Tag Archives: Information Technology

IT Training is the Key to Your Economic Future

By Caitlina Fuller

During our dismal economic times, the search for a promising career or even just a job can be the most challenging task one can face today. It is the most challenging time, ever, in US history because of jobs being cut, workers being laid off, hours being cut and wage increases at a complete standstill. If you were one of the thousands and thousands of Americans that lost their job in the last year or so, you are probably feeling the affects of trying to get into the workforce, with no luck.

If you happen to have had a career that involved information technology, there may be hope for you yet. Studies have shown that even though times are tough, as far as the job market is concerned, people in the IT field are finding new jobs, which are full time, while another 8% are finding part time work. This information should keep your hopes up while you are in search of your new and profitable career.

One way that you can achieve your goal of providing for yourself and family once again, is by educating yourself in all aspects of the IT world, thus keeping yourself marketable. IT training will be your ticket to something bigger and better only if you apply yourself, take IT training courses and present yourself to the workforce with confidence.

The world of computers, hardware and software included, is ever changing. The most desirable worker a company wants to hire is the person with the most knowledge and skill when it comes to the all the new and innovative advancements in the computer industry. IT training courses are designed to be up to date on software applications and computer hardware, thus ensuring you are getting the most up to date information and training possible.

Affordable, flexible and educational are how you can describe IT training. These are the qualities that you are looking for in an online learning program in today’s world. You definitely need the IT program to be affordable because you may be living under a tight budget. You need it to be flexible and allow you to study at your own pace because you may be working a minimal paying job, just to hold you over. You also need the IT training courses to be packed with the most current information that can be found on any IT related application. There are IT courses which boasts all these important criteria. You need to do your research and find the one that is right for you.

You will be back in the IT workforce, in no time, if you take the time to get involved with IT training. This is something that you need to do for you and for your family.

Caitlina Fuller is a freelance writer. IT training will be your ticket to something bigger and better only if you apply yourself, take IT training courses and present yourself to the workforce with confidence. IT training courses are designed to be up to date on software applications and computer hardware, thus ensuring you are getting the most up to date information and training possible.

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CompTIA Introduces Strata Computing Fundamentals Certificate

New credential seen as first stepping stone on IT career path

CompTIA, the leading provider of vendor neutral skills certifications for the world’s information technology (IT) workforce, today introduced CompTIA Strata, a new credential that offers individuals a broad introduction to computing technology.

“Strata answers the need for learning about the core terminology, uses and types of technology deployed today,” said Todd Thibodeaux, president and chief executive officer, CompTIA. “It will serve as a critical stepping stone to technical learning and a benchmark of foundational-level IT skills.”

Source: http://bit.ly/URc6g

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Computer Based Training for Average Joe

Author: Caitlina Fuller

Computer based training or CBT training is a type of elearning, where content is delivered to the learners using CDs and DVDs and the primary source of delivery is a computer.

It can be used for teaching any subject or topic though CBT training is very effective for learning computer applications, as learners can practice them while learning. So, one can learn basics of Microsoft Excel or any other application like Photoshop or Word. There is an extensive range of subjects and topics available in this format today.

Computer based training is especially of use to working IT or non IT professionals who do not find time to attend traditional classes but want to acquire newer skills which will give their career a boost. These self paced courses are ideal for entry level trainees or even established professionals. A computer is only what is required and since most PCs come with CD-ROMS, these training videos are easy to view. It also allows the user the flexibility to view the videos at work or at home. Even while you are on the move, the videos can be viewed on the laptop.

Computer based training videos have instructors led sessions which makes one feel like he is actually attending a real class. The instructors are certified ones and have good experience of the industry. With vast industry knowledge, experts design the curriculum to give quality information to the learners. The computer based training videos will have in depth discussions, demos, exercises and presentations which results in more effective learning.

The hands on experiences that these videos offer can not be duplicated in theoretical books. The videos CDs have instructions, simulations and practice exams to go through every step systematically. There are reviews at the end of a section to ensure that you have learnt the topic well. As a learner, you can go back to the areas and re-read them unless you are comfortable with it.

It is imperative for small and big corporate companies to impart trainings to their employees, to keep them up to date in order to survive in the competitive environment and companies failing to do so, will find it hard to carry on in tough situations. Corporate training CBT courses are designed such that it allows any company to teach a particular content, to its employees at the same time. It is a very cost effective method of teaching new skills to the employees.

About the Author:

Caitlina Fuller is a freelance writer. It can be used for teaching any subject or topic though CBT training is very effective for learning computer applications, as learners can practice them while learning. Computer based training videos have instructors led sessions which makes one feel like he is actually attending a real class.

Article Source: ArticlesBase.com”Computer Based Training for Average Joe

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What IT Certification Means to the Industry Today

By Aaron R Klimchuk

IT Certification is becoming more important every month, as unemployment flirts with double digits, the highest values in 25 years. Certification can help combat some of your biggest economic fears, such as being laid off and unable to find a job. Higher education and qualifications can help you stand out in a crowd of applicants. Many jobs are even requiring Certification for employment nowadays.

job, and can actually provide opportunities to improve your position in a company.

Arguably the best use of IT Certification is to retain a job while a company is downsizing. In this economic slump, larger companies are looking for ways to cut costs, and one effective way to do that is to lay off employees. In times of layoffs, companies look to see which employees have the most talent and potential, and those include certified technical workers. Having one or several certifications will boost your chances of retaining your nt nowadays.

Certification can also lead to raises, promotions and other benefits in the workplace. Certified workers are in high demand while companies try to boost efficiency in the office, especially with software and other technology-driven applications. Microsoft Certification is a valuable asset in technology, since many companies run Windows Operating Systems and Applications and require highly skilled workers to setup and maintain these systems. Other Certifications can be just as beneficial in the IT workplace.

Especially as more offices go paperless, the loss of applications and the server can inhibit the work of all employees, not just those involved with IT. Companies are also more inclined to promote workers from within their office. For one, companies are assured they are getting an employee they know is dedicated to his or her work. Also, promoting from within requires less training since the worker can come up-to-speed more quickly on the new job.

If you do manage to find yourself unemployed, all is not lost. Some companies are still hiring, and many of the positions available are highly skilled jobs. So, IT Certification will be beneficial when looking for a job in a tight market. When looking at several applicants, a company is likely to factor in certification as a guarantee of quality IT work and knowledge. As stated before, companies are trying to keep systems and servers up and efficient, which require highly skilled IT workers to configure and troubleshoot at all times. There are several levels of IT Certification, as well as technology expectations. IT work is needed for everything from setting up a new computer, to installing and maintaining a system of networks, and of course, everything in between. Different certifications prepare individuals for different job expectations.

Even in a tough economy, IT remains somewhat steady. There are some job opportunities out there, and a résumé which includes multiple IT Certifications will significantly boost your chances in obtaining a position in the technology field. Cisco, Microsoft, CompTIA and a number of other technology leaders provide the opportunity to become certified, so take advantage of these opportunities, and become successful in the world of Information Technology.

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Why a Training Course Does Not Cost $5

So you got yet another throw-away ad in the mail, offering computer or soft skills training. You riffle the ad casually, holding it precariously over the trash bin as you eye its contents. “Get more done in less time,” “Be more efficient,” “Unlock the potential of your computer and your mind” are some of the headlines that leap out at you.

Yeah yeah yeah. Sure, you’re thinking. Maybe you will get some of those benefits, maybe you won’t. But why does training have to be so darn expensive? It’s a fair question, and as the owner and operator of a training company, I think I have a unique perspective to offer you. Let’s take a look at just exactly where the money goes.

Hidden Costs

First of all, keep in mind that there is a lot of hidden cost to the trainer and training company. This comes in the form of a huge time commitment to learn software, keep up to date, and also to market themselves on an ongoing basis. This simply takes a lot of time.

Also, if the trainer comes to you, there is considerable effort he/she must make in driving, finding your business, setting up the training room before the course, etc. Time is money too.

Direct Costs

I haven’t even mentioned direct costs such as:

  • Computers
  • Software
  • Books
  • Certifications
  • Equipment – laptops, overhead projectors, etc.

Even a small training company can have a lot of hidden overhead you don’t see when they show up, smiling on your doorstep.

The Actual Value of Training

Additionally, the skills the trainer imparts help you and your employees do their jobs. Essentially, the trainer is providing you with the tools to do your business at the highest level possible. Isn’t it important, and valuable, to you as a business owner and/or personnel manager to have your business run as smoothly and efficiently as possible? Isn’t maximizing profits important, and can’t computer and soft-skills training assist you in meeting these goals?

I can’t tell you how many times I’ve taught presidents, executives, managers, and many others high up in the organizational food chain. Folks who were making many times more than I was for the same hours–and yet I was training them how to be more efficient, how to be confident, and what to do to be successful. Do you see the dichotomy here?

Dangers of Hiring on Price

Hiring a training company based on price alone, as with any product or service, is usually a big mistake. There are a lot of hacks in the computer and soft-skills training business who are willing to work for peanuts. Peanuts are for elephants, and not for high-caliber people.

How much does losing a whole day to poor training cost you in the long run? The simple maxim generally shows itself to be true: you do get what you pay for.

You Can’t Buy Excellence

This may sound like a funny heading, but it’s true. While you can always pay more for a product or service, in the end, excellence is a matter of personal integrity and commitment, and you can’t just buy it. You have to find it, and often it does come at a price–deservedly so. I’m certain you would not complain about your own professional rates; no doubt you are worth every penny of your asking price.

Ultimately, high-level people such as you do not spend hours and hours for free; they know what their time is worth, and they ask for what the market will bear as fair return for their efforts. Finding people who demand excellence from themselves, and in turn share it with you, is a valuable commodity worth voting for with your training dollars.

Conclusion

We’ve explored some of the hidden and direct costs of computer training, and discussed why high quality training commands a price. After all, the people you hire will be teaching you and your employees how to better do your jobs. Isn’t increased efficiency, confidence, and competence valuable in helping your business be stronger and more competitive? What is that worth to you? In the end, you must decide.

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