We all know that software companies like to change things – sometimes a lot. Take Microsoft Office 2007, for example. It is different enough from previous versions to confuse even the best of us.
For that reason, the Trailways Girl Scouts of America in Joliet contacted Joliet Junior College looking for help.
"They had a unique problem," said Joseph Giunta, training manager for Joliet Junior College. "Their staff not only changed to Office 2007, they changed platforms – going from Macs to PCs."
For that reason, the Girl Scouts wanted customized training to help staff members adjust to the new PC platform. "Although their initial request was to train their staff to use PCs, it became clear, after talking with them, that they might benefit more from simply learning the differences between Office 2003 and Office 2007," said Giunta.
Giunta suggested that the Girl Scouts send a few staff members to JJC's one-day seminar called What's New in Microsoft Office 2007. "They loved it," said Giunta. "The instructor covered all the differences between 2003 and 2007 which addressed their needs perfectly."
Later, Transitional Vice President of Finance for the Girl Scouts of Greater Chicago and Northwest Indiana, Lisa McCabe contacted Giunta and requested a one-day on-site class for Girl Scout staff members.
"We used our mobile classroom concept," said Giunta. "We brought in laptops and the instructor, Joyce Bredthauer, to spend the day teaching this class. It was very successful."
Girl Scout staffer, Debi Cullen agrees. "The instructor did not speak techno," said Cullen who also appreciated the hands-on approach to teaching Office 2007.
Christine Hajek said, "I learned what I needed to know to work in the program efficiently." Hajeck was impressed with the instructor's knowledge and ability to answer questions.
"Sometimes," said Giunta, "a custom package is not the best solution. In this case, the Girl Scouts found a less expensive, but better approach than custom training. It was a win for everyone."
To learn more about Joliet Junior College's mobile computer classroom, or to discuss your possible training needs, call Joseph Giunta at (815) 280-2729. You can also e-mail Giunta at jgiunta@jjc.edu.
Back to Success Stories