Joe’s Tech

In relation to the desktop support portion of my job, I’ve recently handled several ‘problems’ that are really the result of a lack of skill when it comes to using a computer, so I’ve developed this list of computer skills.  I’ve created three levels:  Basic, Advanced, and Expert.

The items on the list, their order, and their level are completely arbitrary, as I choose them.  However, I expect that anybody working in a modern office should be able to perform Basic level skills.  Advanced may be required for job function, and Expert isn’t really needed, unless you’re a tech support person.  Inability to perform a Basic level skill should be remedied by training, as it hinders proper performance of any modern office job.

Basic

• physical power On/Off with the power button
• power off/restart from the Operating System
• logging on and off
• open and closing programs and files
• opening, closing, maximizing, minimizing, and moving windows
• use scroll bars
• mouse functions: movement, click, double-click, right-click, click and drag
• (laptop only) trackpad/touchpoint movement, click, double click, right-click, click and drag
• run programs from the Start menu/application launcher/application strip/etc.
• find and open files on the computer
• delete files
• copy files, using mouse techniques and keyboard techniques
• create folders
• rename folders and files
• use clipboard functions (copy, cut, paste)
• empty trash/recycle bin/etc.
• using help
• using a web browser
• word processor functions, including basic formatting (justification, font, font size, etc.)
• (laptop only) switch between internal and external displays (for presentations)
• (laptop only) connect a projector
• connect to a wired network
• (laptop only) connect to a wireless network
• connect to an already configured virtual private network
• connect peripheral devices: mouse, keyboard, speakers, printer, monitor, etc.
• change background wallpaper

Advanced:

• configure peripheral devices: mouse, keyboard, speakers, printer, monitor, etc.
• map network drives
• use any applications besides a basic word processor
• advanced word processor functions
• set up e-mail profiles
• change screen resolution
• install software

Expert:

• add or remove a computer from a domain
• physical hardware installation

I may edit this list as I see fit, or as I think of additional items to add.  Meanwhile, here’s a sample computer skills curriculum.  Don’t knock it because it’s for 8th graders.  I know plenty of “office professionals” who can’t do all the items listed on it.