Basic Technology Plan Strategy

Note: The FCC Sixth Report and Order changed the technology plan requirements. When applying for E-rate discounts on any Priority 1 services, a technology plan is no longer required. However, if an applicant is applying for E-rate discounts for services/products under the Internal Connections and/or Basic Maintenance of Internal Connections (Priority 2 services) categories, a technology plan is required.

Schools and libraries that plan to apply for E-rate funding must have an approved technology plan if requesting services other than basic telephone service. More than just an E-rate requirement, an effective technology plan can play an important role in facilitating change and enhancing education for students and library patrons.

As you are developing your plan, remember that it can encompass up to a three year period. Therefore, the plan should be specific enough to adequately address your goals, but it should also be flexible enough to allow for changes in specific technologies over time. Also, limit the involvement of outside parties in your tech plan development, especially service providers who might later sell you services or equipment. Their involvement in the technology planning process should be limited to general advice concerning potential services, applications, or network types. Service providers should not sit on the planning committee or prepare the actual technology plan.

After you have completed your technology plan, it should be submitted for approval to the USAC certified technology plan endorser. The plan should be drafted before you start the E-rate Form 470 and the competitive bidding process. The technology plan must be approved before you begin receiving your E-rate discounted services.