a similar program this year. As in the past, we will have several “standard” configurations included in this procurement as well as an option for a standard configured laptop. The minimum and recommended configurations for desktops and laptops can be found at https://spaces.umbc.edu/display/hd2/Recommended+Technology+for+Faculty.
We will provide a subsidy of $700 for a PC and $900 for a laptop machine. Those wishing to purchase different brands may apply the subsidy amount toward the purchase of a computer. All computers purchased should come with a three-year warranty. We will again place a bulk purchase with Dell so machines can be delivered and installed well in advance of the start of fall 2009. Each individual will have the option of using the bulk purchase or ordering their customized unit from either Dell or another vendor. I encourage you to participate in this bulk purchase plan given the benefits we have seen in the past. Your department will be charged a one-time amount depending on which option you select. The options available and the exact department cost share for each option will be announced in April.
The timeline for this year’s CRI is the following:
Mid-February: Announcement sent to campus
April 6: Deadline for submitting CRI application via the OIT web form
April 27: Awards are announced
May 18: Deadline for awardees to make their computer options selection
May 26: PC order will be placed
The application form is available at https://my.umbc.edu/cri. First priority funding is given to a requestor with a computer that falls below the minimum standard and who has explained the need for a new computer under the mandatory narrative on the form. If you have questions about the CRI or these instructions, contact Vice Provost Antonio Moreira at ext. 5-6567 (or Executive Administrative Assistant Susan Lavezza at ext. 5-6577).