To the Editor:
It is my responsibility to address issues related to the computer labs and classrooms. The Printing Charges Frequently Asked Questions sheet distributed in the labs (quoted by Ms. Pitcairn) was to try to answer the most pertinent anticipated questions. I would like to address some comments included in her article.
“Is the University really losing that much money from something as simple as paper?” USM spends over $70,000/year for paper and toner for the computer labs and libraries only. Toner often costs more per average printed page than paper. Inkjet printing could cost more per page because of ink cartridges and paper at average retail prices.
The notification screen that comes up in the lab when you print is just that – information. It was implemented for two reasons: 1) to educate users that a change was coming; and 2) to test the software process to solve problems before the charges begin. Nowhere in the screen does it suggest that it is a survey. The screen will be modified to be more “user friendly.”
When implemented, every user will get a screen notifying them of the number of pages sent to the print queue and the resulting charge. They are given the opportunity to accept the charge or cancel the print job. Students are given the responsibility to make a conscious choice.
To the suggestion of increasing the Technology Fee to cover the increased printing expense: Is it fair to charge every student for printing via the Tech fee, or only those who actually utilize the service? The majority of students utilize the other computing-related services even if they never use the main labs. Instructors use Blackboard or university e-mail to disseminate information outside of class; materials are made available online; classes are held in computer classrooms, students register or check grades online, etc.
I welcome your feedback ([email protected] or 780-4029) and thank you for the opportunity to address my concerns.
Carol Currie Sobczak
Microcomputer Operations Manager
Software Services