Title

Performance Level Improvement for Microsoft Word Users

Author

Carole Beck-Schoener, Concordia University, St. Paul

Date

1991

Document Type

Capstone

Degree

Bachelor of Arts

Project Coordinator (Advisor 1)

Jan Eggersgluess

Abstract

The purpose of this project was to determine ways in which the performance level of Microsoft Word users could be improved. The original problem was that all Wang dedicated word processors were replaced with multi-functional personal computers. The personal computers had to enable each of the support staff to do word processing, download fonts, PC COMplete, manipulate data using a spreadsheet and database packages. Immediately after the implementation of Microsoft Word 4, an upgrade of Microsoft Word 5 was installed, which added to the confusion that was being experienced.

The objectives of the project included achieving more effective operation of the Microsoft Word program by users in the Consumer Foods sales, obtaining 100 percent return of the questionnaires that were used during the beginning and ending of the testing phase, and increasing awareness in effectively using Microsoft Word.

Hypotheses developed by the researcher related to both needs and alternative courses of action. The needs hypotheses reflected the researcher's belief that the current level of Microsoft Word is low and that the Secretaries and Office Staff Assistants in the General Mills Consumer Foods Sales Department believe additional training could assist in the performance of their duties and save time.

Hypotheses relating to the selection of a course of action reflected the researcher's belief that Secretaries and Office Staff Assistants would recognize the need for further training. These hypotheses were tested by the analysis of data collected in two questionnaires that were administered to the group of 12 Secretaries and Office Staff Assistants on February 5, 1990, and August 15, 1990, to test the validity of the hypotheses.

The analysis of the results of the two surveys administered confirmed the researcher's belief that the current utilization of Microsoft Word is low, Secretaries and Office Staff Assistants recognize applications could be performed more effectively on their computers, and that future training is needed. Also confirmed was that an in-house specialist whose services were used during the testing phase was not fully utilized and would not be the solution to the training problem.

Comments

Concordia School of Accelerated Learning

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