Suggestion:

Get computers which work
Get printers which work

With working computers & printers, this could be a great computer lab.

Right now, it is just a waste of time.

ILC Response:

The ILC does buy computers that work. We also install computers that work. There is an important distinction to remember between the computer not working and not knowing how to make the computer work. On the other hand, unacceptably old computers tend to fail unacceptably often, but funding to replace them is not forthcoming. When problems do arise, individuals are responsible for informing us of the situation so that the problems may be addressed at the earliest opportunity. Inexperienced, impatient people often exacerbate minor problems. Selfish individuals knowingly cause problems on our computers from time to time. All of these things tend to result in the computers, which we bought working, which we installed working, not working. Finally, events such as network failures and blackouts also tend to have negative effects on our computers.

The ILC also buys printers that work. Unfortunately they are sometimes used by people who, out of naivete or malice, render them nonfunctional. Actually, the ILC purchased the most reliable and sturdy printers that could be found for use in the ILCs.

In general, we would like to state that the ILC staff invests a great deal of time planning hardware acquisition and installation. We also spend a great deal of time trying to correct problems when they develop. Our understanding of the situation is that we provide computers for the campus to use, and the computers do not remain functional, not out of any shortcomings in the hardware or methods used in installing them, but because over time they are abused by irresponsible individuals. We find anonymous comments like these to be offensive both in tone and in content. We are more or less resigned to the fact that our computers get targeted for the release of people's frustrations, but we draw a line when those attacks cross over and are directed at ourselves professionally.

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