Here are some qualities to define a good technology plan from the New Mexico State Library:

• Is based on broad participation and ownership by the library, its board, patrons, and others in the community consuming the library’s technology services.
• Is consistent with the perspective of the long-range plan already established by the library.
• Has long-term goals (up to three years) and realistic short-term goals (six months to one year).
• Includes assessment of the current status of library staff knowledge, skills and abilities.
• Includes assessment of current facilities, hardware, and software.
• Includes not only assessment of hardware and software, but also assesses items such as connectivity, materials, policies, and procedures.
• Has the support of the board, the administration, and any funding bodies.
• Recognizes the full spectrum of user needs and expectations and allows for differences.
• Has a staff development/training plan to build levels of expertise.
• Recognizes changes in staffing patterns and budget allocations necessary to implement new technologies.
• Considers what it will take to maintain the equipment and other technology products.
• Recognizes a life cycle for hardware and software and anticipates updates and replacement.
• Has an explicit and well-defined evaluation component.
• Provides for periodic review of needs and plans, while allowing for revisions.

Does your technology plan exhibit these qualities? What can you do with the next plan to improve both the process and the content?