Tech Talk - Computer Literacy

By Dave Rutledge

Computer literacy for the workplace is becoming commonplace, no matter if it’s learning a program to operate a piece of machinery, or running spreadsheets and word processors. Without basic computer knowledge, the average citizen can miss out on job opportunities that they are otherwise qualified for. This is an unfortunate matter as basic computer knowledge takes a month or less for the average person to learn.

After you have learned how to turn the computer on and off you are done learning how to operate the hardware in the basic office environment, so there’s no need to be intimidated by a new thing or thinking you’re going to break something. Most offices have their own tech person, or one on speed dial to help you out of any hardware issues. As for security issues well setup offices will scan information before it comes into the building, and in between computers as you share information around the office. So chances are if a problem issue gets around the defenses it was going to with or without your help.

The basic tools you need are fast and easy to learn, some are free and some cost however.

The tools for your average office are a Word Processor, Spreadsheet knowledge, basic 30 – 50 words per minute typing, Internet browsing, and Email programs. The average workplace requires 50 words per minute as an office standard, but in today’s economy employers will hire you if you have reached 30 words per minute. To achieve 30 words per minute is not hard, and possible while you still are at the point of in between looking at the keyboard and screen. Typing tutors come in free one-month trials, and if you perform an Internet search using the keywords “typing tutor” you’ll find that most typing programs you can buy come in trial versions as well.

When learning your email program keep in mind some simple rules of etiquette. Work mailboxes aren’t for jokes, chain forwards, or other mail like this; they generally waste time and are annoyances when the reader is busy. Always attempt to answer or reply to an email so the person knows you are taking care of their issue. Typing in capitals is screaming, and not necessary in full sentences. Avoid slang and abbreviations, unless it is a matter of business that the reader is sure to understand, it’s a good rule of thumb the reader may not understand your use of slang or abbreviation.

Once over the hump of learning the basics you will find that adapting your skills to real life use comes easily. It’s easy to read a customer number and match it to an account through a program, then know what that customer has ordered. You’ll soon find that merging the information provided by your tools comes easily, like finding the customer number, entering their new order information into the spreadsheet, and then emailing the spreadsheet as an attachment to the applicable department in your office.

With the advance of technology in today’s workplace, basic technological know how is increasingly important. People still get the tasks done that the information on the computer is telling us, and that human element will be hard to replace. In our current economy people are required to fill in the technological jobs, and with the most basic of computer knowledge you can keep pace with the advance of the modern workplace.

David Rutledge is the Owner / Manager of Dreamlab Digital Design Studio

http://www.dreamlabdigital.com

(250) 961 - 0932

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