Home > Resources and Services > SIPA Computing > Picker Computer Labs
Picker Computer Center
The SIPA computer lab was first created in 1985 with a grant from the Aurora project. The expansion of SIPA's computer resources in the Nineties reflected the transition of international affairs and public administration from a qualitative to a quantitative science. In 1995, the lab was named the Picker Computer Center to honor former SIPA dean Harvey Picker, whose generous gift enabled the school to expand and upgrade its computer resources. The labs, in addition to being used for word processing, have also developed into an instructional facility providing students with the skills needed to compete in the current job market. Students learn the fundamentals of research design, measurement, and data analysis using statistical packages. Computer-based simulations supplement classroom instruction in economics and security courses, and all students can use the facility for hands-on training in financial management, cost-benefit analysis, and accounting.
To meet the school's increasing demands, the computer center has been upgraded and expanded to an instructional lab, two lab facilities, and a computer lounge. These are equipped mostly with Pentium-based systems, several laser printers on the Novell network and several scanners. The labs support programs such as Microsoft Office, SPSS, Stata, Macromedia Suite, Quark, Photoshop, ArcGIS and Internet services. SIPA's computer labs are open over a hundred hours each week during the academic year. In addition, students have 24-hour access to computers in 409 IAB and laser printers in the sixth floor computer lounge. Laptop users can connect to the SIPA network throughout the building.
Staff
SIPA computing is supported by a Network Analyst, a Systems Manager supported by two System Coordinators and a Technical Coordinator under the supervision of the Executive Director of Information Technology, and staffed with 25 to 35 trained student consultants. The audio-visual support is provided by the Manager of AV assisted by the student staff.
Software
Use of personal software is not allowed in the SIPA labs. Piracy of software is legally prohibited and we request your help in preventing it. If you need to use some special software, please discuss it with Harpreet Mahajan. Students and faculty can contact Harpreet Mahajan for special arrangements to use the lab and/or any special software and to work on group projects. Please be advised that all new software, data sets, and documentation should be made available one week in advance for installation and testing.