Purchasing a mobile phone

From what companies can I buy a mobile phone or smartphone?

If you are purchasing a mobile device using UM funds, you are generally restricted to "vendorized" sellers, just as with any other purchase.  Currently, that limits you to AT&T (formely Cingular), Sprint-Nextel or Verizon. 

Phones are purchased directly from vendors by departments, using a P-card or a Purchase Order.  (Computers are generally purchased for departments by Medical IT under an IDR.  Medical IT cannot purchase phones for you or your department.)  

If you are purchasing a mobile device with your personal funds, the choice of vendors is entirely up to you.  Visit the web site or the bricks-and-mortar store of the company whose products you prefer.

What companies can I use for mobile voice and data services?

As with phones, if your department is purchasing voice/data services for you with UM funds it  must generally be from a vendorized source.  As noted, that limits you to AT&T, Sprint-Nextel or Verizon. 

Voice/data services can be obtained from whatever company you prefer if it is a purchase using your personal funds.  Under a special arrangement with AT&T/Cingular we currently offer a web store for discounted personal purchases.

Normally, of course, you will be purchasing a phone and the voice/data service from the same source.  Mixing and matching phones and phone services is generally discouraged by the pricing structure and may even be prohibited by the vendor.

Who can process purchase requests for UM-funded phones and services?

Only the persons in your department who are authorized to use the department's P-card or sign Purchase Orders can actually purchase phones and services for you.  If you're not sure who that is, contact Medical Purchasing at 305-243-6607 to get the name of your department's contact person.

What kinds of phone purchase support does Medical IT provide?

To repeat, Medical IT cannot purchase phones or voice/data services for you or your department.  However, our staff can advise about which phone to choose and what data plans are suitable.  For more information on choosing a mobile phone, click here.

We can also help you with setting up the phone you choose to access your Exchange email or other campus network resources.  Typically, that is best done by calling the Help Desk at 305-243-5999 and asking to speak to a mobile phone specialist. 

In many cases, setup can be done over the phone, without need for a physical visit by you (or your phone).  For more information on the setup process, click here.