Our IT Staff says desks which locate the monitor below the worksurface are a bad idea. They claim that the monitor is hard to see and equipment is difficult to service. How do we counter this argument?

This question points out the variety of ergonomic needs that must be examined.

Hi - Since the ideal training environment is obtained by balancing the Seven Elements of the CBT Learning Environment (we list these seven factors in the Design Studio Design Philosophy and Mission Statement), it is important to recognize the role of the IT department and the fact that they are generally understaffed and always pressed for time. Since the goal of a CBT classroom is to provide training, what is best for the student is best. However, unless the equipment is kept in working order, the classroom won't function well - so we had better listen to the experts.

SMARTdesks has endeavored to address equipment and network maintenance issues and offers many standard and optional features which solve a great number of problems. Our student desks are designed to allow the complete removal of the desktop without compromising the stability of the base - enabling totally open access to equipment and cable channels for annual equipment maintenance and network wiring changes. When this isn't practical, we offer a rear access panel option for accessing CPU connections and a maintenance trolley to provide a platform for accessing the CPU when opening the case.

Many times, techs find it difficult to see the monitor screen when using desks with a sub-surface monitor configuration during maintenance tasks. This is understandable for a number of reasons: The lights are set at a bright level, The task involves a posture different from entering and using data, the screen has a black background and white characters which is the most difficult to see through the monitor window's tinted glass.

I've often seen the monitor pulled up through the cut-out and resting on the worksurface when classroom network maintenance is in progress. OK, that's one solution. A Mobile Network Maintenance Desk with a SR or DT monitor that is moved from room to room might be another. A third solution involves resetting the screen colors. It is important, however, that the IT department understands that the main purpose of the furniture is to enhance the learning experience and any accommodation they can add will only make it better.