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| GCC Sophomore Kaylene McCannon enjoys the new space at HTC1. |
From "The Pit" to "Computer Commons", HTC1 facelift almost complete
"It promotes an improved study environment, and that's what we went for", says Jeff Necker of GCC Technology Support Services. One of the major changes that facilitated this goal, per Necker, was the redesign of the work spaces from pod-like groupings to rows of desks. This new arrangement still allows small numbers of students to work together, but discourages larger social groupings that often cause disruption. New furniture that coordinates with the overall color scheme of aqua and gray contributes to the comfort and enjoyment of the surroundings. Necker says these colors were chosen to create "an open, welcoming environment".
Other changes have impacted how students experience the new HTC1. Staff assigned to answer students' questions are now located at one central desk, making them easier to find and more approachable. A large video monitor above the desk provides information such as hours of operation and facility rules. Probably most significant, however, is the addition of 144 Lenovo computers that has eliminated the "towers" previously on the floor. Not only were the older models in the way of and often kicked by users, but they also made it more difficult for staff to keep the area around them clean. For those who prefer to use their own computers, new areas have been created specifically for that purpose. Necker felt that it was crucial to provide this option: "Having your own device, having your own work with you is now the key to success in college".
There are some issues remaining, however. In addition to the usual touch-ups that one would expect under such circumstances, students and staff are required to go to another building to use the restrooms. Although the HTC1 restrooms are expected to be open in 1-2 weeks, the current situation is a considerable inconvenience as students must pack up all of their belongings each time they leave the building.
Except for this matter, GCC Sophomore Kaylene McCannon is impressed with the transformation. She cites the addition of comfortable seats and sitting areas, larger working spaces around the computers, and more places to use her laptop as being the most positive modifications: "It's quieter than the Student Union now, the chairs are more comfortable, and it's very clean".
Faculty and staff have also felt the impact of the redesign. Although instructional spaces remain for the photography and digital arts departments, all other previous classrooms have been eliminated. These areas will now be occupied by the Office of Information Technology (OIT) which includes the following departments: Service Desk/Technical Support, Network Services, Operations, and Applications. Previously, OIT units were scattered in different areas of campus. Necker says that locating OIT in one building will improve efficiency: "All of IT will be together in a collaborative work environment".
Although some OIT staff have not yet made the move, all are expected to be relocated by the end of this month. On September 30th, a formal ceremony is scheduled for staff and invited guests to celebrate the transformation of a building that had seen no significant changes for 26 years.
In the meantime, Jeff Necker says that students are welcome to provide feedback about HTC1 to the service desk or to him, personally. Just don't call it "The Pit".
