These are often hidden costs and a source of some concern for those given the responsibility to manage such facilities. One obvious solution to this would involve the hiring of additional labour to support the dedicated facility. A suggested compromise solution is therefore to look to develop computing facilities that are within sufficient proximity of the law school so that they are used by law students but not used exclusively by the law school so that costs can be shared with other departments, or with the Central Administration. Indeed there is anecdotal evidence to suggest that large numbers of Universities are adopting this approach to computing facilities. Since the original 1991 report, many law schools have joined with other disciplines within their own institution in support of such ventures.
Law students have to compete with students from other disciplines for space or time.
However non-dedicated equipment appear to offer the HE community the best value for money and support can be offered centrally. The only challenge faced in this scenario is ensuring adequate timetabling arrangements. This solution would be more appropriate if implemented at a University-wide level. This would provide students with the freedom to work where and when they wish. However, lap-tops computers are expensive items subject to theft, date rapidly, are more difficult to maintain than desktop PCs and would require significant insurance cover, particularly if taken off campus or indeed outside of the law school.