The Benefits of a Computerized Training Manual

Training manuals are a vital part of workplace documentation, not only for newcomers to the office but for anyone looking to refresh themselves as to policy, protocols and procedures. The problem with training manuals, however, is that they are often bulky and cumbersome, not always easy to lay your hands on, and often haven't been updated in recent history.

In the age of the modern workplace, there is an alternative to bulky, paper-bound training manuals. With many offices implementing shared drives with companywide access, a computerized version of your training manual may be just what you need for your office.

Of course, putting together a computerized training manual takes time and resources, so you'll want to lay out just what the benefits would be for your company.

So just what are some of the benefits of a computerized training manual?

- Easy access. For companies using shared drives, putting your training manual into electronic format and storing it on a shared drive makes for easier accessibility to information. You won't have to worry about someone taking the last (or in some cases, only) copy and having to search high and low to find it. With a computerized training manual, everyone can have access to training materials at any time they need it.

- Searchability. Electronic documents, for the most part, have the benefit of being searchable. For someone who happens to be looking for a single piece of information, a searchable document can be invaluable.

- Updatability. Paper training manuals are often inefficient to update. Updates generally involve updating the document, printing, photocopying, hole-punching, and other notorious time-eaters. Because of this, updates are often overlooked, pushed off for a better time. Computerized training materials can be updated with a few clicks. Information can be added, deleted, or amended very simply, which is ideal for a rapidly changing workplace.

- Cost savings. Avoiding the cost of printing and copying training materials can be a money-saver. Sure, electronic storage space comes at a price, but weighed with the price of paper, ink, and other resources, including payroll, it'll still be cost efficient.

- Everything in one place. In many offices, different people compile different training materials. Often, when it's time for an update, training materials can be scattered over a number of places on your computer and other computers in the office. Keeping a computerized training manual assures you of finding all the pieces in one place.

Computerized training manuals may well be the new standard for companies. Why not bring your workplace up to speed?

This article has been submitted in affiliation with http://www.Facsimile.Com/ which is a site for Fax Machines.

How to Choose the Right Computer Training Class for Web Developers

The rapidly expanding field of computer training classes has posed several vital questions for people interested in either on-site computer training or online computer classes. Web Developers are among the career fields that must deal with training issues. It is not enough to feel your experience and training has already qualified you for a position as a Web Developer. Technology is changing almost daily and training really never ends. If you have not taken a certification training class or an IT training class lately, you are more than likely falling behind rapidly.

If you are working as an independent web developer, you may feel that you are not in need of training at all. You might be depending on your talent alone. This is most likely a mistake and you are going to quickly find yourself falling short in meeting your client?s expectations. So, once you make the decision to seek additional training, where is the best place to start?

In just about any field today the first choice is between on-site training, or traditional classroom training, and online training, or distant training. This choice is influenced by many different factors including cost and free time, but the most important factor is often your own personal training profile. If you are the kind of person who needs hands on experience and benefits from the help of a real live instructor, on-site computer training is going to be the best choice for you. In the long run, it is not going to matter if you save money or if online is going to fit better into your busy schedule. If you do not have the self discipline or sense of independence necessary for success in online training, you had better find a good on-site computer training class.

A new trend in on-site computer training classes is what is being called computer training boot camps. These are intensive and focused certification programs that are held on-site and feature hands on training and the guidance of experienced professional instructors. The classes available at the boot camps are widely varied. If Micro Soft training classes are what you need to secure a Micro Soft Systems Engineer certificate, you are sure to find plenty of them at the IT boot camps. There are many factors to consider to find the right training for you once you admit to yourself that the rapid technological explosion requires ongoing training. There are also many options, and you must research every available one and weigh the pros and cons carefully before you make a final decision. Treat your training decision with the same care you would give to selecting a college or university for your child. The extra effort will pay off in matching your training needs to the right training institution.

Natalie Aranda writes about web development. The rapidly expanding field of computer training classes has posed several vital questions for people interested in either on-site computer training or online computer classes. Web Developers are among the career fields that must deal with training issues. It is not enough to feel your experience and training has already qualified you for a position as a Web Developer. Technology is changing almost daily and training really never ends. If you have not taken a certification training class or an IT training class lately, you are more than likely falling behind rapidly.

Computer Graphic Training

Graphic Design is a widely used feature in business and communications. The growth of the Internet and multimedia entertainment provides excellent opportunities for those who want computer graphic design training. Computer graphic training equips students with a wide range of design skills. Graphic design students find jobs in advertising agencies, web design companies, design studios, publishing houses, television and film companies. Computer graphic training opens the doors to jobs such as web designer, illustrator and graphic designer.

Computer graphic programs have greatly increased the speed and ease with which graphic designers can translate their ideas into visual form and then save and edit their designs. Computer graphic designers require a combination of creativity, computer knowledge and good communication skills. Graphic designers plan, analyze, and create visual solutions to communications problems. They decide the most effective way of getting a message across in print, electronic and film media. Computer graphic training involves using a variety of methods such as color, type, illustration, photography, animation, and various print and layout techniques.

A graphic designer develops the layout and production design of magazines, journals, newspapers and other publications. They also produce promotional displays, packaging, and marketing brochures for products and services. Designers also learn to design logos for products and businesses and develop signage systems for business and government.

Graphic designers may also learn to produce the credits that appear before and after television programs and movies. The courses make them capable of developing material for Internet Web pages, interactive media and multimedia projects.

The first step in developing graphic design is to determine the needs of the client, the message the design should portray, and its appeal to customers or users. Designers gather relevant information by meeting with clients, creative or art directors, and by performing their own research. Identifying the needs of consumers is important for graphic designers as the scope of their work continues to focus on creating corporate communication strategies in addition to technical design and layout work. All these topics are covered in detail in the curriculum of a computer graphic design course.

Computer Training provides detailed information on Computer Training, Computer Internet Training, Computer Graphic Training, Computer Forensics Training and more. Computer Training is affliated with Computer Science Education

Computer Training and IT Certifications

In the competitive world of the internet, computer training is necessary to gain skills and knowledge in order to get the validation you need to be recognized as an expert IT professional confronting all those opportunities and career challenges that have never been greater than today.

An IT certification is a common a prerequisite to get a job or a salary increase, hence professional certifications are a necessity and not just a marketing strategy to sell determined software or useless courses. Both computer training and IT certification are the best way to demonstrate your skills and expertise in any given technical field to present to prospective employers.

Computer training is possible through formal education attending one of the many colleges or university offering both IT and computer science programs. There are many other institutes offering computer training online and computer based training products and courses for Web Development, Microsoft Office, and various Information Technology certifications among others.

Computer training online and computer based training products also offer online support from expert instructors, which make it easier to learn without even leaving the comfort of your home. From study guides, practice exams, to audio training, video training and online training. Computer training offers different requirements and levels of learning to focus on anyone's demands.

On the other hand, IT Certifications not only lets you demonstrate undeniable expertise on diverse IT areas but also a document that credits your qualifications enhancing your curriculum vitae whether if getting a new job or engaging in a new system-wide deployment.

Furthermore, employers are more likely to hire job candidates with IT Certification credentials since it is a way to ensure that they are getting top qualified professionals with proven proficiency in their technology area.

For companies, this is as clear as water, certified professionals give them competitive advantage over other firms in the same field increasing customer satisfaction, reducing network downtime, and pushing their services to higher levels. A person with computer training and IT certification translates into an excellent return on their investment.

In the United States, some of the colleges and universities offering both computer training and certification training are Berkeley College, University of Phoenix Online, Kaplan University, AIU Online, Capella University, Strayer University Online, Kennedy-Western University, DeVry University, Westwood College Online, just to name a few.

Some companies specialize in online certification, training and employee testing offer free tools online to measure your skills and determine if you need to achieve certain computer training skill or if an IT certification is required to develop your professional career.

Natalie Aranda writes about business, learning and technology. Both computer training and IT certification are the best way to demonstrate your skills and expertise in any given technical field to present to prospective employers

Quick Guide to Computer Training

Computers and the Internet have come a long way since their inception. Living in the computer age means adapting to new technologies as they evolve. The ease and speed of communication that computer technology provides allows us to be more productive in every facet of our lives. That technology requires skilled computer professionals to design, maintain, and implement it.

What is it? Computer training is divided into specialties including: * Computer hardware * Computer software * Computer networking * Web Development

Computer hardware refers to the actual physical components that comprise computers (processors, modems, keyboards, motherboards etc). Computer hardware engineers design, develop and maintain computer hardware. They may oversee the installation and manufacture of hardware. Due to the constant flux of the industry, continued education is required to keep up with trends and technology.

Computer software refers to the content that makes a computer work. Software is divided into three categories: Platform (such as operating systems i.e. Windows, Linux, and Macintosh OSX), Applications (Microsoft Office, games), and User-Written (templates, plug-ins, extensions). Computer software engineers, like their hardware counterparts, are required to continually learn new skills in conjunction with developing technology.

Computer networking refers to communication between a group or groups of computers. This includes LAN-local area network, MAN-metropolitan area network and WAN-wide area network. Computer network engineers work with software and hardware integration across a system of computers and servers. They deal with computer-to-computer interface and connect users to each other via private as well as public networks.

Web development refers to the building and implementation of websites (design, programming, server configuration) - Web page design is a subset that deals with user interface design, graphics, html and CSS (cascading style sheets). Web page designers are behooved to have good art skills as they will most likely be dealing with graphics, layout and Flash applications.

Why do it? Other than the obvious passion for computers and technology, salary and job growth potential are excellent reasons to consider computer careers. Diversity of computer skills adds to marketability in the workforce. Many employers do not have time to train workers on basic skills and expect employees to be more than familiar with computers.

Who should do it? If you have an aptitude or interest in math, science or art, and have strong problem solving and analytical skills you are a perfect candidate for a computer related career. Computer careers can be solitary work, but often require good communication skills. Systems administrators must know how to relay information to clients and coworkers in order to maintain order and efficiency in the system.

Education is available in many varieties; from certifications, certificate programs, associate's degree programs, bachelor's and even master's degree programs. Many professionals receive degrees in computer science and related fields, but still others are required to have specific certifications (for example MCSE-Microsoft Certified Systems Engineer or MCSA-Microsoft Certified Systems Administrator). Many industries do not require these specific certifications, only knowledge and experience of computer systems. When making a decision about education, research the jobs that interest you and find out just what the employers are looking for in a candidate. Why spend four years working on a bachelor's degree when a shorter certificate program may be all you need?

Where can I find out more? For more information on careers, training, and working conditions see the Occupational Outlook handbook at the US Bureau of Labor Statistics site.

Kate Leas is a freelance writer from Kansas City, Missouri. Her current fields include education and the Internet.

Computer Technology Online Schools

If you are looking for a convenient course in computer technology, there is not a more convenient way to study than an online school. Because online computer technology courses are available 24 hours a day, students can study at any time that is convenient. Online colleges are especially appealing to working adults, because they do not have to give up current employment in order to complete the course.

With an extensive distance learning curriculum in computer and network maintenance and repair, online computer technology schools teach students all about computer programming and much more. Students learn to troubleshoot computers, install and support hard drives, network, use graphics, manage memory, control viruses, recover lost data, and much more. If you have already earned a degree in computer science, perhaps a continuing education course in computer technology would help advance your career.

Once you are enrolled in an online computer technology school, you can choose courses that lead to professional certification, or you may opt for online degrees in computer sciences ranging from associate to masters. Online courses can vary a great deal in length and curriculum, so the serious student will make sure the course they choose is a good match for their career goals and aspirations. Successful graduates are qualified to apply for many positions, including computer support specialist, electronics and field technician, system analyst, system coordinator and many other computer-related careers.

Online computer technology schools allow students to study at their own pace, in the convenience of their own personal settings, without meeting any strict deadlines and without commuting to classes. If you are interested in learning more about Online Computer Technology Schools and other programs of study, please search our site for more information and resources.

DISCLAIMER: Above is a GENERAL OVERVIEW and may or may not reflect specific practices, courses and/or services associated with ANY ONE particular school(s) that is or is not advertised on SchoolsGalore.com.

Michael Bustamante is a staff writer for Media Positive Communications, Inc., in association with SchoolsGalore.com. Visit our Distance Learning Directory and find Online Schools and other Schools, Colleges, Universities, and Trade Schools at SchoolsGalore.com; your educational resource to locate schools.

Computer Careers And Training Schools: Building A Network Of Contacts

Getting that first computer job and getting your IT career started can be tough - and you've got to go the extra mile to get it started! Learn how from Chris Bryant, CCIE #12933.

Almost all computer schools and colleges have some sort of job placement assistance (and you should ask about this before signing up!).   The people who work in these departments work very hard to get your computer career started and get you into your first job in the computer field, but you shouldn't leave it all up to them.  You need to know how to build two kinds of networks to get ahead in IT - the physical kind that carries packets, and the personal kind that can get you hired and get you ahead.

When it comes to getting that first computer job, you have to show initiative.  Don't just send a pile of resumes out and expect the phone to ring off the hook.  If you're attending a computer training school, you have two great resources to draw on in your job search.  First, schedule an interview with someone in the job placement assistance department.  Ask them what you can do to help them get your computer career started.  Showing initiative will also help you stand out from the crowd, and there's nothing wrong with that.

Your second resource is a group of resources, actually - your instructors.  Odds are that your teachers know people in IT that can help get you started. Even if the people they know can't hire you today, they're still contacts.  And getting your computer career started is a contact sport - the more people you contact, the better you do!

I know how hard it can be to get a computer career started, and I also know how lucrative such a career can be.  Get out there and meet people, get involved with your school's job placement department, and get started!

Chris Bryant, CCIE #12933, is the owner of The Bryant Advantage, home of over 200 free certification exam tutorials, including CCNA certification training articles. His exclusive CCNA study guide is also available!Visit his blog and sign up for Cisco Certification Central, a daily newsletter packed with CCNA, Network+, Security+, A+, and CCNP certification exam practice questions! A free 7-part course, ?How To Pass The CCNA?, is also available, and you can attend an in-person or online Cisco CCNA training boot camp with The Bryant Advantage!

 

Finale Notepad, 10 Reasons It Should Be On Your Computer or In Your School

Coda Music has done something wonderful for the music world and you should take full advantage of their generosity. Finale Notepad 2007 has been released and once again it is totally free. Finale Notepad is an amazing tool for the price. Using it will inspire creativity, fortify musical understanding and promote music literacy.

If you are a teacher, you can easily add Finale Notepad into your everyday lessons and plans. Because it's free and crosses O/S platforms (Mac or Windows), having any computer or computer lab available to you is all that you will need in order to utilize this very useful program.

You do not need a music keyboard or M.I.D.I. device to use Finale Notepad. As a matter of fact, those things won't help you at all, since M.I.D.I. type features are reserved for the upgraded versions of Finale. Despite this restriction, Finale Notepad actually is quite useful and beneficial for individuals and school music programs alike.

The Top 10 things you can do (for Free) with Finale

1. Easily create "Fake Book" music

2. Easily create guitar tab

3. Easily perform music transpositions

4. Quickly create and notate music- using up to eight staves

5. View music in "C" or concert pitch

6. Easily "jot down" musical ideas

7. Hear your "musical ideas" back

8. Listen to music at faster or slower speeds than the original

9. Print out music for later use

10. Share your ideas with others using Finale's Showcase

Good Reasons Why Finale Notepad Should Be In Every Music Educator's "Tool Box":

1. It's Free!

2. You can easily transpose music for your students

3. It's Free!

4. You can quickly write missing parts for your ensembles and instrumentalists

5. It's Free!

6. You can download music from http://www.classicalarchives.com and incorporate it into your classes (using Finale Notepad to view it) for discussions and as examples (Classical Archives is free too!).

7. It's Free!

8. You can use it as a creative tool, exploring music writing and composition with your students

9. It's Free!

10. You can write tests with it using a combination of the text tool and notation tools

11. It's Free!

12. There is no limit to the amount of computers that you can place the software on

13. It's Free!

14. You can easily use "screen capture" software to grab images of your music and incorporate the images into your word processing documents

15. It's Free!

16. You can make templates that graphically demonstrate the different types of chords, inversions and intervals and have the students both see and hear the examples

17. It's Free!

18. You can explore different rhythmical elements and polyrhythms that you may not be able to easily demonstrate yourself

19. It's Free!

20. Your student's will be "blown away" by being able to do something MUSICAL in "computer lab"...

And the number one reason to use Finale in your classroom IS ...

IT'S FREE! ... and it works with both Macs and Windows!

You can download Finale Notepad, for free, at http://www.finalemusic.com/notepad/

You can also submit your music created with Finale software and search for music that others have created and made available, free of charge, by visiting https://www.finalemusic.com/showcase/fs_home.asp

If you have liked this article please let me know by commenting about it at:

http://www.mustech.net/2006/10/finale-notepad-10-reasons-it-should-be-on-your-computer-or-in-your-school/

You may also find working links for this article and other related articles as well. -----
Prof. Joseph M. Pisano is the Assistant Chairman of Music and Fine Arts, Associate Director of Bands and the Director of Music and Fine Arts Technology at Grove City College.

He is also an active musician, clinician, conductor, adjudicator and educator.
-----
Websites:
http://www.jpisano.com
http://www.mustech.net

How To Succeed At A Computer Training School

One of the best decisions you can ever make is to attend a computer training school. As I've written in several other articles, you have to ask the right questions before writing a check or taking out a student loan, but when you find the right school you are indeed on your way to a successful career.

There's a big difference between attending a tech school and excelling at the classes, though. Whether you just "float through" the school or really work hard is totally up to you. From my personal experience at such a school, I'd like to offer you one simple tip that will quadruple your chances of success at the school and in the job market.

Get there early and stay late.

When I attended a tech school years ago, I admit I was surprised that most of my classmates had what I call the "junior high school" mentality - they would get there late and leave as soon as class is over. Guess what? You're no longer in junior high. You're attending this school to create a career for yourself. Get to class early, get some extra study and work in while you're waiting for class to start, and then stay after class!

The most important part of your computer school studies is getting hands-on experience with the technologies that you're learning. If you're taking a Cisco class, you need to work with a router or switch as often as you can. If you're learning a software program, you need to work with that program in the school's labs as much as possible. Reading books alone will not teach you everything you need to know. The best time to get extra work in is after class. You may not be able to work in the computer labs at night if the school offers night classes, but odds are there are very few people in there during the afternoon. You need to be one of those people.

Doing only what is required of you is not the path to excellence. You need to go beyond the requirements of the school and invest the extra time and effort into your career. I speak from experience - there is no field in the world that rewards individual effort more than the IT field. Develop the habit of going "above and beyond" today, and this will pay huge dividends for you in the future.

Chris Bryant, CCIE #12933, is the owner of The Bryant Advantage (http://www.thebryantadvantage.com), home of free CCNA and CCNP tutorials! For my FREE "How To Pass The CCNA" or "CCNP" ebook, visit the website and download your copies. Pass your CCNA exam with The Bryant Advantage!