COMPUTER BASED TRAINING OVER THE INTERNET

Computer Based Training is a new service we provide that was recently transferred from the IMServices Division of DAS.

If you are not familiar with Computer Based Training, called CBT in the training industry, it is an option for taking computer and professional development related training courses while sitting at your work desk or from your computer at home.

What are the benefits of this type of training? Actually there are several. Probably the first that comes to mind is the option of taking training when it is actually needed. In a classroom environment, a person has to first locate a training company that offers the class required, schedule a date from the vendors schedule, travel to the classroom site, and be out of the office for one or more days. With CBT, you have the option to take a course at any location that has a computer connected to the Internet on your own schedule without missing work.

Other advantages include being able to work at your own pace. We all work at different levels and CBT offers the advantage to set your own pace making learning easier and more enjoyable. When staffing requirements require new skills to be learned, CBT provides a helpful and cost saving solution for existing staff. Many of the software programs we use on a daily basis, such as Word and Excel, have functions not used often. When assistance is needed in answering questions, a customer support Help Desk is not always available. CBT courses can help fill this need.

The CBT library consists of 250 courses updated every six months. There are courses for the desktop user that include Windows, Microsoft Office (all levels), and Lotus Notes for End Users. For the technical staff of network technicians and programming developers, courses included are JAVA, Microsoft Server 2003, XML, SMS, Linux, and Macromedia web development. Also included are a large selection of business skill training that includes leadership, team building, personal development, and human resources.

Several State Agencies are currently using this CBT training as a cost-effective solution to improve their employee’s skills. For example, if your agency, board, or commission has from 1-9 employees, the annual cost is $520.00. For an agency with a staff of 75 employees, the cost would be $3,110.00. With classroom training averaging about $160 per person for a one day desktop class and technical classes well above that cost, CBT becomes a very cost effective solution for training State employees. To find out more about these courses or have a CBT demonstration, contact Jim at jpritcha@notes.state.ne.us or (402) 471-4997.

2500/2554 SETS

As technology changes, the Division of Communications’ options for obtaining basic 2500 desk sets and 2554 wall sets at little or no cost have diminished. Therefore, effective January 1, 2005 we will begin charging for the basic desk and wall sets. The Division of Communications has various options to choose from when making decisions on basic telephone equipment. As equipment is replaced, you may find that your current basic desk/wall telephone is no longer the most efficient model for your agency, and that your needs may be better served by having a different model telephone with more functionality. As you make your replacement decisions, please contact Norma at the Division of Communications (402) 471-3562 or email Norma (nowhite@notes.state.ne.us). Information can be provided on available equipment as well as answers to your questions on pricing and features available.

NEW EMPLOYEE

Tina Seacrest joined the Division of Communications staff on November 15, 2004. Tina is in the Voice Services section and can assist you with telephone and voicemail services. She can be reached at (402) 471-4702 or via email at Tina (tseacres@notes.state.ne.us).