Purpose: To ensure the number, type and scope of individual applications are monitored to maximize the efficiency of the technology while not creating an overly complex environment.
Procedure: Purchase and use of new applications, including those that are web hosted and not actually owned by the district require approval of the Supervisor of Technology and the Superintendent.
Among considerations are any licensing issues, purpose of application, and compatibility of the new application with the current infrastructure. The need to expand the infrastructure as a result of the new application (for example, video sharing software may need additional storage)
a. Before new applications are purchased, there is a determination of the needs of the district, a review of available solutions, a compatibility test with existing infrastructure and a determination of the needs satisfied by the application.
b. Before implementation of new applications, timelines and deliverables are established. The deliverables include what is expected of the application, training, support, and the time frame for each.
c. Before installation of new applications, back-up of systems is done in case of incompatibility and adverse reactions to the new software. Baseline information is held.
d. Hardware requirements for the new application are identified and purchased well in advance of installation of new applications, if needed. This allows for the proper testing of the new hardware. Summer imaging provides enough time to create an image of new software and hardware and to test it properly.
e. Hardware and operating systems software must be updated with the latest firmware and security updates, before any applications.