Rules for Computer Purchasing

Purpose

The following rules apply to the purchase of university desktop, laptop, and tablet computers.

Scope

Western Michigan University strategically partners with approved computer hardware vendors to ensure standardization, reduce costs, and deliver sustainable, high-quality service. This approach creates efficiencies in time, staffing, and technology resources. A consistent purchase request and approval process helps to deliver excellent customer service and streamlined delivery. This guidance also addresses exceptions for specialized requirements, such as those funded by research grants, that may not be met through approved vendors.  

Rule Statements

1. All related purchases must be coordinated with and completed by the designated IT support staff responsible for the areas where the devices will be deployed and maintained.
2. Requests for technology purchases should be made in writing to designated IT support staff or through the University Computer or Technology Purchase Request form at https://go.wmich.edu/s/article/University-Computer-or-Technology-Purchase-Request
3. Purchases may only be conducted from approved vendors per university contractual agreements by authorized IT personnel.
4. Financial approval from the appropriate university funding source must be obtained prior to making any purchases.
5. Purchases must include standard, price-negotiated models per university contractual agreements. Exception requests must be submitted to the technology purchasing administration team in goWMU by unit IT support personnel for review and approval.  
6. Technology devices and their implementation must comply with university technology policies, rules, guidelines, and procedures.

Approved manufacturers and vendors

• Lenovo computers and tablets through Lenovo’s EPro portal.
• Apple Computers and tablets, through WMU's Apple for Education or CDW-G.
• Other tablet manufacturers through CDW-G or approved source per University Purchasing.

Enforcement

IT personnel who fail to comply with these rules may have their access to the technology vendor purchasing portal revoked. Continued non-compliance may result in progressive disciplinary action in accordance with the University’s Employee Handbook or applicable procedures, up to and including formal corrective measures.

References

• Information Technology Acquisition Policy
• University Computer or Technology Purchase Request
• The University Computer Purchase Process for IT Staff

Document Action

Created by: The Office of Information Technology in collaboration with the Technology, Logistical Services, and the Chief Information Officer, December 2025.