Computer Equipment Procurement Changes

7 July 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

 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.