Request a Software or Technology Review

Use This Request To

Use this request to have a new or renewing software product, app, or online service reviewed for data security and accessibility before you buy it or put it into use.

When to Use This

Use this offering when:

  • You want to start using a software product, app, or online service that Bowdoin does not already provide.
  • You are buying or subscribing to a new tool for a course, for research, or for your department.
  • You are renewing or expanding a product that has not been reviewed before.
  • A vendor, grant, or funder requires a security or accessibility review before you can proceed.
  • You are weighing a few options and want them checked before you commit.

When NOT to Use This

Don't use this offering if:

  • You just need software you already have access to installed on your computer. Use Software & Applications in the Related Services section.
  • The product is already available at Bowdoin. Check the College-Provided Software List in the Related Articles section.
  • You are buying hardware only, with no new software. Use Technology Purchasing in the Related Services section.
  • You are reporting a problem with software you already use. Use Report a Software Problem under Software & Applications.

Before You Submit

Having these ready speeds up the review:

  • The product name and the vendor's website.
  • What you will use it for, and who will use it (just you, a department, a class, all students, and so on).
  • What kind of Bowdoin data it would use or store. See the Data Classification Policy in the Related Articles section if you are unsure. "I don't know" is a valid answer on the form.
  • Any vendor documents you have: a HECVAT (security) or a VPAT or ACR (accessibility). You can attach them, or submit without them and we will help request them.
  • The cost, if you know it, and your desired start or go-live date.

What Happens Next

We acknowledge your request within 1 business day and create a tracking record for the product. The security and accessibility reviews run at the same time, and Purchasing joins in if you are buying something. A full review usually takes 1 to 2 business weeks. We will confirm a target date and follow up with any questions or documents we need. When the review is done, we tell you the outcome and any conditions, and connect you with next steps for installing or purchasing.