With permanent installations, early planning may begin as far out as several years. Of course, programming will not occur at this time, but an LD might consult with a programmer to help with console and data decisions. You will need to consider whether a full console is required for the installation or if a rack mount unit or PC version will adapt better. If the system will be self-standing, than a console is not needed for the installation, but you should be sure that console rental is included in the bid.
— Brad Schiller, Feeding the Machines, July 2007
