Technology

Software Installation Requests

All computers in Simmons classrooms, labs, and general access spaces are running Windows Vista and Microsoft Office 2007 or Mac OS X 10.5 and Microsoft Office 2008. Please be sure that the software you request is compatible with either Windows Vista or Mac OS X 10.5. See the software list for details about what is already installed in classrooms, general access spaces, and labs. Please see upgrade for additional information.

Only Technology staff are able to install software. This means that you must complete a Software Installation Request Form, at least 5 business days before your class or event, in order to have software installed.

» Software Installation Request Form

To improve efficiency and flexibility, whenever legally and logistically possible, we would like to install as much of your required software onto all classroom and general access/lab computers. This enables students to use discipline-specific software in a variety of locations.

How do you know if you should fill out a form?
Please fill out a Software Installation Request Form if you have software or files that you need installed on general access (i.e. Library Information Commons and Residence Hall Labs), lab or classroom computers. Such software might include:

  • discipline-specific software
  • software that comes with textbooks you assign
  • software for which Simmons has a site license
  • special files, add-ins or plug-ins to accompany software

When in doubt, err on the side of filling out the form, or give the Help Desk a call to talk it through (617-521-2222).

What if I need the software installed in more than one location?
To prevent Simmons from violating license agreements, Technology will only install the number of licenses your department has purchased. Departments bear the cost of discipline-specific software. Please see Software Standards: Academic/Accepted Software for additional information. In some cases it may be legal to "key serve" software for which Simmons owns limited licenses, allowing us to install it in multiple locations while limiting the number of simultaneous users. If you think this may be an option for you, please call the Manager of General Access and Lab Computing (617-521-2762).

What is the process?
As soon as you submit your Software Installation Request Form, you will receive an automated email confirmation containing all of the choices you made on the form. Shortly thereafter, you will receive an email from the Help Desk containing the Technology work order number for your request. Please reference this number when calling the Help Desk (617-521-2222) to check on the status of your request. The Help Desk will pick up the media and license information from the person you list as the "Media/License Pick Up" person on the form. Once the installation is complete, you will receive an email notification.

What if I don't know whether my software is compatible with Windows Vista or Mac O X 10.5 (Leopard)?
To avoid putting Simmons computers at risk, we cannot install software that is not compatible with the new operating system(s) or Office suite(s), if there is a tie-in. Before you begin testing, please check with the manufacturer of the software to see whether you need to upgrade your software in order to ensure compatibility. We have a test station available in the Self-Help Clinic (located in the L331 suite) where you can install your software (with or without Help Desk assistance). To reserve a time to use the test station, call the Help Desk at (617) 521-2222; be sure to have your installation media and licensing information when you come!

For more information about the Window Vista, Mac OS X 10.5, and the Microsoft Office upgrades, see upgrade.