University of Maryland Policy and Procedures Concerning the Acquisition of Telecommunication Services and Equipment

It is the policy of the University of Maryland, College Park (“UMD” or “University”) that all acquisition by purchase, lease, or rental of voice, data, and internet communications equipment must have the prior review and endorsement of the UMD Division of Information Technology, which holds such procurement authority approval for all University telecommunications equipment including, but not limited to: voice, video, and data transmission services, including telephone, internet, email, and Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) systems, whether or not such equipment or systems interface with the existing UMD voice and data networks. All frequencies assigned by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) are the property of the University and are held by the Division of Information Technology.

“Department Representatives” are individuals authorized to review detailed service reports for their department. They coordinate and assist with voice and networking services (University of Maryland, 2024).

“Telecommunications” refers to all voice, video, and data transmission services, including telephone, internet, email, and VoIP systems.

“Telecommunications Equipment” includes devices and systems that transmit, receive, or process information electronically to facilitate communications. Examples include, but are not limited to: voice, video, and data transmission services, including telephone, internet, email, and VoIP systems.

“User” includes any individual who uses the University’s telecommunications resources, including employees, students, contractors, and visitors.
 

Proper functioning of telecommunication systems is integral to the efficient operation of every aspect of the University. This operation is the responsibility of the Division of Information Technology. In order to protect the University’s telecommunication systems and its users, any unauthorized equipment or wiring which interfaces with the University’s telecommunication systems shall be removed immediately by the Division of Technology at the sole risk and expense of the owner of the unauthorized equipment. Any damage to the University’s telecommunication systems shall be reimbursed by the owner of the unauthorized equipment.

1. The Division of Information Technology shall review all proposed acquisitions from the standpoint of compatibility with existing equipment and systems, serviceability, cost, durability, practicality, and other factors.
2. Moves, changes, additions and deletions shall be performed by the Division of Information Technology or authorized vendors. Anyone making unauthorized moves and changes which result in damage to equipment or disruption of service shall be charged the repair fee to correct the damage.
3. Departments requesting services or equipment must work with the department representative to submit a request at UMD Network and Telecommunications.

A non-University entity wishing to be connected to the University by voice or data networks must work with the Division of Information Technology to negotiate a connection agreement and may not proceed with the connection until the agreement is signed by both UMD and the other party.

University of Maryland, Division of Information Technology. (2024, August 12). Department representatives, business managers and LAN administrators - - IT Service Desk. https://itsupport.umd.edu/itsupport?id=kb_article_view&sysparm_article=KB0012421

UMD: University Policies: Policy Number: X-3.06(A) University of Maryland Policy on University Funded Cellular Devices and Service, UMD. (2023, December 18). https://policies.umd.edu/miscellaneous-policies/university-of-maryland-college-park-policy-on-university-funded-cellular-telephones-and-service