What is the new government decree about?
The Quebec government has mandated that all public institutions must purchase computers under a province-wide contract. Hewlett Packard (HP) is the designated supplier.
Why is McGill affected by this?
As a public institution, McGill must comply with this decree. The contract aims to ensure competitive pricing and standardization.
What types of devices are covered by the contract?
- Included: New computers and monitors
- Excluded: Used computers and monitors, servers and mobile-OS tablets (iOS/Android)
How do I purchase HP devices?
Use the MicroAge-DIL punch-out catalogue in McGill MarketPlace (MMP). It includes all HP products under the contract.
Are there any exceptions to this requirement?
Yes. Off-contract purchases are permitted if:
- The purchase does not use University operating funds or Quebec government-funded research grants/contracts/donations.
- The purchase is required for specific academic or research needs that the HP models under contract cannot meet.
How do I document an exception?
You have to:
- Purchase via MMP
- Complete an Interim Compliance Attestation and provide justification for your purchase (this process is automated in MMP when you initiate the purchase of an off-contract device) -Ensure the device meets IT standards (login required) and is EPEAT Gold registered
What brands are available for exceptions?
The off-contract brands currently available in MMP are Dell and Apple. Other brands may be added upon request and review by Procurement Services.
What about used computers and accessories?
These can be acquired via McGill’s circularity initiative (see the reuse eligibility criteria – login required) or acquired from external sources. If purchased externally, used devices must still meet IT standards and preferably EPEAT Gold as well.
Do I still need to register the device?
Yes. Until integration with the IT asset management system is complete, registration is still required.
How do I get pricing for Dell models with more-advanced specifications?
You can write to the Dell Sales Account Manager for Universities: mariam.idrissi [at] dell.com
Will I still get educational discounts from Dell, given they are no longer under contract?
Yes, Dell continues to offer educational discounts to university customers. The discounts vary depending on the model and total amount of the potential order.
How do I get pricing for Dell models with more-advanced specifications?
You can write to the Dell Sales Account Manager for Universities: mariam.idrissi [at] dell.com
How do I get pricing for Hewlett Packard models with more-advanced specifications?
You can write to the authorized reseller Sales Account Manager for Montreal: commandes [at] microage-dil.ca
How do I know for sure which operating funds, research grants, contracts or donations are received from the Quebec provincial government or its ministries?
Generally, funds identified as “1A Fund Type” are funded by the Quebec provincial government. Research grants that are identified as FRQ or CFI-MES are also funded by the Quebec provincial government. This guidance is intended to provide general direction. However, other fund types may be funded by the Quebec provincial government. If there is any uncertainty, please reach out to your local FST member (or AEC) for support.
What brands are available for exceptions?
The off-contract brands currently available in MMP are Dell and Apple. Other brands may be added upon request and review by Procurement Services. In all cases, the IT standards (login required) apply and EPEAT Gold registered or better must be maintained.