Software

How are software skills relevant and valuable in the technical support career?

Software skills provided me with the tools I needed to be able to troubleshoot efficiently and help others understand the process. Using tools effectively shows my extent of knowledge on specific software. Troubleshooting takes time but if you improve and retain information you can save yourself time and for a business that equivalent is also money.

Why is this knowledge important?

I want to succeed and become more efficient and knowledgeable. Showing that I love what I do and it brings me happiness in helping others empower themselves. 

What were the most important things that you learned about software?

I learned that keeping up with the changes will help me provide more up to date information. (lower my frustrations while troubleshooting.)

The Learning Evidence:

Example of Software knowledge, skills, and/or abilities: 

1. PowerPoint Summative Assessment (SAFB – PowerPoint Application (ribbon-features)

2. Windows Defender (ITSS-BIS)

3. SAP Crystal Reports 2020 (Certificate)

What level of knowledge did you have of how to create this artifact before you began? 

Basic Microsoft applications skills and familiarization with layout of PowerPoint and Word interface (ribbon and interface.)

How did you learn how to do it?

I gathered research on how the application works and group discussions and class activities helped because when we collaborated, we found out about how others work and became aware of each other’s knowledge base. 

What did you learn from the process? 

That there is still more to learn and tips to make using these applications quicker. 

What challenges or barriers did you have to overcome to complete it?

When I learn about a new feature, I usually have to write it down or take notes on it until I’m familiar with especially if it’s an application I don’t normally use on a daily basis. I will spend time familiarizing myself with the software which means I do I invest my time into the subject (time-management.)

What level of knowledge do you have now? What strength/skill/knowledge does it demonstrate?

I would say I have a more than proficient level of knowledge about Word and PowerPoint applications. Because in the IT-CSS program I use the basic Microsoft Applications on a daily basis when I do presentations or collaborate with others, especially remotely. The majority of my presentations need to be completely in class, so I feel like I’ve increased my knowledge and demonstrated my skill at using Word or PowerPoint. 

Reflection:

What does this artifact mean to you? What does it "say" about you and your abilities? 

The SAFB course helped me gain more knowledge about Microsoft word applications. With that I felt like I was giving a bit more leverage when it came to collaborating with others and presenting my assignments and future technical writings in other courses.

What is the importance in relation to your personal or professional growth?

I always want to learn more and make things easier than harder and along the way help others with my own findings. I'm constantly love finding new ways to get to a solution.

How will you use it (and/or this skill) as a career professional to benefit a business? 

As I progress, I hope to use it in building my non-profit where I want to teach others basic computer skills