The cause of some problems can be nothing more complex than a loose connector on the Ethernet segment. Often times the causes are much more complex and require training, patience, and diligence in tracking down. The manager may not be able to find or solve the problem alone, but it is their duty to know who to call for outside assistance, and when to call for outside assistance. In some instances the lab manager must coordinate networking activities with the UMKCnet Manager to make sure the campus wide network is not affected by networking changes or problems in the lab. The Lab manager may also be given the responsibilities to hire, train, and schedule any student assistants needed in the lab.
Student assistants are an excellent resource for a lab manager.
In the typical lab, the student assistants are the first layer of support in monitoring work in the lab and assisting the lab users. A Lab manager who has these responsibilities must have or be able to acquire the people skills to handle the tasks. The manager may require additional training to gain or enhance those skills. There is no room for mishandling of student assistants through a lack of supervisory talents.