Overview
Faculty who require software that is not included in the standard computer lab image must submit a software installation request through Lab Services before the applicable deadline. Software requests are reviewed for compatibility, licensing, security, and deployment requirements.
Software requests must be renewed annually by the requesting department.
Environment
JMU Computing Labs for Faculty and Staff
Troubleshooting/Resolution
Before you Begin
Before purchasing, evaluating, or requesting software for installation in a computer lab:
- Submit a Technology Solution Request (TSR) and receive the required approvals. ()
- Verify that the software supports centralized licensing and activation for use in a shared computer lab environment.
- Obtain a trial version for testing, if available.
Important: Computer labs are managed using standardized configurations and automated deployment processes. Software that requires individual licenses, per-user activation, or manual activation on each computer is not compatible with a lab environment. Concurrent, network, volume, or other centrally managed licensing models are required.
Submission Deadlines
| Semester/Term |
Request Deadline |
| Summer Sessions |
April 15 |
| Fall Semester |
July 1 |
| Spring Semester |
November 30 |
| Mid-Semester Requests |
At least 30 days before software is needed |
- Software that has not been renewed for the upcoming academic year may be removed from computer labs and technology classrooms after August 1.
- Requests submitted after established deadlines may not be available by the requested date.
Requirements for Software Requests
To help ensure successful deployment:
- Submit requests by the applicable deadline.
- Document any required settings, configurations, plug-ins, or customizations.
- Identify any special installation or licensing requirements.
- Provide installation instructions when applicable.
- Test a trial version whenever possible before purchasing software.
Lab Services can assist with temporary installation of software on a single lab or classroom computer for compatibility testing.
Licensing Requirements
The requesting department is responsible for:
- Purchasing sufficient licenses for all computers where the software will be deployed.
- Maintaining proof of licensing and license agreements.
- Ensuring compliance with vendor licensing terms.
- Requesting the most current supported version of the software whenever possible.
Software licensing must support deployment in a shared computer lab environment. Licensing methods that require individual user accounts, individual license assignments, or manual activation on each computer are not supported in university computer labs. Concurrent, network, volume, or other centrally managed licensing models are required.
Materials Required for Installation
Provide the following information to Lab Services:
- Software installation media or vendor download details.
- Installation instructions.
- License information and documentation.
- Required settings or configuration details (if applicable)
- Vendor support contact information, if available.
A backup copy of installation media may be retained by Lab Services; however, the requesting department remains responsible for maintaining access to software and licensing information for future installations.
Testing and Support Responsibilities
After installation, the requesting department should complete testing prior to the start of the semester whenever possible and:
- Verify that the software functions correctly in the lab environment.
- Confirm that all course assignments can be completed using the installed configuration.
- Report any issues identified during testing.
Lab Services can assist with deployment-related issues. Functional testing, software troubleshooting, and vendor coordination remain the responsibility of the requesting department and instructor.
Additional Information or Notes
Contact Paul Williams at williaph@jmu.edu to confirm software requirements, compatibility and to discuss any other requirements.