It is Monday morning, and you take a seat at your desk to start a productive week. You press the power button on your computer and begin to work. However, have you thought about your user responsibilities? Each user must realize the fundamental importance and recognize their responsibility for the safekeeping of the technology resources. It is YOUR responsibility to educate yourself on the user responsibilities discussed below:

Am I a user? Yes. All employees using technology resources to fulfill their job responsibilities are considered users.

Do I need to know employee user responsibilities? Yes. Each user must be knowledgeable of and adhere to the following:

• Policies, laws, contractual obligations, and appropriate ethical standards, AND
• Respect the rights of other users by minimizing unnecessary network traffic that might interfere with the ability of others to make effective use of shared technology resources.

Who is responsible that employees are aware, understand, and comply with policies and procedures surrounding technology resources? You are responsible. Additionally, in the case of staff, it is the responsibility of the immediate supervisor.

Can I use technology resources for private and/or commercial purposes? Excessive personal use of the computer and network resources is considered misuse of technology resources. Technology resources must be used for job-related activities assigned. If a user would like to use technology resources for private and/or commercial purposes (i.e. consulting activities), the user must reimburse the University at a rate consistent with those charged to outside groups for similar use.

Can I use technology resources for political activity or for the purpose of trying to influence political or legislative action? You may not use public time, money, facilities, equipment, materials, supplies, networks, systems, or other public resources. Although you may engage in political activities outside of work, it is a good idea to clarify that your endorsement is as a private citizen and not as a representative of the University of Montana.

Can I use my User ID to view information not related to my job duties? Unauthorized use of computers and Users IDs, or use of User IDs for the purpose(s) other than those for which they have been issued is considered misuse of technology resources. Technology resources must be used for job-related activities assigned.

What will happen if I misuse technology resources? Misuse will result in disciplinary action appropriate to the misuse, up to and including termination of employment.

Now, after taking five minutes to refresh yourself on your user responsibilities, you can take a drink of warm coffee and go about your day.

If you have questions or concerns or are unsure about proper user responsibilities, contact your supervisor and/or ask the committee.