Jane,
Speaking for the Open University DSA Office (operating as an LEA for Open
University student's DSA applications and awards) I can confirm that we have
no 'base price' for a PC. This would seem unworkable given the range and
types of PC equipment needed for OU students. We work to quotes provided by
Needs Assessors in most cases, though we do question prices if they appear
unreasonable in comparison with what is being provided. Either way, the
student tends to get what is needed at a sensible cost.
The Department for Education and Skills have acknowledged the views of the
National Federation of Access Centres and Suppliers that 'cheap isn't best'
and indeed, it can be a false economy.
There is a trend away from using high street suppliers because they are
often unable (or unwilling) to provide backup support to students when
needed. The Open University selects it's suppliers on the basis of the whole
package - that is PC + backup support. I won't name any suppliers here, but
the ones we use have a proven history in providing a quality service to our
students and they are willing to provide a favourable support package.
When things go wrong - technically the student owns the equipment and should
be encouraged to expect their supplier to resolve problems. We ask them to
speak with us if they feel they are not getting the service they need from
their supplier. When that happens we usually wade in to resolve the issues
around disputes.
My view on premium advice lines would be that they offer in part, a clear
indication of the supplier's overall 'ethos'. Our best suppliers offer
freephone advice services.
I hope this helps
Steve Clayton
DSA Manager, The Open University
> -----Original Message-----
> From: Dudley, Jane [SMTP:[log in to unmask]]
> Sent: 06 February 2002 11:42
> To: [log in to unmask]
> Subject: LEAs and providing equipment
>
> I'd be interested in receiving your views on a situation I have recently
> encountered.
>
> I provided a quotation to an LEA for equipment for a student recently.
> The
> quotation was for reasonably standard equipment (PC, scanner, printer,
> office and dragon, whale mouse, 17" monitor and a talk mic). The
> quotation
> went off to the LEA for consideration and the LEA wrote to the student
> outlining in detail what they had allowed. The allowance was a lot less
> that the quotation (£700 less). I spoke to the LEA who told me that it
> was
> common practice for some LEAs to have a base price for a PC and this is
> the
> amount they would pay. What are your views on this?
>
> Would students be able to get the complete package from a high street
> reseller to the exact specification?
> Will the student get a reasonable support package with the equipment or
> would they have to call a premium rate call centre for advice?
> What about when things go wrong and parts of the equipment do not work
> correctly together - who picks up the pieces?
> etc. etc.
>
> Regards
> Jane
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