As shared this summer, a worldwide chip shortage and other supply chain issues continue to delay the delivery of many WVU purchases — from computers and vehicles to furniture and flooring. It now appears the chip deficit may last until at least the second half of 2022, with other product shortages and delays exacerbated by power supply issues affecting China's production capacity and continuing shipping and supply chain problems.
While we are sympathetic to the frustration associated with these delays, the Information Technology Services and Procurement, Contracting and Payment Services teams want to remind faculty and staff to only use approved and established processes when purchasing computers.
Consumer-grade computers (e.g., those available from retail stores) are not pre-configured to WVU standards for accessing University systems and data. These devices also have not been tested with WVU software.
Further, using standardized equipment improves WVU’s ability to provide customer support when there are problems, to manage and update computers remotely, and to accurately monitor the University’s computer inventory.
All devices purchased with state, WVU Research Corp. or grant funding and used to conduct WVU business must meet the University Owned Devices Standard.
Use of a personal device as the primary means to handle WVU data and/or conduct University business is prohibited. Personal devices that are occasionally used to connect to WVU networks and systems must meet the Bring Your Own Device and the Remote Access standards.
PCPS and ITS recommend that all department leaders take a long-term view in preparing for planned and unplanned personnel changes, then develop a plan to ensure a sufficient stockpile of computers for new employees.
Units supported by ITS can submit requests online, and other colleges and departments should develop plans in consultation with their IT support teams.
Visit the PCPS site for more information about purchasing or the IT self-help site for information about how to use Mountaineer Marketplace to buy a computer. Other hardware, software and technology-related purchases should be submitted through the IT Purchase Request Form.
Contact the ITS Service Desk at 304-293-4444 or ITSHelp@mail.wvu.edu with any questions.