Equipping a whole department with drawing equipment requires more than simply furnishing a single classroom. It involves careful planning, standardisation, and budgeting to ensure that all students and instructors have consistent access to reliable tools—regardless of the room or course.
Begin by evaluating the types of courses offered (e.g. architecture, product design, art and engineering), the number of students enrolled, and the physical spaces used for teaching. Some departments may have shared studios, dedicated classrooms, or mobile workshops—each with unique requirements for layout, durability, and equipment flexibility.
A well-equipped department will usually require the following:
Keeping equipment consistent across multiple rooms or year groups simplifies teaching, equipment use, and maintenance. Standardising board sizes (e.g. A1 for all workspaces) or choosing one motion system (e.g. counter-weight or cross-wire) reduces confusion and speeds up setup times for tutors and technicians.
When buying in volume, work directly with the manufacturer to take advantage of educational discounts, bundled pricing, and product advice. Orchard offers bulk pricing for schools and colleges, along with delivery options tailored to large orders. Planning purchases ahead of the academic year also ensures timely delivery.
Think beyond installation. Create dedicated storage areas for portable boards and plan routine checks for wear and alignment. Choose equipment built to last—boards with metal edges, reinforced corners, and sealed bearing systems help reduce long-term replacement costs.
Successful department-wide setups begin with understanding your courses, spaces, and student numbers. From there, invest in quality, standardised equipment, and work with an experienced supplier who understands the demands of educational environments. Orchard can help tailor solutions for departments of all sizes, offering delivery, setup guidance, and durable equipment built for long-term use.