About the Program

In order to provide additional technology support to the College, the Office-Based Consultant program was started in July, 2000. Recognizing that Berea College has many employees who are skilled technology users and who assist others on an informal basis, this network of resource people was created. Office-Based Consultants provide the first contact for employees in an office, on a floor, or possibly within in an entire building. Departments/divisions determine how the office-based consultant functions within their area.

The OBCs work closely with IS&S staff to extend support across campus into individual divisions/departments on a daily basis, and to offer input into planning for technology needs. The support and assistance from Office-Based Consultants results in a decrease of basic inquiries to the Help Desk, allowing the Help Desk staff to focus on more advanced issues. The Consultants are able to pass along exact information about problems and training needs to the Help Desk. If the Consultant cannot provide assistance, or is not available, the Help Desk remains available to help with questions.

The Office-Based Consultants meet each week for some of the following reasons:

• Introduction of new software packages, versions and equipment
• Training on new software, hardware, the network, and trouble shooting
• Instruction for new upgrades and patches
• Discussion of questions or computer problems raised by colleagues
• Advance notice and preparation for upcoming changes for the College

Potential Benefits

Office-Based Consultants should be able to assist with some or all of the following:

• Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint)
• Outlook: Contacts, Distribution Lists, Calendar Sharing, Creating an appointment
• Hard drive maintenance
• Data backup
• Creating a PDF
• Adding or deleting printers
• Microsoft Windows XP
• Contacting Help Desk
• General knowledge of Banner
• “NOLIJ” (document imaging software)
• Laptop computers
• Classroom media systems
• Wireless technology support
• Internet Explorer
• Department specific software