Implementation of fee-based printing in student computing sites

ABSTRACT

After years of providing no-cost printing in its computing sites, the University of Delaware (UD) decided to move to a fee-based printing scheme for its student computing sites. This paper discusses the development, testing and implementation of this system, as well as campus reaction to the prospect of paying for something for which they had not previously been charged.In 2001, printing costs rose more than 25%. Professors post class notes, syllabi, homework and exam solutions, and e and ven entire textbooks on their course websites. Despite the high level of computer and printer ownership among UD students, approximately two-thirds reported using sites primarily to print. Moreover, a lot of paper was being wasted. More than six million pages were printed during academic year 2002. These factors lead to the decision to implement fee-based printing.Since all students have a flexible spending (Flex) account associated with their student ID which can be used for campus services, it was decided to charge these accounts for printing. After extensive research, we chose VendPrint printing software. The vendor was willing to customize the software to meet our needs, including developing an interface to the Blackboard Transaction System.Initial testing began during the summer of 2002. By the beginning of fall 2002, the application was implemented in all Information Technologies (IT) student computing sites. At each of eleven sites, students claim their jobs from a central release station before it is sent to the printers. Over winter break, the Blackboard interface was implemented, requiring students to swipe their ID to release print jobs, although their "Flex" accounts were not charged. This system is currently in place and data is being gathered and analyzed on a monthly basis. So far, the process has gone smoothly with little resistance. Beginning in the fall 2003 semester, students will be charged for printing.

INDEX TERMS

Primary Classification:
  K. Computing Milieux
  K.3 COMPUTERS AND EDUCATION
      K.3.0 General

General Terms:
Human Factors, Management, Verification

Keywords:
cost recovery, printing, usage statistics