Desktop Support:

One issue of concern to users is the minimum level of desktop computer required to use PeopleSoft. The basic software tools that people use to interact with the PeopleSoft system will be Microsoft Word, Excel, and Internet Explorer. Some users will need minimal fluency with the tools, while other users will need strong competency, depending on how extensively they will be using PeopleSoft in their daily work. The Microsoft packages will run on a wide variety of computers, but may not provide satisfactory performance on older computers running Window 95 or Windows 98. If possible, users who have Windows 95 or Windows 98 computers should upgrade to higher level systems running Windows XP. ITS is investigating a number of options to help departments accelerate their desktop computer refresh programs, including aggregated purchasing based on a minimal set of standard systems, and a better computer “cascade” program for distributing used but serviceable computers across campus.

NDUS Help Desk recommends Office XP:

The NDUS Help Desk is recommending Microsoft (MS) Office XP for frequent or “power” users of ConnectND within the University System.

Macros to generate various standard letters and reports have been developed by the Student Administration project team for MS Office 2000 and XP. They should also work fine with MS Office 2003, but that hasn’t been fully tested.

The HECN software licensing program is allowed to sell MS Office 2003, but this can be “downgraded” to MS Office 2000 or XP. Check with your campus software licensing contact for more information.