School of Computing

IT Committee

General principles

Software

Software versioning

1. Where possible, we will try to ensure that the latest version of software is installed.
2. Generally, upgrades will only be made during the summer vacation. If you have a special request for software to be upgraded sooner, please ask.
3. We will try to have the same version of software available in all labs, but for some expensive software with limited numbers of licences we operate a roll-down policy.
4. The above policy is dependent on sufficient funds being available to buy software upgrades.

Hardware

Cordless mice

1. We will only order cordless mice where there is a pressing case why a conventional mouse is not appropriate. This is because of the problems associated with stocking batteries for them, and the increased theft risk.

Student access

During timetabled classes

Our general policy is that staff should allow other students to use machines that are not being used by the class, with the following reasonable caveats:

1. if necessary for the good management of the class, students not in it may be asked to move to a specific part of the room;
2. occasionally, there may be a very good reason for making an exception to the general rule (e.g. if an assessment is in progress), but staff should always make the other students aware of the specific reason why you're asking them to leave (and not just "there's a class");
3. students should be treated with civility at all times.

See also

Index of Computer Facilities for use by SOC students

CAM Computing Strategy

Last updated by Dr Jim Briggs of the School of Computing at the University of Portsmouth.