Published December 28, 2015 This content is archived.
Here's an udpate on two important issues that affect UB researchers: Electronic Certification (eCERT) and using federal award computing devices for other tasks.
We understand your frustration with Electronic Certification (eCERT) and communicate frequently with RF Central, looking for long-term ways to simplify and improve the process. In the meantime, we are working on several short-term solutions to alleviate the situation:
SPS Operations Specialist Sara Piper can help you with eCERT. Contact her at sarapipe@buffalo.edu or 645-2977. Improving eCERT is a top priority.
The Office of Management and Budget updated the regulations in January 2015, changing the use of computing devices purchased with federal funds. In summary, section 200.453-c states the following: "Materials and supplies used for the performance of a Federal award may be charged as direct costs. In the specific case of computing devices, charging as direct costs is allowable for devices that are essential and allocable, but not solely dedicated, to the performance of a Federal award." [emphases added]
The bottom line is that a computing device that is essential for a federal contract / award also can be used for other tasks. While there is no specific guidance on percentage usage or other metrics, the key is that the computer device was "essential" in being acquired for the sponsored program funded by a federal award. Please use good judgment on this new ruling, and if you have any questions, please reach out to SPS Directors (Marlene, Don or Mary).
A computing device is defined as "... machines used to acquire, store, analyze, process and publish data and other information electronically, including accessories (or peripherals) for printing and receiving or storing electronic information."
UB students and non-UB staff who need access to the Click Portal can register for an account here.