Question:  I am a volunteer for the United Way of Houston. Can I use the computer in my office and the office copy machine to produce material for United Way?

Answer:   No. While UHCL encourages employee involvement in the community, resources in your UHCL office should not be used to support external organizations.

Question:  My son calls me each day when he gets home from school. Since it’s a personal call on a UHCL owned phone, am I breaking any rules?

Answer:   No.  As a general rule, the personal use of any UHCL property or asset is prohibited; however, incidental personal use of email, telephone, or the Internet that complies with applicable UHCL policies, and does not result in additional cost is okay.

Question:  May I use my computer to look at web sites for personal reasons?

Answer:   Maybe.  Although infrequent use that does not impact your job performance or violate any other University policies is allowed, the UHCL has a limited capacity for Internet use. Your personal use, if excessive, could restrict legitimate business uses of the Internet, resulting in your not having sufficient time to do your job, and ultimately resulting in additional cost for the University. Personal use should be kept to a minimum.

Question:  I am a faculty member.  May I use a University computer to write a textbook/software from which I and not the University will profit?

Answer:   Yes.  Writing of professional articles, textbooks, or computer programs is considered part of a faculty member’s obligation toward effective teaching and scholarship and public service. Writing a definitive text or research article furthers the interest and reputation of the University as well as the individual.