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ITC, Microsoft sign deal for significant software rebate

The University, along with several other Virginia schools, has signed a deal with Microsoft Corp. that will allow the inexpensive purchase of software for computer labs and faculty computers.

The University did not decide independently to work with Microsoft but is participating in a statewide program, said Anthony D. Townsend, Information Technology and Communication Standards coordinator.

Townsend said other participating schools include William & Mary, Longwood College, Mary Washington College, Virginia Commonwealth University and Piedmont Valley Community College.

Under the contract, University departments will be able to purchase Microsoft software at a substantial discount from normal educational prices.

For example, a copy of Office 2000 would normally cost $175 under regular academic pricing, but under the contract the University will be able to purchase a copy for under $16, Townsend said.

Students will not be eligible for the cheaper purchase prices, he said, but will still benefit since "lower costs for software at U.Va. should help keep tuition costs down."

He added that the University will not be able to assess the amount of money it will save until ITC officials know how many departments and faculty members intend to participate in the program.

Participation in the contract is voluntary, Townsend said.

Richard F. "Chip" German, ITC Policy and Planning director, said the contract is the best way to provide the most software for the cheapest price.

"There are other ways to get software," German said, "and most of them cost a lot more money."

He said the policy will benefit students because it will enable faculty members to update their software on a more regular basis, providing them with better educational opportunities.

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