> There are a multitude of things to consider when selecting a place for your L.A.N. party.  Part of the decision will be made for you based on estimated attendance, the cost, your budget, power availability, and rules / restrictions that the venue has. Maybe you are just having one at your house, some of these issues will still need to be addressed.  Here are some things to consider.

> The search:  When calling around looking for a venue, keep in mind that they have NO idea what you are doing.  When asking them the size of their place they will almost always answer in terms of seating capacity, which is of no help to you.  In banquet style seating you can fit 8 people on an 8 foot table (4 per side) or they might use circular tables which throws things off further. 

For our setups you can only fit 3 people (one side only) on an 8ft x 30" table and only 2 people (one side only) of a 6ft x 30" table.  What you need to know is Square footage, which surprisingly, many of them won't know.  Don't bother too much with the power issue as they most likely have no freaking clue how much power they have.  Save the in-depth power research for an on site visit.  It may also raise their suspicion anyway.  If it meets the other criteria then an on site visit to their power panel is needed.

Here is a quick run down.

• Power - See power page
• Parking - Is there enough? Don't count on people riding together. How far away from the building is it? Are there parking regulations that will get your guests tickets or towed?  Is there a cost for parking?
• Cost - This is always important.  Do they require a deposit and if so how much?  Is the deposit refundable and how many days before your event can you cancel?
• Requirements - Do you have to show proof of insurance and if so for what amount?  Do you have to sign a contract?
• Tables & Chairs - Are they available? At what cost? how many do they have? Don't let them quote how many they can seat!!  What condition are they in? Are the seats cushion top or metal?  Are the tops of the tables so chewed up guys will be getting splitters in their wrists?  What size are the tables? Regular 8'x 30", 6' x 30" or some other odd size.
• Size - Ask for square footage of usable space. Are there additional reception areas or hallways you can use?  Is there a way to secure the entrance and exits?  How high are the ceilings?  High ceilings allow for heat to rise up and projectors to be shown on the walls.
• Layout - Are there immovable objects that will reduce the amount of gamers you can fit in?  Like doors you can not block, stages, plants, fountains, beams, furniture, etc...?
• Hours - Can you go all night or till late?, when can you get in to setup and when do you have to be out.  Can someone be reached to handle issues?
• Bathrooms - Do they have enough for your expected attendance?  Will they be cleaned and restocked if needed?  Would you poo or pass?
• Light control - Can you make the place dark enough to not have monitor glare? How are the lights controlled?  Can windows be covered?
• Heating and Air - Lots of computers = lots of heat!  If no air conditioning you better get some fans.  Is the heat and air on a automatic timer?  Will you be allowed to control the temperature?
• Proximity - Lodging (if over night), Food !! (Pizza delivery?), Computer store, movie theater.  If at a hotel, what will rooms cost?
• Location - Although this is important, if you have a LAN going down, they will find you : )
• Security - Is this a safe place for people (and there cars) to be?
• Restrictions - What is their policy on, food, smoking, drinking, etc..
• Floors - Are they carpeted, concrete, wood, or grass? Carpet is nice for all niters to sleep on, and keeps the noise down.  However if you have to clean it up after someone drops pizza...
• Entrances - Are they single doors, double doors, or garage doors?  Covered with a car port type deal or wide open.  Curb side or a mile away.  Up stairs, down stairs, or ground floor?  If not on the ground floor is there an elevator that can be used? 
• Carts or dollies - A must for large parties.  Your guests will love you for making it easy for them to get their PC's in and out.
• Internet access - Although defiantly not needed and sometimes a network detriment if not handled properly, it is nice to have it available.
• Sound system - do they have a built in sound system to plug into?  Do you need to provide your own equipment? Will you be allowed to control it?
• Other Services - Can or will they provide:  video projectors / screens, table skirts and cloths, setup based on a plan, power layout, stages, marquee exposure, web site calendar listing, announcements or flyers at other events preceding yours, water and coffee, cleanup, etc...?  At what cost?

Print friendly checklist coming soon.