FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions 

1. When do I need to submit a Technology Assessment form?
   1. 90 days, or with as much lead time as possible, before the intended acquisition of a new technology product.  
   2. 90 days, or with as much lead time as possible, before the intended acquisition of an upgrade or add-on module for an existing technology product.  
   3. 60 days, or with as much lead time as possible, before the intended renewal of an existing technology product.
   4. 30 days before additional licenses of an existing technology product are needed.
2. What if the recommended timeline has passed?
   1. Submit the form as soon as possible and select the date/deadline that it is needed. 
3. What if the technology product is free?
   1. Technology Assessment is for all technology regardless of cost, number of users, or where it is hosted. 
4. The technology product I need is already in use. Why do I need to submit a form?
   1. Technology products, standards, protocols, policies, and laws change over time and must be assessed periodically. 
5. The technology product I need is used by another UT or other Higher Ed/Health Institution. Why do we need to do a full assessment?
   1. UT Tyler may intend to use it differently than other institutions. For example, we may intend to store sensitive data.
   2. Technology products that are highly mature, widely used, and have a history of being secure and effective products overall will likely be easier to assess and approve. But an assessment is still required. 
6. Why has my technology assessment not been completed?
   1. Sometimes we need more information. Please check emails from itsupport@uttyler.edu and go to My IT Requests to respond.
   2. We rely heavily on requestors to obtain information form the vendor. Hint: Vendors respond faster to the users as compared to IT and Information Security.
   3. Additional approvals may be needed. 
7. Where can I find a list of software already in use and approved?
   1. Please see IT Related Purchases.
   2. The Technology Assessment process will help us build out a more comprehensive list that we will publish over time. 
8. What is a Voluntary Product Accessibility Template (VPAT)?
   1. Accessibility - VPATS | ServiceNow 
9. Where can I find assistance if I need it?
   1. When you receive confirmation email from itsupport@uttyler.edu, please click on the link to the DMND ticket that was created. Review and respond to requests or questions as needed (see question 6 above).
   2. Go to My IT Requests to get a status and respond if necessary. 
      If all else fails, please contact David Christian at dchristian@uttyler.edu.