Designing Technology-Intensive Space

Facilities Check List
Practical, step-by-step guides for the busy FM
January 2003

Designing Technology-Intensive Space

When the purpose and function of a space depend on the technology incorporated within it, that space is considered technology intensive. Such spaces often perform specific functions, such as a sound editing suite or a server room. Technology-intensive space differs from standard office space not only in the level of technology, but also the infrastructure needed to support that technology.

The nature of technology-intensive space is constantly evolving. Because of this, increased flexibility is becoming a major consideration in many technology projects. The following list of questions can help you when designing technology-intensive space. When considering each question, think not only about how you would answer it today, but how it might change in the foreseeable future.

1. Define the intended function of the space.

• How will people use it?
• How will the equipment support the use of the space?
• Analyze work flow, paper flow, work surfaces required, clearances between various function areas, etc.

2. What equipment will be needed for the space in order to meet its intended function?

• List the equipment, initially by generic name and function. Once the equipment has been identified, list the equipment by manufacturer, model number, physical dimensions, service area dimensions, Btu/hr. heat output, watts, amps, and any special electrical considerations, such as a dedicated circuit and special plug.
• How will the equipment be configured, or placed, in order to function in relationship to other equipment in the space? Analyze work flow.

3. What environmental considerations must be made in order for the equipment to operate properly?

• Temperature ranges: Will supplemental air-conditioning be required?
• Humidity: Will a specific humidity level be required?

4. What cabling considerations are there?

• What types of cabling must be used?
• How will the cabling be routed throughout the space? In cable trays, ladders, conduit, or bundles secured to the ceiling slab in the plenum?
• If cables are to be run in a return-air plenum, the cabling will need to be fire rated.

5. What other architectural and design features are to be considered in order for the space to function properly?

• Lighting: What type of light fixtures should be used? What kind of lighting controls are appropriate?
• Finishes

1. Should the floor surfaces be carpet, tile, or paint?
2. Will carpet or tile require antistatic properties?
3. Are acoustical wall treatments — acoustical wall panels or fabric wall covering applied to gypsum board partitions — required?
4. Will an upgraded ceiling tile be required to achieve a certain NRC (noise reduction coefficient) rating?

• Partitions

1. Is special partitioning required to achieve a specific NRC or STC (sound transfer coefficient) rating?
2. Will the partition need to be slab-to-slab?
3. Mechanical issues may have to be addressed, such as soundproofing ductwork or installing fire dampers in the slab-to-slab wall if a certain fire rating must be maintained.
4. Are there any critical acoustical considerations that should be integrated into the architectural and engineering design and drawings? If so, bring in an acoustics consultant early in the design process.

This installment of FM Check List is adapted from BOMI Institute’s Technologies for Facilities Management, a course in the Institute’s Facilities Management Administrator (FMA) designation program.