Ever gone to an Iowa State computer lab and been forced to stand in line?

As more course work is requiring the use of computers, some students are finding it increasingly difficult to gain access to the machines they need, but school officials say that’s a problem that won’t go away anytime soon.

“Iowa State will never have a sufficient amount of computers,” said Frank Poduska, interim consulting and publications manager at ISU. But, Poduska added, despite the growing gap between supply and demand of computers on campus, ISU’s computer availability is comparable to other universities.

“The Mac and PC labs have one seat for every ten students. That is comparable or above average to other institutions,” he said. “It’s harder to get money now. There is more competition with other programs for available money. The budget is dwindling.”

ISU officials say they are doing all they can with the resources available.

“I think we do a very good job with the budget we’re allowed,” said Ron Grooms, a systems analyst and head of Disabled Users Services at ISU. “Of course labs will be filled during busy times.”

Grooms said computers are now required use for most majors.

“Computers are friendlier now. Using them is not quite as awesome of a task.”

Some students have also complained of out-of-date equipment, but Poduska said that’s to be expected.

“There are always going to be computers that are not able to handle the newest software,” Poduska said. “Our intention is to upgrade every year, in order to always have labs capable of running the new stuff.”

ISU tends to hang on to computer equipment for three to five years, so there will always be some old equipment, Poduska said.

Poduska added that there is not enough help for computer users. “I manage the help rooms and I see the long lines,” he said. “We’re hoping to change that.”

Grooms said a shift from desktop computers to laptops is also in the works. “We will see more portability,” Grooms said. “I think we all see that coming. Students will begin to take care of their own access.”

Poduska said the computation center is already experimenting with portable computers. But as computers become more portable, Poduska said, the responsibility of supplying equipment will shift to the student.

“The role of the computation center will shift. It’s always shifting,” Grooms added. “But there will always be one. I believe Iowa State exceeds the standards at other institutions. But that is up to the students to decide.”