Principle 21 - Infrastructure -
Hardware and software choices
Hardware and software for administrative use must be limited to predetermined
set of alternatives. This includes the end-user's desktop, application or software
servers, communications components, applications development tools, and data
management tools.
 Rationale
Penn's next generation of administrative systems, as well as personal productivity
software, must exploit the power of the desktop. Penn cannot continue to limit
functionality by creating systems that are forced to implement to the "lowest
common denominator" of our diverse environments. Without standards to limit the
number of choices, information technology costs will continue to increase. More
limited choice will also enable more effective support.
Implications
- Organizational units that do not use standard choices will bear the costs
of overcoming incompatibilities with the next generation of administrative
systems.
- Early communication of standards and education programs for both developers
and end users is required.
- Functionality, robust product interoperability, and the level and quality
of support should be strong enough to serve as incentives to buy the standard
products.
- The set of supported products will be reviewed on a scheduled basis and,
with consensus from the Penn community, updated as necessary.
- Strategies and incentives, including staffing and funding, are necessary
to assist departments in migrating from older hardware and software as newer
standards emerge.
- Individuals who perform academic as well as administrative functions must
comply with the standards. Additional hardware or software may be required
to support academic functions.
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