WebJunction

Technology planning is important no matter what your library’s size and budget.  Some practical elements to keep in mind when approaching technology planning for your library include:

1. Make the most of being small.   Generally speaking, being small means less red tape, which means being able to move quicker during the planning and implementation phases. 
   
2. Set goals.  If you don’t set goals you’re not likely to achieve.  Write out your top ten goals and ideas, post the list near your desk, and be on the lookout for opportunities to address your goals as you go through your work day.  Once you have a handle on what you want to accomplish, you’ll find opportunities will present themselves.
   
3. Keep It Simple Sally (KISS).  The smaller your organization, the more important simplicity becomes.  Don’t let yourself get bogged down by trying to craft an intricate plan
   
4. Details aren’t always a priority.  Sometimes details can get you stuck on the wrong path as well as waylay a plan that needs to progress.  Don’t be afraid to keep your plans and goals general to give you flexibility and momentum.
   
5. Rome wasn’t built in a day.  Start small and build on your plans.  A technology plan should be a living document, so start with what you know and add to it as your knowledge grows and your library’s needs evolve.
   
6. It is never too late to learn.  When it comes to understanding technology, many use excuses such as, “It’s too complicated.” “It doesn’t pertain to my community and their needs.” “I/we don’t have time.” “I’m too old…that stuff is for kids.”  These excuses aren’t valid.  Anyone (particularly library employees) no matter what their age and background needs to grow their technology knowledge. Try this technology learning tip:
   
   1. Go online and search for three or four library technology-related websites and/or blogs (i.e. WebJunction and Tame the Web).
   2. Bookmark these sites or create a shortcut on your computer’s desktop (If you’re really adventurous, learn how to use an RSS feed reader).
   3. Make a point to visit these resources at least once a week.   You’ll likely double your knowledge of technology in a month’s time.  Don’t worry if the content is over your head.  If you are persistent, the knowledge will come.
   4. Consumer technology magazines are also a good place to absorb the latest information.

• Pick the low hanging fruit first.  The easiest fruit to pick are the ones within your reach.  Start with the easy tasks and build on those successes.  Having success with the simple elements will enable you to build momentum and additional buy-in and support, making it easier to get people on board for the more difficult projects.  Financial supporters are also more likely to give money where they see success is already brewing.
  
• There isn’t one cookie cutter way to plan.  Every library’s situation is unique and therefore every library’s approach may vary.  Grasp the essential elements of technology planning and adapt to your library’s circumstances.

For additional information and tips on technology planning see Technology Made Simple (ALA Editions, 2007) by Kimberly Bolan and Robert Cullin.