When you’re creating a technology assessment, this list might help you to get started. For more information on why you should perform an assessment see Technology Assessments.
What’s Included in a technology assessment:
- What technology skills does your staff possess? How much do they know about different hardware and software topics?
- Do you have any written policies relating to staff and public use of technology? Do you have any informal, unwritten policies?
- What are your procedures and policies with relation to data backup, computer security, purchasing, change requests, tech support, etc.?
- What’s the current state of your ILS, your Web site, your local network, your Internet connection and other key technologies? Are there any weaknesses or threats that need to be addressed?
- Who do you turn to for advice about technology?
- Who are your technology vendors and sales representatives?
- Who provides your Internet connection? How fast is that connection? What sorts of networking equipment (routers, switches, firewalls) do you have?
- What are the major technology services you provide to your patrons? Do you offer one-on-one or classroom-based technology training?
- Are you currently working on any new technology projects or services?
- A technology inventory.