The University of North Carolina General Administration (UNC-GA) has announced a new Combined Pricing Initiative (CPI) for campus desktop and laptop computers purchased with state-appropriated funds. The CPI was developed in response to Senate Bill 202 passed in 2009, which requires campuses to save money and improve efficiencies by consolidating UNC system information technology (IT) purchases.

The mandatory CPI program combines the purchasing power of the entire UNC system, giving all campuses the benefit of reduced prices on a range of standard desktop and laptop computer configurations intended to meet universities’ diverse computing needs while reducing the total cost of ownership. The CPI also includes energy-efficiency requirements, which will help reduce energy use in university buildings as required by state law.

NC State’s Purchasing department, campus representatives and OIT are working to implement easy-to-use procedures for campus. These are expected to be in place by the end of July. More information is available at the NC State Consolidated IT Purchasing Web site.