Selecting Clerk Computers

Selecting Computers for Clerks in Local Units

We are often asked about the computers specified for use by clerks in local units. There are five criteria used to choose machines for local units, listed below in no particular order of importance.

Utility

At a minimum, computers must support the work required of clerks by the General Handbook. With the discontinuation of MLS, all required work is now completed in a web browser. This makes a Chromebook the preferred option. A Chromebook enrolled in Church Management allows the clerk to open a browser as a guest and complete all his work without needing to log into the Chromebook. If a Chromebook is not desired, a Windows computer may be ordered. In this case, the clerk will log into the machine, open a browser, and complete his work. Chromebooks and Windows machines are sized for Bishopric and Clerk related tasks. This may not be adequate for units using the device for other purposes.

Availability

We work with CDW and Dell to make ordering computers easy. We pick models that are part of the regular inventory to minimize delivery delays. Areas can order from the vendor that works best for them. International areas may order from local vendors. Computers ordered from local vendors must be capable of being enrolled in Church management for Chromebooks or being provisioned for Windows computers.

Budget

We respect the window’s mite. However, older computers in use can represent security risks for the Church if they fall out of vendor support. We recommend replacement of Windows computers every five years and Chromebooks should be replaced when the OS is no longer being updated (up to eight years).  

Security

Chromebooks offer a significant advantage in security. All history and any saved documents are erased when a guest session ends. Clerks and Bishops can create an account on a Chromebook to save documents. Only the account holder can view these documents, making the Chromebook far more secure than a Windows computer with a shared account.

Durability

We specify computers that can remain in use for at least five years. Units should leave computers on when circumstances allow to ensure that OS updates are received. Chromebooks will receive OS updates for up to eight years from the date of purchase. Windows updates depend on the age and OS of the computer. We recommend that Windows machines be replaced every five years. Chromebooks should be replaced when they stop receiving updates.