News
Boston University Chooses PC Vendor
Sourcing & Procurement, in close collaboration with Information Services & Technology (IS&T), is pleased to announce Boston University’s first PC bulk buy initiative. After a thorough selection process, Lenovo has been chosen as our preferred vendor for Windows-based laptops, desktops, and workstations.
How were the PC Standards selected?
In the fall of 2010 a PC Standards working group was formed under the direction of the Support & Infrastructure Governance Committee. This group was comprised of IT staff from both administrative and academic departments on both campuses, as well as a representative from Sourcing & Procurement. This group submitted an extensive RFI to multiple PC vendors and carefully evaluated their responses.
The initial RFI was followed by an RFP, requesting sample prices, as well as service and support options that would be offered to the university. Hardware samples were evaluated and the vendors gave presentations, allowing the group to request further clarification on responses to the RFP.
In addition to seeking a significant price break by pooling University purchases with one vendor, other equally important issues were considered. Improving service and support at the University required evaluating warranties, training, imaging services, and custom tools. Finally, in keeping with the University’s commitment to sustainability, selecting a vendor with an extensive range of EPEAT Gold certified products was important.
The PC Standards working group presented its findings to the Support & Infrastructure Governance Committee in March of 2011. Based upon scores for many aspects, such as price, support, features, quality, and service, the working group recommended that Lenovo be selected as the provider of PC standards for the University.
What Benefits do the new Lenovo Standard Configurations Offer?
Adopting any of the Lenovo standard configurations comes with benefits beyond the quality of the computer and significant cost savings:
- Four year warranty coverage on each desktop, laptop, and workstation configuration
- Provides peace of mind and helps facilitate a four or five year refresh cycle for your department
- Four year hard drive retention
- Ensures HIPPA compliance
- Priority support on all PCs
- Priority support is tied to each computer’s serial number, so no matter how you request support, you will receive a higher level of service
- EPEAT Gold Rating on all desktop, laptop, and workstations
How to Participate
- You can view the IS&T Recommended Standard Configurations by going to the following link:
http://www.bu.edu/sourcing/how2buy/computers/standards/
- Requisitions orders for standards will not require a quotation from vendor
- Don’t forget to consult with your IT support representative before ordering
How to Find Out More
- You can view a full list of Frequently Asked Questions using the link below:
http://www.bu.edu/sourcing/how2buy/computers/
- Covers the topics of Standards, Support, and Purchasing