SOFTWARE TRICKS OF THE TRADE

We have a regular process we go through on a quarterly basis which we call "Tricks of the Trade". In the process, we gather up all recent notifications from our software vendors regarding upgrades and updates they have recently released and we quickly review them for applicability.

A small group presents our findings and recommendations to other employees in an informal presentation. We show employees new fields and new processes and we discuss the merits of each. During these presentations it inevitably comes to light that people all use the software systems differently to achieve their objectives. Some of the most beneficial changes that come out of these meetings is that people learn some shortcuts and new uses of their computer systems to become more efficient.

You never know where these little tricks will come from as everyone is engaged during the presentation and all ideas and examples are welcome. You never know whom will step forward to share the shortcuts they have developed. You never know how big the effect might be on the overall efficiency of the company. You just never know.