Changes are coming to CMU reservations
Changes are coming to available technology equipment, specifically checkout laptops as part of a room reservation, in the Comstock Memorial Union (CMU). Beginning November 10, the CMU will have a limited number of checkout laptops available. Because the data have indicated that most people bring and use their own computers or tablets, the Event Services staff in consultation with the IT Department has decided to decrease the number of checkout laptops in the CMU to allocate resources to other needs, such as updated projectors and media carts. Beginning on November 10, checkout laptops must be requested a minimum of three business days (Monday through Friday) in advance so we have enough time to prepare the requested equipment.
What does this mean for departmental meetings, presentations or events?
We are committed to ensuring that all users of the CMU have access to technology needed for events and meetings. That being said, because the University has provided laptop computers or tablets to many of the staff and faculty across campus, we ask that you use that resource for your events and meetings. By using those resources available to you, we can be certain students and student organizations have access to the limited number of checkout laptops. Another avenue for laptop checkout is through the IT Help Desk – faculty and staff can request a laptop using their checkout process.
How could this impact my meeting or event?
We still have checkout laptops available in the CMU; we will simply have fewer that are readily available for check out on short notice. We need to know three business days prior to your meeting or event that you need a checkout laptop so we can guarantee the needed equipment. For those who follow the proper process for reserving space and requesting technology, we do not anticipate any negative impact on meetings and events.
What about large events that require multiple laptops?
As long as you communicate the number of laptops needed while we work together to plan large-scale events, we will use our resources and the IT Help Desk laptop checkout system to ensure that your needs are met.
What does this mean for student organizations I advise?
We are committed to ensuring that students and student organizations have access to the technology needed for events and meetings. Though we are encouraging groups to use personal laptops or tablets if possible, as many groups are already doing, we will still check out laptops to groups as needed. Groups that bring personal computers or tablets can and will be provided projectors and connection cables – all you need to do is request them as part of the reservation.
Is there anything else I need to know about the change?
We are willing to work with you to make sure you have the necessary equipment for your meeting or event. Please plan ahead and communicate your needs at the time you are making your reservation – we are here to help you!
If you have questions or concerns, please contact Braden Kuznia, Assistant Director for Event Services at braden.kuznia@mnstate.edu or 218-477-5814