When asked to design the new Joint Use Facility, Koch Hazard Architects thought it was important to understand the long term context of the building, so the firm began by developing a master plan for the rapidly growing STI campus. With the master plan, Koch Hazard was able to work out the best siting for the new building and show how roads and parking areas should be improved to serve it and future campus buildings.

The technologically state-of-the-art Joint Use Facility is really two separate facilities connected by a two story central commons. The technology component of STI occupies one side and the Sioux Falls programs of USD, SDSU and DSU (formerly known as the Center for Public Higher Education) the other. The central commons provides a relaxed place for students to study and to interact with other students and faculty.

Classrooms and labs are all "smart." A wireless network connects all STI student laptops.