Visioning is the act of promoting opportunities for open exploration of those features and capabilities in the facility that would maximize effectiveness to achieve programmatic goals. Creating a framework of values that will lead to a distinctive facility with creative design solutions. Forging close links between the facility and programs so that the emphasis in planning rests on what the building accomplishes for the institution, not just for individuals or departments. An additional benefit of a successful visioning process is the greater clarity among constituents on the relationships within and among programs and department. Several specific issues should be discussed as part of the visioning process.
More consideration needs to be given to the needs of student and student spaces.
The current trend in teaching is to use more collaborative learning in both the class and teaching laboratory. Fixed seating, auditorium-style, for example, impedes this mode of learning. The current direction in laboratory teaching leans toward investigative labs. Computer technology needs to be carefully considered on several levels.