This article explains the hardware purchasing process for Faculty and Staff at Kellogg. For this KIS laptop and desktop options, refer to our Hardware Options for Faculty and Staff article.

Contents

• Steps to Purchase a Computer
• Purchasing Timeline
• Software
• Data Transfer and Online Data Storage
• Ergonomic Accessories
• FAQs

Steps to Purchase

• Browse Available Hardware
  View the computer models and accessories available for purchase here.
• Contact KIS
  Need help choosing a computer? We're happy to recommend options that meet your needs and help initiate the purchase in iBuyNU.
• Ready to Buy?
  If you already know what you want, email us the model name and the name of your department’s authorized purchaser (ask your department manager if you're unsure).
• KIS Creates the Cart
  We'll build a cart with your selected equipment and any required or requested accessories, then assign it back to your department in iBuyNU.
• Department Approval
  Your department reviews and processes the purchase request.
• Order Delivery & Setup
  Once the order arrives, KIS will prepare the equipment and reach out to schedule a data transfer and pickup (or delivery for desktops).

Purchasing Timeline

Note: Due to the current industry-wide supply chain problem impacting component availability, manufacturing and delivery times, it will take longer for your order to be delivered.

Once your computer and accessories are delivered, KIS will notify you and begin the configuration process. This includes installing standard software (see the section below) and setting up the device for the Kellogg environment. We’ll then contact you to coordinate your data transfer. Depending on the volume of data and scheduling availability, the full setup process may take 5–10 business days from the time your computer arrives at the KIS office. After the data transfer is complete, we'll schedule a time with you to ensure you:

• Have all your files.
• Can sign into your email and cloud backup (if applicable).
• Are comfortable with the new features/functionality of your new computer.
• Have your new computer and accessories set up at your desk (for orders with desktops, monitors, and laptop docking stations only).

Software

The standard software that KIS installs includes:

• Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, Outlook, PowerPoint, OneNote)
• Microsoft Teams
• Zoom
• Adobe Acrobat Pro
• Google Chrome
• Mozilla Firefox
• KPrint
• Microsoft OneDrive for Business (secure file storage)
• CrowdStrike (security program)
• GlobalProtect virtual private network (VPN)
• MECM for PCs or JAMF for Macs (System Management)
• CrashPlan (secure cloud backup)

More information on standard security software and settings is available in our Kellogg computer security article, and additional software is available at the Northwestern IT software site.

 

Data Transfer and Online Data Storage

Using online storage greatly reduces the amount of time it takes to transfer data to your new computer. We recommend utilizing Microsoft OneDrive to store your university files and folders.

 

Ergonomic Accessories

We recommend getting a workstation evaluation with the ergonomic specialists at Northwestern University's Office of Risk Management.

 

FAQs

Q: I took equipment home to work remotely some days. Can KIS set it back up in my office?

A: Staff members are responsible for returning their monitors and computing accessories to their office and reconnecting them as they were before. They should only contact KIS if they have technical difficulties after they have completed the setup. 

Q: How can I get an update on my order? 

A: To get an order status, follow up with your department purchaser; they receive monthly updates regarding their open purchase orders and can contact the vendor, at any time, to inquire about the status. Once the computer arrives (generally 1-3 weeks for standard, in-stock computers; 4-6 weeks for custom orders), KIS can begin setting up the computer for you.

Q: What happens to my old computer once I get a new one?

A: Old computers are turned in to KIS to be retired when replaced. In special circumstances, departments coordinate with KIS on whether to re-purpose, recycle, or donate out of warranty Kellogg-owned equipment. Please check with your manager for more information. Whenever equipment changes hands we update records, run software updates, and remove data. Data security is of utmost importance so we will wipe all devices prior to donation or recycling.

Q: How often do you update the list of recommended computers?

A: We make major updates once a year based on new model vendor release dates and product availability. Our new models are usually available at the beginning of the academic/fiscal year (September).