Prioritizing Computer Replacements?

cuzality asks: "The public library I work for is (hopefully) going to get some money in the coming months to replace some of our computers. Since we can't replace all of them at the same time, we need to decide which machines to replace first. We have begun working on a survey instrument to help us accomplish this, but since this is the first time we are replacing computers (most were bought in 1999), this is also the first time we have tried to put together a survey for this purpose. What kind of criteria have you used to prioritize replacement of computers? Examples of surveys you have used would also be very helpful..."

Comments

basic criteria to determine

[truffle]

How many hours a week is each computer used?

What functions does each computer perform (surfing web, accessing custom library application, etc.) and what's the breakdown of those functions in percentages?

Assemble a list of all functions the computers are used for, determine how each function would benefit from running on newer hardware.

What new functions would the library like to incorporate utilizing newer computrs? Assemble a wish list, and then determine through a panel which of those functions are likely to be implemented in the next year if new computing resources are available.

With this information you should be able to determine which computers will benefit most from an upgrade. Other factors to consider are that it's more estheticly pleasing to have similar computers together (mild preference for grouping computers of the same type). Publicly usable computers that are upgraded can make a positive statement to library patrons (preference for visibility).