Unit computer replacements: Windows or Chromebook?

Hello,

We have been told by an FM admin that the time has come to replace our unit computers. May I ask a couple of questions of you all?

1. Initially, I was referred to some document that stated that we would be assigned Chromebooks unless we could make a use-case to justify a Windows-based machine. Now, the admin is saying that the units can choose which type of computer they want. What is the actually policy on this, and where can I find it?

2. In our stake, we have 9 Lenovo ThinkCentre M710q computers and 1 Lenovo ThinkCentre M700 computer. We have had the M710q computers for a few months short of 5 years, and we have had the M700 computer for about 5-1/2 years. They don't get a lot of use, and they are in fine shape. Especially since we are not using MLS anymore, if one were to break down, substituting another would be trivially easy. It seems like a real waste to replace these perfectly functioning computers, but the admin says that they are instructed to replace them every 5 years. Is this frequent replacement cycle still justified? Is there some way to opt out of replacement? If it were up to me, I'd probably slap an SSD in them and run them until they drop. It would make sense if the Church wanted to move us to Chromebooks for security, but that's contradicted by the admin telling me that the units can choose to get Windows-based PCs (see question 1).

Anyway, I would be grateful to know what the actual current policies on these things are.

Thank you!

Yes, you have a choice. I'd poll the users to see what they use and if it can run on a Chromebook ok.

To me the big disincentive for Chromebooks is they're on a 8 year replacement cycle instead of 5 for Windows.

ulupoi wrote: Thu Feb 23, 2023 1:54 pm ...I would be grateful to know what the actual current policies on these things are.

This page has links to the FM's computer replacement cycle info = https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/too ... s-overview

This wiki page has additional basic info for clerk computers and Chromebooks = https://tech.churchofjesuschrist.org/wi ... _Computers

The announcement was sent via email to the Stake Technology Specialists

New Chromebook Option for Meetinghouse Computers

Meetinghouse computers are typically rotated every five years. When your computers are scheduled for replacement, your Facilities Manager will share a website to help determine the appropriate computers for your units.

One of the new selections available to units is a Chromebook computer. View the Frequently Asked Questions page for information about choosing between a Chromebook and a Windows PC when the time comes to replace your current computer.

The line "Please act appropriately to keep the Chromebook safe, such as keeping it locked in a drawer or closet when not in use." suggests it will be a laptop with external attachments rather than a desktop. Frankly, I think the need to put it away would discourage me.

I'd also research what the free options are for things like word processing and spreadsheets. For some reason, those seem to be considered "outside of the Handbook" when it comes to installed apps.

I would honestly be interested to see if they would ever consider Chromebases along with Chromebooks. For protection sake it would make sense but some can be quite expensive l.

Thank you for all of the information, everyone! You have been very helpful!

russellhltn wrote: Thu Feb 23, 2023 5:39 pm The announcement was sent via email to the Stake Technology Specialists

New Chromebook Option for Meetinghouse Computers

Meetinghouse computers are typically rotated every five years. When your computers are scheduled for replacement, your Facilities Manager will share a website to help determine the appropriate computers for your units.

Our FM Group is not giving us an option. They are sending regular computers.

The FAQ says this....

Should you choose a Chromebook or a Windows Computer when it is time to replace your existing computer?
Units may order either device when it is time to replace the current clerk computer. A Chromebook is the preferred option and will allow a unit to complete all handbook required tasks. A Windows Computer should be ordered when the unit is using the device for activities beyond tasks required by the handbook. Please consult with other computer users prior to making your decision and make sure to communicate your choice to your Stake or District Technology Specialist who will communicate with the Facility Manager.

That doesn't look to me like, whatever you want to do, it means, if you use the computer for other purposes (I can't image anything other than supporting webcasting, personally) but just to get that out there. All you're doing is browsing the web on it. Not like you need all that other stuff.

johnshaw wrote: Mon Jun 05, 2023 9:47 am A Chromebook is the preferred option and will allow a unit to complete all handbook required tasks. A Windows Computer should be ordered when the unit is using the device for activities beyond tasks required by the handbook.

Reading other articles, it appears that "handbook required tasks" translates to "using LCR". It appears that Word processing is not considered part of a standard computer setup. It doesn't even make the list for "Approved Applications" but is mentioned elsewhere.

Libre office is available for the Chromebook and I'm sure other free suites are as well. While MSOffice is more familiar to many users, I have found the free office suites to be very capable to do what is needed at the ward level - there is just a bit of a learning curve if one is experienced with Microsoft software.

I believe there are occasions where a clerk will need something other than a browser to complete whatever tasks are assigned to him by the bishop or stake. One that comes to mind is tracking individual payments for annual or semi-annual camps by individual (especially if other family or ward members are providing some of the funds). I have been out of the clerk saddle for a couple of years, but the church has never provided a tool to track that information inside of MLS or LCR. I guess they figure every youth will fund every camp individually and fully so the clerk can just "run a report" to see it - that almost never happens in my experience...