Software Recommendations & Installation Services

🌐 Service overview

Your go-to resource for finding, evaluating, and installing software that isn't part of the university's standard offerings. Whether you're a researcher who needs a specialized data analysis tool, a faculty member looking for discipline-specific software for your courses, or a staff member seeking a solution for a unique administrative workflow — we're here to help. Our team will work with you to identify secure, compatible software options and assist with proper installation and configuration so you can focus on your work.

Why use this service?	You need software that isn't currently available on university-managed computers You've found a tool for your research, teaching, or administrative work and want to make sure it's safe and compatible with university systems You're unsure which software best fits your needs and want expert guidance You need help installing or configuring specialized software on your university device Your department or team wants to evaluate a new tool before committing to a purchase
Who can use this service?	Faculty — for teaching, research, or academic program needs Staff — for administrative, operational, or departmental requirements Researchers — for specialized tools supporting grants, labs, or collaborative projects Contractors — for university-related project work requiring specific tools
Who can not use this service?	Personal software installations on non-university devices Software for purposes unrelated to university work, teaching, or research Requests for software that violates university licensing agreements or policies Free consumer apps that do not require IT involvement to install
How do I use this service?	Submit a support request through the service portal describing the software you need and what you'll use it for Include any relevant details such as the software name, version, vendor website, and whether it's for a specific course, project, or research initiative IT will review your request for security, compatibility, and licensing considerations Once approved, we'll coordinate installation and configuration with you 👉 Raise a support request here: Software Recommendation & Installation Request

Timelines

Initial Response	1 Business day
Time to resolution	3 Business days

🔄 What to expect (process)

Request submission: Submit a support request through the service portal. Please provide as much detail as possible — including the software name, what you plan to use it for (research, teaching, administration), your device type, and any deadlines or time constraints.
Review and evaluation: IT reviews your request to assess the software for security compliance, compatibility with university systems, and any licensing requirements. We may reach out to discuss alternatives if the requested software raises any concerns.
Approval and procurement: Once the software passes evaluation, we coordinate any necessary licensing or purchasing. If costs are involved, we'll work with you and your department to confirm funding and approvals.
Installation and configuration: Our team installs and configures the software on your university device, ensuring it integrates properly with the campus network and other systems you rely on.
Verification: We confirm the software is working as expected and walk you through any setup steps or best practices you should be aware of.
Closure: You'll receive an update once the request is complete. If anything isn't working as expected, simply reply and we'll reopen the request to address it.

⚡ Quick Actions

Raise a support request here: https://laurentian.atlassian.net/servicedesk/customer/portal/5/group/58/create/212

Need help?

Contact the Service Desk online for assistance.

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