Software Policy

Reviewed by: Physics IT Policy Committee, currently under review.

The introduction of any new software can have many additional costs over and above the purchase price and once installed can have a major impact on the effectiveness of the network environment. As a result there is a significant amount of work required in assessing and testing software before the decision to acquire new software is made. In some cases products are requested without consideration to what tools are in use already.

Before adding

Before a user attempts to install (or request installation) software the following needs to be checked:

· The user must check if the software is already present on their system or available from the network. Lists are available on the Physics Support website - www.physics.usyd.edu.au/itsupport.

· The user must have a good reason why they are requesting the software package (i.e. why existing/alternative software is not appropriate).

· Software installed by a user on their computer is the sole legal responsibility of the user. The School takes no responsibility for the software, any damage it may make or license implications caused through its use.

Requesting new software

When making a request for software users need to take the following into consideration:

· All free software is the responsibility of the user, Physics takes no responsibility for its correct operation (i.e. staff will not debug freeware).

· Purchase of any licensed software must be discussed with a staff member before purchase. Physics reserve the right not to support any software purchased without consultation.

· The user needs to advise whether the software is to be used by one or many users, so that a cost effective license, deployment and maintenance can be organised.

Custom (in-house) software

Software developed within the School.

· Custom software is the responsibility of the user. Staff can, however, assist in the deployment of the software or patching systems for its use (within limits).