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| Consulting |
1. Getting Started with Your CTC
2. IT Strategy
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1. Getting Started with Your CTC |
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Urban Tech provides technical assistance to build capacity and prepare for successful implementation of the program. This offering includes a site visit, comprehensive planning, and the following services:
Physical inspection of the site:
Urban Tech will visit the site to tour the locations that are being considered by client for the CTC. At this time Urban Tech provides a checklist of project activities and a timeline for successful implementation of the center. This includes defining the electrical requirements, selecting an Internet Service Provider (ISP) and telecommunications services, identifying the security measures that need to be taken, and providing a basic room layout. During this onsite visit, Urban Tech will also advise the site on selection of key personnel
for the CTC and will set up a plan for successful operation of the CTC.
Site preparation and pre-installation planning:
Careful preparation of the facility will be accomplished by the client with technical assistance from Urban Tech. This step includes designing the space to accommodate furnishings and computers, power outlets, phone connections and adequate security measures. The client selects, orders, and schedules delivery of telephone and Internet service which must be active before installation of equipment. Urban Tech can also provide the hardware and software for the CTC that will be assembled, pre-installed and pre-tested before shipping to the site. This avoids on-site installation problems (defective equipment, missing parts, etc.), which cause time delays.
Getting Started with Training:
Urban Tech will assist the client in surveying the neighborhood to determine optimal class times and computer curriculum offerings, and in developing policy and procedures for the center. Urban Tech will provide tools that will help in managing the site's operations and tracking outcomes in the following categories: center utilization, user satisfaction, and job placement and retention.
Post installation support:
There is a series of additional services that Urban Tech provides after site installation to assure that the center is sustainable over time. Urban Tech continues to reach out to the administrator and trainers after the installation and training to answer questions about the operation of the equipment, give tips for conducting computer training, and share "best practices". Urban Tech also assists the site in creating marketing materials, gathering information for the community's web site, and researching funding options. Urban Tech provides a team of experienced technicians via a toll free help line to work with the center's technician to get the highest level of support from local telecommunications providers; diagnose hardware and software problems that may occur; and provide technical support and maintenance of the computer center.
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| 2. IT Strategy |
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Urban Tech assists the client in creating strategies and plans for adapting and innovating in today's changing environment and preparing communities for full participation in the technological job and business opportunities of the 21st century. To do this, Urban Tech will provide the following services:
Community Outreach and Planning:
During this site visit, Urban Tech will facilitate a meeting of community leaders and residents who will be the stakeholders of the CTC. Urban Tech will explain the benefits of technology and its application to community development programs - youth development, job training, business formation, and networking community resources. The participants in the planning session will list the assets in the community and identify partners for leveraging and sustaining the center. The session participants will identify funding sources, workforce development initiatives, colleges and universities, and neighborhood associations that can contribute to the success of the CTC. Urban Tech will complete a detailed plan for setting up the CTC.
Assessment of the Technological Capacity of the Community Organization:
Urban Tech will provide expert consulting for developing the physical, administrative and training infrastructure for computer training in the community. This includes the number and location of CTCs, the number of computers in the home, and the number and type of training programs offered to residents.
Planning for Technology in the Community:
Urban Tech will conduct meetings with community leaders to identify the technological needs of the community and develop a strategy that addresses capacity building, direct services, advocacy and physical change as it relates to bridging the "digital divide" in communities.
Building a Virtual Community:
Urban Tech will assist communities in using technology to create networks with other community organizations (schools, churches, and government services) and to mobilize the community to address safety and quality of life issues such as crime prevention, anti-gang strategies, academic improvement, truancy prevention, job training and mentoring programs for youth. Urban Tech will also advise communities on using community training centers and telecommunications networks as a catalyst for local economic development.
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