installations

Installations is the process of placing and configuring devices, software, or artworks so they can operate within a system, space, or environment. The term is used across disciplines, including information technology, contemporary art, and industrial construction, and it often encompasses planning, deployment, and ongoing maintenance.

In art, an installation is a form of site-specific artwork that transforms a space through assembled objects, media, light, sound, and interaction. Installations are usually conceived for a particular venue and may be temporary or permanent. They emphasize spatial experience and viewer engagement rather than a single object.

In software, installation refers to copying program files, libraries, and settings onto a computer or device and configuring them to run. Typical stages include preparation, installation, activation or licensing, and post-installation updates. Installations can be full, incremental, or patch-based and may vary by platform.

In industrial and architectural contexts, installations involve placing equipment or systems—such as electrical gear, pipelines, or HVAC units—within a facility. The process includes site preparation, assembly, testing, commissioning, and documentation, with attention to safety, standards, and reliability.

Common considerations across installation types include planning, compatibility, documentation, quality control, and maintenance. Successful installations minimize downtime, comply with regulatory and safety requirements, and facilitate future upgrades or expansions.