How to Buy Technology Hardware and Software at the University of Richmond
From the computer replacement program to keyboards, monitors, and software, many University employees have questions about how to go about purchasing technology. Here is a quick guide for University employees to buying technology hardware or software.
Computer Replacement
Primary computers are replaced by Information Services (IS) every four years. Information about computer replacement, including a breakdown of when every department’s computers will be replaced, can be found on SpiderTechNet. And Information Services provides a standard set of applications for Windows and Apple computers, including Microsoft Office 365, Zoom, Google Chrome, and the Cisco Secure Client VPN software.
Specialty Software
Some positions require software beyond the standard set of applications. If an employee needs a specialty or non-standard application, they can submit a request through a form on SpiderTechNet, or they can contact the IS Help Desk (804.287.6400 | helpdesk@richmond.edu) for support.
Purchasing Hardware
Occasionally there is a need to purchase technology hardware. Simple things like keyboards and mice can be bought through the Amazon catalog in Workday. If the technology is a computer, or if it has either computational capabilities or data storage, it must be procured through Information Services. IS reviews hardware specifications for compatibility and security, and it verifies whether IS will be able to provide support for the device post-purchase. Hardware requests can be made through SpiderTechNet or by contacting the Help Desk.
Funding for Technology Purchases
For most specialty/non-standard software or computing technology hardware purchases (other than an employee’s primary computer), the cost is covered by the employee’s departmental budget. Information Services will provide the cost for the item(s), and the department will need to provide its Cost Center ID to make the purchase. In a few cases where the University has been able to save money, the budget for some software procurement has been centralized within Information Services. That is why neither the software or hardware request forms on SpiderTechNet require a Cost Center ID to get the purchasing process started.
For Faculty: Grants, Chairs, and University Funds
Faculty with grants, chairs, or any type of University fund cover the costs for their technology needs through those associated budgets. It’s worth noting that computers purchased with these funds are classified as secondary systems, and they are not funded for replacement. Information Services can help find a system that meets the technical requirements specified by the faculty member. And if someone needs help determining the specifications for a system, IS can help with that too. Just contact IS Procurement to get started.
Technology Purchasing Questions
Thomas Farrar, IS procurement coordinator, can answer faculty and staff questions about purchasing hardware or software. “A question at the beginning of your technology purchasing journey can make for less work for everyone down the road and accelerate acquisition. Please be in touch with your technology procurement questions,” Thomas says. Thomas is available via email (thomas.farrar2@richmond.edu) or telephone (804-287-6508).
Information Services is dedicated to providing technology support for all aspects of teaching, learning, scholarship, and operations at the University of Richmond. “We make it possible for people to do their jobs,” says Thomas. Results from the 2026 MISO Survey of faculty and staff indicate that the UR community feels well supported. 89.5% of faculty and 90.9% of staff said they were somewhat satisfied or satisfied with desktop/laptop computer replacement, and 93.3% of faculty and 96.9% of staff indicated they were somewhat satisfied or satisfied with overall computing services at Richmond.