All of our teachers are local admins on their machines.
No point in getting evaluation machines since the Precision machines were almost $300 (each) over budget and the Optiplex were about $150 (each) under budget. Couldn't get the (2012 model) Precision machines within the budget unless they had the same specs as the Precision machines we're replacing.Bet the Precision would be faster. They should have gotten evaluation machines if possible to test them.
There are case studies out there showing Workstation class machines perform better in demanding task environments. Mind you, the ones I look at are focussed on CADD work versus other things.
Sounds good, but our budget is already $1k (per machine) over the standard PC replacement cost in reflection of our need for workstations. That's hard enough to justify without going back for another $3-400.The point of evaluations is to document improved performance which equates to getting things done faster which equates to money saved. The more expensive to purchase machines could be a money saver.
Maybe not, it depends on your organization. But there is more to consider than the upfront costs.
We had to do some leg work to get back in to workstation class machines a few years ago, especially when machines on contract appeared to have the same specs as the workstations.
If it were up to me, I'd give you the 400$!!!Sad thig is.... We are IT