Laptops

J-PAL North America Computer Policy

J-PAL North America will provide full-time and part-time staff with a new or used laptop. Most staff may choose between a preselected PC or Mac laptop. For some positions, such as research staff, a PC may be required due to software operating system requirements. Computers will be replaced after 3 years of use. Computers in good condition may be used as loaners.

Staff must abide by the MITnet Rules of Use when using J-PAL North America computers, software, printers and MIT’s network. Computers are configured using MIT best practices, and will come pre-installed with a number of software packages, including Microsoft Office, SOPHOS Antivirus, and CrashPlan (for backup). While we allow you to install other software, please be cognizant of risks that unverified software may present, and feel free to reach out to the Senior Operations and Data Associate with questions about other software.

Interns and Co-ops scheduled for temporary employment for six months or more will be provided with a J-PAL computer when they are onboarded.

For all employees, managers should complete a form prior to the new employee’s start date including the following: anticipated end date of term, hardware and software special needs, listserv membership, and MIT username (required for computer set-up). Managers may also request any special software needed. Requests for additional computers, monitors, software, or deviations from the standard configuration must be approved by the staff member’s manager and the Senior Grants & Financial Manager.

All damage, theft or issues with the computer should be reported immediately to jpal-na-it@mit.edu. Staff should provide complete and timely information to the Senior Operations and Data Associate in cases where an insurance claim should be filed. To the best of their knowledge, staff will not download potentially suspicious software. They will participate in and respond within a reasonable timeframe to any equipment audit request.

When an employee leaves J-PAL, they should remove all personal documents from their laptop and move work documents to a place in google drive (or another shared location as appropriate) where they can be accessed by another colleague or supervisor. They will return the computer with all J-PAL NA cords and accessories to the J-PAL NA Senior Operations and Data Associate.