A big part of putting a technology solution in place involves the preparatory work on the location of equipment, electric power, ventilation, etc. The locations selected must accommodate both the equipment and the people who will use it. Prerequisites include good ventilation and breathable air, comfortable temperature ranges, usable lighting, easy access, safe passage around wiring and equipment, etc. You will note that this example assumes that the "technology solution" refers to the placement of hardware. Thus, there are different issues depending on the solution being applied. For instance, if you are going to place network cabling in a school, how would that be accomplished without disrupting the instructional program? A well considered process, as exemplified below, is the key.

Knowing the Characteristics of a Good Site
Once reasonable locations have been established, there are a number of additional elements necessary for making a room practical to use, including:

• Controlled access using security locks for doors and windows and careful monitoring.
• Physical restraints such as nailed down tables, and the ability to lock equipment to tables.
• Sufficient and properly grounded electric power connections.
• Sufficient space for maintaining and fixing the equipment, as well as for using the computers.
• No nearby water pipes that could leak or burst and cause irreparable damage.
• Sufficient lighting for maintaining and using equipment, but with minimal annoying reflective light.
• Easy access to peripherals such as printers.

Please review these Helpful Hints in site selection and preparation.