Getting a cell phone
SPSTech is able to procure cell phone (primarily iPhones) through CUIT for SPS staff.
1. If you need a cell phone, contact your manager for approval.
2. Forward their approval along with an account number to spstech@columbia.edu
3. SPSTech will review the request with SPS Finance and SPS Human Resources. Please note that cell phones are provided to employees on a case by case basis, pending review of both whether a cell phone is needed for the role and budgetary approval.
4. SPSTech will then place an order request with CUIT. Once the phone has arrived, SPSTech will provide assistance through the setup process. If you already have an iPhone, your phone's settings and data can be backed up using iCloud and then restored onto your new phone.
iPhone Security
Ensure that additional security measures including Find my iPhone (https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/find-my-iphone/id376101648?mt=8) and password protection on the lock screen are enabled.
Note: Password Protection can be enabled by going to [Settings] -> [Passcode Lock] -> [Turn Passcode On], and then entering a 4-digit password to lock your phone.
Repairing an iPhone
Due to SPSTech's inability to perform repairs on broken iPhones, it is the responsibility of the user to bring the iPhone to an authorized Apple repair provider. The user can consult with SPS Finance about reimbursement for the cost of repairs. Any reimbursement will likely be charged to their department budget.
Global Plans
If you are going to travel internationally for work, it is possible to activate a global data and voice plan for your phone with the approval of your supervisor. Send a request to spstech@columbia.edu at least 5 days prior to travelling. For more information on the costs associated with global plans, visit CUIT's International Services page.
Cell Phone Replacement
Cell phones are replaced to a new model on a 3 year cycle. If the cell phone is damaged before the 3 year cycle, SPSTech will replace the cell phone with the same model. The replacement cost will be charged to the department. This policy applies to all cellphones, not just iPhones. Old cellphones to be replaced should be returned to SPSTech (room 106a) for recycling or reuse.
Mobile Hotspots
SPS Staff members who frequently travel for work can request to have their cell phones activated as mobile hotspots. Mobile Hotspots are domestic only and cost $15.00 per month. This policy applies to all cellphones, not just iPhones.
Porting Personal Phone Numbers to CUIT Billing
With their supervisor's approval, an employee who has already been approved for a cell phone can have a personal number can be ported to CUIT billing so that the individual doesn't have to carry two devices. There is a porting fee of $200 that will be charged to the department account. When an employee leaves Columbia they can request SPSTech release the number to their personal account. An employee with a CUIT provided phone number cannot take that number from CUIT billing to their personal billing or to their new job.