| The purpose of the study was to determine computer training needs in Fortune 500 companies in the South-Central part of the United States by examining the status and projected need for computer training within these organizations. The characteristics of computer training programs, performance of training needs assessments, and current and future training needs were explored. The relationship of company classification and size to these factors was also examined. The data provided information relevant to current training practices and procedures as well as the essential computer skills required of employees.;The Fortune 500 companies surveyed included 123 organizations within the six-state area of Arkansas, Kansas, Louisiana, Missouri, Oklahoma, and Texas. The questionnaire designed for the study focused on the characteristics and topics related to existing computer training and explored the desired conditions of computer training.;Findings indicated a high use of computers and software. All Fortune 500 companies routinely used word processing and spreadsheet applications. Eight additional applications were used by a majority of the respondents: database, electronic messaging/calendaring, business accounting, desktop publishing, presentations, graphics/paint/draw, statistical analysis, and personal organizer. Business accounting and CAD/CAM applications were most often used in manufacturing organizations and presentations applications were primarily used in large companies.;Computer instruction was provided by 93% of the organizations. The typical training program was 1 to 2 days in length and was provided through formal classroom instruction, in house, and by a training specialist. Large companies favored formal training programs and were more likely to use computer-based instruction. Manufacturing companies preferred one-to-one instruction.;The decision to provide computer training was most frequently based on introduction of new computer software or hardware, with department heads responsible for determining the need for training. The majority of respondents performed training needs assessments and conducted them as a need arose. Small to midsized companies used needs assessments more often than did large companies.;A majority of the organizations indicated that training needs were being met. Reasons for not meeting needs were lack of resources and management commitment. Current computer training needs were most often cited as word processing, spreadsheet, and operating systems. Sales organizations were more likely to need training in desktop publishing, presentations, and telecommunications. Manufacturing organizations were more concerned about training for systems/local area networks and sales organizations were more concerned about multimedia applications. Larger companies were more interested in multimedia and telecommunications training. Projected one-year needs were: word processing, spreadsheets, and computer systems/local area networks.;Training issues and obstacles that presented a challenge for all organizations were ranked from most important to least important as: (1) resources, (2) time, (3) management commitment, and (4) evolving technology. |
