Right-Track has the right stuff

By Rebecca Lynch

Aren't new computers fun? Initially, you bet. But after the unit's out of the box, set up on the desk and humming away, a new PC can sometimes amount to a big ol' frustrating experience--particularly if that device includes new, unfamiliar software. What's a confused employee to do?

Quietly thumb through manuals and pick away at online tutorials? Yeah, employers love to pay for trial-and-error time. Or do they politely request specific training that emphasizes the employees' needs and job functions? With any luck, on-the-job atmosphere is pleasant enough to welcome such suggestions. With a little more luck, big Kahunas will accommodate the request.

Pasadena-based Right-Track Learning Center offers plenty of answers to computer questions--from customized training classes, network design and installation, hardware/software support and web site design. In the four years since the company started, Right-Track has put together a good-sized list of consultants who train on the most popular Windows 95 compatible software packages. Graduated level courses include operating systems, word processing, spreadsheet analysis, database management, graphic presentation, integrating programs, contact management, accounting, communications, Internet and Novell Netware network administration.

Group discounts are available and often Right-Track will tailor the courses to the particular group's needs.

In addition to software training, Right-Track provides Novell network consultation, from designing a network to helping designate (and train) the network administrator in your office. In addition, Right-Track will troubleshoot any difficulties your onsite administrator can't handle, all at reasonable consulting fees.

Right-Track's two training rooms come complete with workstations, white board and a large TV monitor that displays the instructor's screen to students. All classes are limited to 10 or less, to assure that each student receives the proper attention. In addition, manuals are given out with the course, to help individuals when they return to their jobs after class ends (I received a copy of their Windows 95 document which was clear, concise and full of easy step-by-step directions--manual heaven).

Their latest product is SaveFormData, an add-on to Microsoft Word for Windows online form templates. SaveFormData is a macro that allows users to export data from existing forms to a text file, import data into most applications, enhance record-keeping ability by using just one database, and create a mail merge document. Users enter data only once--not over and over into each software package. The product has tons of uses--from sales people who need to track sales and buyers, to anyone with an inventory to track, to training organizations. Right-Track will customize the product to each user's needs.

Copyright (c) 1998 Pasadena Weekly. Reprinted by permission.