U of M Launches Responsible Printing Initiative in Student Computer Labs

The "Responsible Printing Initiative" (RPI), implemented January 12, 2004, is designed to fairly distribute the printing resources in U of M student computer labs. Each student will receive an allotment of 500 pages every semester funded through the Technology Access Fee (TAF). Any unused pages will roll-over to the next semester. Students will also be able to purchase additional pages in 500 page increments for $25.

The RPI was developed in conjunction with the Student Government Association with the primary goal of reducing waste and eliminating abuse. It was designed to fairly and equitably distribute printing resources. In the previous year, about 25 percent of the paper printed in student computer labs was immediately discarded. This amounted to two million pages of wasted paper.

An analysis of lab printing in recent years also reveals that a high percentage of the paper is actually consumed by a small percentage of the student population. In fact, 3 percent of lab clients account for 25 percent of the total pages printed each year.

The RPI makes provisions for "emergency" allocations of additional pages for printing. Requests for emergency allotments are handled by either the TigerLAN computer lab attendant or the ITD Helpdesk (124 Administration Building).

Additional information about the Responsible Printing Initiative can be obtained via the Ask TOM knowledgebase (http://asktom.memphis.edu) or by contacting the ITD Helpdesk (678-8888).

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