Piloting a project with end users gives valuable insight into how things work in the real world and how long the project will really take. Program officers should be wary of plans that don't allow for adjustments based on learning. A fully articulated infrastructure includes a training component. Training needs to be integrated with operations at all levels of an organization. Implementing this principle increases the value of employees as well as assuring optimal functioning of the organization.
Training can also be an important part of staff retention.
The sustainability of technology becomes a key factor in the overall sustainability of the proposed project. While major service expansion will occasionally require major and expensive infrastructure upgrade, and therefore major funding, technology needs generally should fit in to the overall budget. Appropriateness is the watchword here. For the grantmaker's part, best practice requires familiarity with costs and the ability to match the technology tools with the work being done. Agencies that subscribe to the myth of make-do will underestimate the role of technology, but it is also possible to overuse or overstate what technology will accomplish.