Overview
With technology constantly changing and allowing for different and more powerful applications, there is a need to plan for upgrading and replacing equipment. Due to the high cost of replacing equipment it becomes imperative that strong consideration be given to adequately address this area.Maintenance
Maintenance of equipment has been and is a crucial component of effective use of technology. If the technology is not working properly it will not be used. The efficient repair and replacement of broken equipment is vital to the successful use of technology.There are two basic options for the District to repair and maintain equipment. The most cost-effective option is to use internal personnel to maintain and repair equipment. Currently, the District has a department staffed with knowledgeable technicians to respond to the needs of the District. With the increasing needs of the District this service will need to be expanded as needed. Where specialized skills are required or needs are not on-going, an alternative option is to “outsource” equipment to be repaired by a vendor.
Upgrades
In order to maximize equipment availability, a maintenance schedule has been developed for upgrading and modifying existing technology in order to meet future needs. Desktop systems will be replaced on a four-year cycle. Laptops, which tend to have a shorter life-span, will be replaced on a three-year cycle.
Recommendations
- Investigate the efficacy of a “help desk” to respond as a first point of contact for technical difficulties.
- Implement a schedule for systematically updating and upgrading systems and software.
- Certify technicians to do warranty work on new systems.
Benefits
An adequate support system (including a help desk) can remedy most computer problems (for software and hardware). This will provide for more efficient and effective use of the technical staff.