Faculty Computing Policies

Faculty Members should also review our General Policies.

Each voting faculty member is entitled to one computer--either a desktop with a monitor or a laptop--for their use while employed at GSD. Mac, PC laptop or desktop are determined by CRG staff in consultation with the faculty member.

Computers are typically on a three year replacement cycle. Variances from this pattern are only made in special circumstances, with agreement from the Director of CRG. All computer, peripheral equipment and special software requests need to be made in writing, before July 1st each year, for the next fiscal year.

Visiting faculty are given access to shared computers in their offices. These computers are for word processing, internet access, and email. More advanced work (CAD, GIS, images, etc.) will need to be performed on public computers.

Local printers are not provided to faculty, but networked departmental printers are typically available.

Computers acquired by GSD faculty for teaching or research, with any funds (including grants, etc.), are the property of Harvard University (GSD). They are insured and maintained by the CRG. They are to be used for academic or research purposes only. Any computer or associated peripheral equipment over $250.00 in value, bought through grants or with Harvard funds need to be reported to CRG, to be accounted for. Excluding laptops, equipment cannot be removed from GSD. Equipment disposal, after its life cycle must be done through CRG.

Any work of a commercial nature, for private or fee-based work, is inappropriate on the GSD network, computers, printers, laser-cutters, etc.

Most software, except for MS Office, is distributed to all GSD community via the GSD network. A limited number of software licenses are available for short term loan via "key check out" or local installation with prior notification, upon approval of the Director. All software installed on GSD computers, should be legally installed ("freeware," or duly licensed by CRG).

If you have your own ISP, an additional 'VPN' account, which allows access to all keyed GSD software, may be acquired through CRG (provided by Harvard University UIS) for a small monthly charge.

Please back up your own data and email. Hard drives do fail. Computer software and operating systems can be restored by CRG, but data and email are the end users' responsibility. CDRW's, zip drives, and/or network space is available for this purpose.

Helpdesk is the central clearing point for all assistance or suggestions. Come to Room 520, call 6-3810, or send email to helpdesk@gsd.harvard.edu. Assistance is available Mon-Fri 9-5, except for holidays. Helpdesk does not make house-calls outside of the GSD.