Computer skill is one of the most important soft skills that people need to have in workplace. Without having proper computer skill, employees won’t be able to fully competent while on the job. In fact, computer skills should be considered as one of the core competencies that people need to have in the workplace. In reality, computer skill is a broad subject and it’s much more than just being able to use document editor, spreadsheet and presentation tool. It is important that employees are able to use their computer skill into real-life situation in the work place. Problems can happen when the computer training isn’t job-specific. This could happen when employees took computer courses before they apply for the job. Some of the course details could be useful, but many of them are not relevant for the job. In this case, businesses should consider performing a new training session to refine the computer skill of their employees. As an example, it is important that employees are able to navigate their business-specific programs. The training should be able to cover each area of the task systematically.

Any training course should be tailored based on the employee’s job tasks. By not delivering the right kind of task, we may purposefully leave a huge hole in the knowledge sets of our employees. They should understand about software application that’s used in the business processes. It’s probably not feasible for employees to understand and master all aspects of computer skills; but could still be encouraged to become more proficient in daily tasks. Even a very common productivity tool, such as Microsoft Word has a wealth of features that are not yet tapped by average employees. An employee who has mastered the Microsoft Word is able to use the software in every conceivable way and it may not be necessary for them to use more software tools. Software can be seen as a toolbox. Like a huge toolbox that we purchase from the hardware store. We often use only a few of the biggest and the most obvious tools; but barely ever touch others that can be very useful for many situations. Using each tool in a software will require practice and some amount of knowledge. The overwhelming complexity of Microsoft Word can be managed by learning one tool at a time.

As an example, many employees are not aware that Microsoft Word is equipped with Macro feature that can help users to customize how they use Word. Other common productivity tools, such as Excel, Power Point, Access and Photoshop also have hidden, but powerful features that can extend the usability of these software. With proper tools, it is possible for users to meet many business issues in the workplace. Again, because many of the business software is so versatile; employees should be trained to use only features that they need most. Any time of customization task should be easy enough to perform. Instead of used to purchase new software, money and time can be allocated to use existing software tools; which is a more appropriate thing to do for smaller companies.