|
|
|
January 21, 2000
|
Volume 7, Number 9 |
 |
GENERAL |
|
Campus Computer Store markets its advantages
As competition continues at a fierce pace in the computer industry, the U of S Campus Computer Store is expanding its services and has launched a major initiative to let people at the University know about its competitive advantages. Store Manager Mark Jagoe says a new brochure, with the theme "Campus Computer Store – We’re More than You Think!", is now being distributed to people across the U of S. He says it outlines the special services and advantages the store offers to University employees, students and departments. Jagoe says many on campus aren’t aware of how closely the store is tied into the University. "Many people don’t realize we’re a direct part of the U of S Department of Computing Services – which is a full-service department, where all the DCS units work together to make sure all the hardware, software and training requirements are met," Jagoe says. Being a part of DCS means, for instance, that all of its 11 employees are U of S staff. They’re not high-pressure, commissioned salespeople – they’re knowledgeable U of S staff "providing very valuable pre-sales advice". Jagoe says that, as of Jan. 1, the Campus Computer Store has started a new, free hook-up service – with no-charge delivery and set-up of all new departmental computers. "We now have a technician from DCS come out, take the computer out of the box, set it up, and make sure it’s running properly on the campus network," Jagoe says. He stresses that DCS people are totally familiar with University IT requirements, "and this really gives us a competitive advantage." Other recent developments include the offering of more "site licences", which allow whole units to buy and operate new software, rather than buy a copy for each computer – thus saving a lot of money. And, a number of colleges – including Arts and Science, Kinesiology, Law, Pharmacy, DCS, and the Library – have joined a new "Microsoft Campus Agreement", which allows them to pay for software by their number of people, rather than computers – again at substantial savings. "The advantages include just one annual payment, the inclusion of all upgrades, and it’s a good way to make sure all their computers are legally compliant," Jagoe says. He notes the Campus Computer Store, like all computer stores, has a full range of supplies, such as toner cartridges, connection cables, and software. In the hardware department, the store stocks Apple, Compaq, IBM, Hewlett-Packard, Lexmark, and others. Jagoe says it’s worth knowing that the store is financially self-sustaining, and provides a valuable, free IT resource to the campus, as well as supporting desktop computing in a number of ways. Its main advantage for U of S people? Jagoe answers easily: "We’re really committed to the University, we are part of the University, and our interest is in providing quality solutions that work. We are committed to maintaining long-term relationships with departments, faculty, staff and students."
For further information, visit the web site or contact communications@usask.ca
|
||||
Next issue of On Campus News: Friday, February 4
Advertising |
