CSM Academic Computing and Networking (AC&N)

"Special Use" Software Installation Policy for Computer Commons Labs

Definitions and Coverage:

This policy addresses installation of software on computer systems in all Colorado School of Mines Computer Commons labs. This document refers and pertains specifically to software (or "special use software") that is not part of the regularly available, legally licensed software provided in these labs by AC&N.

For specific information on issues or scenarios that may impact Computer Commons lab use, see AC&N Computer Commons Lab Reservation/Use Policies and Procedures.

Important General Considerations:

Computer Commons systems have been configured specifically to support CSM academic endeavors. A given feature or function that is normally available on other systems, like a home or office system, may not be available in Computer Commons systems. AC&N cannot promise that special use software will function in our labs, regardless of whether such software works on similar systems outside of our environment. The security and functionality of our systems is paramount; we must maintain the integrity of those systems above special use software.
Availability of AC&N staff that can be devoted to the installation and testing of special use software, as defined by this policy, will depend on the time of the academic year and other ongoing or special projects.
Other factors that may affect consideration for installing special use software include
- Cost
- Impact on local systems, servers, or network operations
- Amount of advance notice given AC&N for the request
- General availability of all required resources and AC&N personnel
All Computer Commons computers require user logons; software will only be available to current CSM faculty, staff and students unless you make other arrangements with AC&N.

Requirements

LICENSING - AC&N can not install special use software in the Computer Commons or labs without conclusive proof that a valid license agreement exists for the requested number of installations of a given software package. It is the requestor's responsibility to provide this proof and be responsible for any legal issues that may arise in connection with the software installation or use.
Please contact AC&N as far in advance as possible; a minimum of ten (10) working days will be required for consideration. If the software meets the criteria outlined in this policy and is approved for installation, we will require at least of ten (10) working days after we've received the software media to install and test before it will be generally available.
The duration of the software installation must be agreed upon in advance by both parties. Factors taken into consideration will include length of time the software will be needed and demonstrated need or academic use. It should also be noted if software use will be continued in subsequent semesters; all requestors must negotiate an acceptable uninstall date with AC&N. If upgrades will also be required, during original installation or subsequently, AC&N will also require that information and access.
A specific agreement to install and configure special use software for a given semester, class or event does not mean the software will remain available for subsequent semester or classes. Normal events connected to CSM's academic mission or unforeseen circumstances may require AC&N personnel to erase or "rebuild" any system if it needs to be returned to a minimum academic configuration level.
If it is determined during the testing phase that the special use software interferes with security or normal operations of the local system, a server, or network traffic, it may have to be modified or removed without notice and at the sole discretion of AC&N.
AC&N will not be able to provide user support or any other guarantee of functionality or availability for the special use software. The requestor or instructor will be responsible for providing instruction and support. AC&N strongly encourages the instructor to thoroughly test the software once it is installed and ensure it will function as required during their class or event. If testing reveals problems or conflicts with the software installation, AC&N will do what we can to resolve the issues, but we cannot make emergency repairs during a class.

Requestor Responsibilities

Demonstrate that the software is related to a CSM academic need
Thoroughly test the software and promptly report problems or issues to AC&N via the Mines Help Center
Supply AC&N with a valid, available contact and phone number for that contact. AC&N, in turn, will supply the names of at least two AC&N personnel who will act as liaisons regarding any particular special use installation.
Provide and maintain any necessary documentation; AC&N does not provide any library space for such documentation and cannot be responsible for any loss of or damages to documentation

AC&N Staff Responsibilities

AC&N will notify the contact regarding the denial or approval of requests within five working days of our receipt and acknowledgement of the request. A meeting between AC&N and the CSM sponsor, or instructor, may be required to discuss special considerations or unique configurations. If the special use software is installed, AC&N will provide the contacts with any necessary system information, requirements or restrictions (if any) placed on the software use and the duration of the installation.

Other Consideration

Does your software run on the Operating Systems currently installed on the systems in the room you would like to use?
AC&N computers have sound cards and we can supply speakers or a limited number of headphones for your class. If you need joysticks, a microphone, or other peripheral devices, please plan ahead. We do not supply these items or peripherals.
Will your class, event or presentation require a special web browser, plug-ins or version? Please do not assume things will work as you plan, but test them and make sure they do.
Can the software be run from a server or will it need to be installed on individual systems?
There is no free printing available in the Computer Commons; even class and short course participants must pay the current per-sheet rate for output sent to printers. If you need printing, let your participants know.
Are comparable products already installed on any Computer Commons system or in any AC&N lab? Check both the PCs and the UNIX labs for software.
Where will the software need to be installed? Will it be needed only on selected machines, like one connected to a scanner, or on regular lab systems? How many machines? All Computer Commons systems or a single lab? If there is valid reason to prefer a given system or lab over another, please provide that explanation to the AC&N liaisons for the project.
Will you be providing data CDs or other documentation/programs to your class? Please be responsible for all documents, data and software you require; AC&N cannot assume these responsibilities beyond the installation, testing or troubleshooting of the the software.

Questions or comments -- open a ticket at the Mines Help Center.
Wednesday, 19-Mar-2008 09:27:13 MDT