The first step for most schools, school districts, and libraries that intend to apply for E-rate discounts is to prepare a technology plan. This plan sets out how technology will be used to achieve specific curriculum reforms or library service improvements. It guides planning and investment – both for E-rate funds and for the other resources needed to take advantage of technology.

ERC Scope of Work:

Review, advise and insure your technology plan contains the following five components:

1. Clear goals and a realistic strategy for using telecommunications and information technology

2. A professional development strategy to ensure that staff knows how to use these new technologies

3. An assessment of the telecommunication services, hardware, software, and other services needed

4. A sufficient budget to acquire and support the non-discounted elements of the plan: the hardware, software, professional development, and other services that will be needed to implement the strategy

5. An evaluation process that enables the school or library to monitor progress toward the specified goals.

Retention of Records and Audits

• Applicants MUST maintain their records for at least five years to be able to comply with audits and other inquiries or investigations. USAC and the FCC visit a sample of applicants to ensure services have been delivered in compliance with FCC rules. Once a client, ERC maintains these records on your behalf in both a paper hard copy and for easy access, a secure online accessible data warehouse.

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