IT Standards
Information Technology (IT) sets standards for computers, cellular devices and service, endpoints, and peripherals to ensure:
- Compatibility with supported operating systems and endpoint management services
- Implementation of required cybersecurity controls
- Automated operating system and software updates
- Centralized software deployment
Additionally, standards are necessary to support responsible budget planning.
Standards and Processes
Computer Standards
Computer standards take the following into account.
- IT prioritizes support for Windows Operating System compatible computers.
- Laptops capable of running Windows are prioritized for employees.
- All-in-One computers capable of running Windows are prioritized for classrooms, open computer labs, event spaces, and specially identified business purposes.
- Laptops or All-in-One computers capable of running Mac Operating Systems may be available based on approved, documented business justifications.
Standard Computer Comparison
| Feature | Windows Laptop (Standard) | Windows Desktop (All-in-One) | Mac Laptop | Mac Desktop |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Typical Model | Dell Pro 14 Plus | Dell Pro 24 All-in-One | MacBook Pro (14”) | iMac (24”) All-in-One |
| Manufacturer | Dell | Dell | Apple | Apple |
| Best For | Most employees, flexible work | Fixed or shared workspaces | Approved Mac-specific needs | Approved Mac-specific needs |
| Operating System | Windows 11 Enterprise | Windows 11 Enterprise | macOS | macOS |
| Mobility | Portable | Not portable | Portable | Not portable |
| Memory | 32 GB RAM | 16 GB RAM | 24 GB unified memory | 24 GB unified memory |
| Storage | 512 GB SSD | 512 GB SSD | 512 GB SSD | 512 GB SSD |
| Camera & Microphone | Built-in | Built-in | Built-in | Built-in |
| Monitor Included | Built-in 14 inch | Built-in 24 inch | Built-in 14 inch | Built-in 24 inch |
| Docking Provided | No | Not Required | No | Not Required |
| Keyboard & Mouse | Built-in | Included | Built-in | Included |
| Lifecycle Eligible | LCR program | Supported when approved | Supported when approved | Supported when approved |
| Warranty & Support | 4 years | 4 years | 4 years | 4 years |
Peripheral Standards
Peripherals such as external monitors, docking stations, printers, keyboards, and mice may be purchased by departments. Review the IT standards for peripheral devices prior to requesting a peripheral quote.
| Peripheral | Description | Typical Use |
|---|---|---|
| Webcam | External webcam with built-in microphone for video meetings and remote collaboration. | Employees who need improved video quality beyond a built-in camera or use an external monitor. |
| Wireless Keyboard with 10-Key | Full-size keyboard with numeric keypad. Batteries are not included and must be provided by department. | Employees who frequently work with data entry, spreadsheets, or financial systems. |
| Wireless Ergonomic Keyboard | Keyboard designed to promote a more natural typing position. Batteries are not included and must be provided by department. | Employees who need improved typing comfort or ergonomic support. |
| Wireless Mouse | Standard wireless mouse designed for everyday use. Batteries are not included and must be provided by department. | Employees who need general productivity and ergonomic support. |
| Wireless Ergonomic Mouse | Wireless mouse designed to support a more natural hand position and reduce strain. Batteries are not included and must be provided by department. | Employees who need improved comfort or ergonomic support during extended computer use. |
| USB-C Hub Adapter | Adapter that expands a laptop’s USB-C port to support additional devices. | Employees who need extra ports for monitors, USB devices, or other peripherals. |
| Thunderbolt Docking Station (Dell Laptops) | Docking station that allows Dell laptops to connect to monitors, keyboard, mouse, and network using a single cable. | Employees using Dell laptops with multiple peripherals or external monitors. |
| 65W USB-C Power Adapter | Standard power adapter compatible with Dell supported laptops. | Replacement power adapter. |
| Laser Printer (Color or B&W) | Standard office laser printer designed for document printing. | Departments or offices that primarily print text-based documents such as reports, forms, and internal paperwork. Departments should consider whether ClawPrint will meet needs before purchasing an office printer. |
| Wacom Intuos Tablet (Small) | Compact pen tablet used for drawing, handwriting, and precision input. | Light creative work, digital note-taking, and annotation. |
| Wacom Intuos Table (Medium) | Larger pen tablet providing more workspace for detailed creative tasks. | Graphic design, illustration, and more advanced creative workflows. |
| IPEVO | Portable USB camera used to capture and display documents or objects. | Presentations, demonstrations, and instructional use. May be used to record videos. |
| Laptop and Desktop Locks | Locking devices are used to secure laptops and desktop equipment to a desk or fixed surface. | Employees or departments in shared, open, or public spaces that require added physical security. |
Additional Note: For Laptop and Desktop locks, employees are responsible for maintaining the key or combination for any assigned lock. If a key is lost or the lock cannot be opened, the employee or department is responsible for remediation costs, including lock removal and repair of any damage caused during removal.
Monitor Standards
| Monitor Size | Type | Best For | Docking Station Built In |
|---|---|---|---|
| 27-inch | Flat | Standard office use | Yes |
| 34-inch | Curved | Multitasking and split-screen work | Yes |
| 38-inch | Curved ultra-wide | Advanced multitasking | Yes |
Cellular Device and Service Standards
IT provides approved iPhone models available through the Verizon program.
iPhone models outside of the approved list are not available for purchase or upgrade through the GGC cellular program.
Other Types of Cellular Devices:
- Cellular hot spots require business justification and approval of the Vice President for Information Technology and Institutional Research or designee.
- Devices other than cellular phones that require cellular service require a business justification and approval of the Vice President for Information Technology and Institutional Research or designee.
All GGC issued cellular devices are IT-managed devices.