Computer Equipment Procurement Changes

Update: April 1, 2026
Updates to specialized funding sources:

Research-Funded Computer Equipment
Standardization mandates are removed for computer equipment purchased through research funds. You may order in SupplyNet, use a Corporate Purchasing Card or continue to use IST.

Professional Expense Reimbursement (PER)
If you are eligible for the Professional Expense Reimbursement (PER), you may procure computer equipment through the university’s approved vendors or through a vendor of your choice.  Purchases must be made using personal funds and then submitted for reimbursement with receipts.

July 7, 2025 

Beginning July 7, all new computer equipment (laptops and desktops) — including standard and specialized equipment – are requested through IST using the new  Computer & Accessories Request Form.  For further assistance in filling the form you may call 780-492-8000.

IST will connect with you, assist with the purchase, deployment and ongoing support and maintenance needed throughout its lifecycle.

This shift enables the university to:

• reduce cybersecurity threats by standardizing on secure, supportable devices;
• improve turnaround times and equipment delivery;
• streamline support and reduce administrative overhead; and
• enable more consistent, cost-effective purchasing university-wide.

Cybersecurity is a shared responsibility. Recent examples on our own campus highlight the importance of secure procurement practices. Devices operating outside IST’s ecosystem are harder to monitor and protect. By centralizing procurement, we reduce those risks and respond faster when issues arise.

What’s new

• All computer purchases (laptops and desktops) are procured through IST’s Computer & Accessories Request Form. For further assistance in filling the form you may call 780-492-8000;
• Quotes for research grant purposes will also be available via the form;
• A pre-approved list of devices is available to simplify ordering and ensure timely delivery;
• PCard and SupplyNet purchases for computers are no longer permitted. See P-Card Eligible and Ineligible Expenses. 

 IST is committed to working collaboratively with researchers and departments with specialized computing needs, whether that’s integrating lab equipment, enabling high-performance computing, or sourcing non-standard configurations.

More information and FAQs can be found on the Computer Equipment Procurement Initiative page.