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 an entire building. Departments/divisions determine how the office-based consultant functions within their area.

OBC partners will work closely with IS&S staff and Educational Technology 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 result in a decrease in 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 frequently for some of the following reasons:

• • Introduction of new software packages, versions, and equipment
  • Training on new software, hardware, the network, and troubleshooting
  • Instruction for new upgrades and patches

• Discussion of questions or computer problems raised by colleagues
• Advance notice and preparation for upcoming changes in the College

Potential Benefits

Office-Based Consultants could 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
• Box Cloud Storage
• Data backup
• Creating a PDF
• Printers
• Microsoft OS
• Apple OS
• Contacting Help Desk
• General knowledge of Banner
• “BDM” (document imaging software)
• Learning space media systems
• Wireless technology support
• Department-specific software

Partners