W2B-032 Computing-2.txt
Grasping the essentials
By Rodney Waite

Carrickfergus Enterprise Agency

Fifteen years ago the workplace was a less demanding place. There was certainly technology and more manpower available than now to get the job done.

Of course, you had to work hard, the range of skills required by the average employee must have been less than those required by today's employer.

Technology had its effect on most activities in the workplace. Computer controlled machines on the shop floor are commonplace but perhaps the largest impact is now being experienced in the office.

We have now all heard of word processing Ð many more are now familiar with terms such as computerised accounts, payroll, spreadsheets, and desk top publishing.

These terms may be used in everyday conversation but how many would be happy to apply for a job that now demands even the most basic computer skills or expect you to handle a 'mouse' Ð not for the squeamish!

Increasingly throughout the country, job descriptions are being changed and updated to include phrases like "must be RSA III word processing qualified", "must be computer literate", or "must have keyboard skills".

Many people returning to work are only acquainted with mechanical or at best electric typewriters, the latter of which looked like technology's leading edge in the old days.

How do you graduate from the'steam' equipment to the slick, fast, accurate, versatile machinery in everyday use in business.

Initially it looks like a difficult transition to make, now "user friendly training" (another new term) makes the experience not only useful but enjoyable as well.

Throughout the province many existing training establishments have, over the past few years, set up new computer training facilities.

Such is the demand created by employers that new specialised training companies are springing up every day.

It is also true that some companies claim to train operators with a two day crash course CRASH being the operative word.

Unless you are already very computer literate the two day courses on offer may not be your cup of tea! Another possibility is to spread the training process, say three-hourly sessions with weekly intervals. Remember, with computers, learning at your own speed is the road to success!

If you need a computer literacy and information technology course or word processing, spreadsheets, accounts, payroll, or desktop publishing, you should find a good selection of training agencies to choose from in your area.

It is not uncommon for schools as well as technical colleges to offer adult classes in computer skills.

There are in most regions, community organisations that can help, and we must not forget the very specialised commercial training agencies.

Cost of courses can vary and as competition for your custom is keener it pays to shop around. A word of caution, make sure the training instructors are well qualified and recognised examination centres are also available.

The man who said that "in years to come most garden sheds will have an abandoned computer gathering dust" is probably right!

However, as sure as day follows night computers will spread into more and more business activities, and it follows that more and more employers will demand a workforce that is computer literate.
