Simple Computer Applications Everyone In Business Must Master

Computer applications have evolved to be become indispensable tools. Whilst it is practically impossible for any single individual to be versed in every application, an above average working knowledge is crucial with respect to some applications. In business, some computer applications are common-place and are a must master for every professional.

Some of these technologies are very simple to use and are available for free. The list of computer applications for office or business management is tall but this article is delimited to the very basicones that must be known to every professional, particularly those now seeking to enter the labour market.

WordProcessing Application
This is probably the most popular application for word and document processing. Word is appropriate for writing speeches, lettersand memos among others. This application is available together with other office applications and can be used either on a computer or other devices with similar capacity. Beyond the basic skills of typing, professionals must be familiar with word formatting, using shortcuts (this simply saves time) and integratingwordwith other applications. An average typing speed of 40 wpm is recommendable but formatting and editing at a good pace it also important.

Power Point
Powerpoint isbest for presenting ideas, pitching concepts and generating instant interest among others. Although power point is simple to use, it takes skill and mastery to make an impression with power point. This application works in bullets and hence requires simple and straightforward sentences.Illustration and graphics could enhance the reception of powerpoint presentations but avoid overelaboration. Powerpoint is available together with word on most office applications.

Excel
Most businesses today keep databases effectively managed with spread sheets. Professionals orentry level job seekers stand a better chance of catching the eye of management if they can perform simple to intermediate level tasks in spread sheets. This may include creating and managing tables, basic calculations and formatting among others. This application is available in gridlines and may come across as complex to many people but the spreadsheet is indispensable in modern business.

Outlook
This is an email management application that also includes a calendar, task manager, contact manager, note taking and journal. Outlook allows you to create different folders for emails to avoid cluttering and choking on your inbox. Outlook users arealso able to save and retrieve emails even when off-line. This is more like a gate keeping service that helps you to save time by looking in the right place for the right information at the right time. For instance, a separate folder could be created for work mails different from social media updates. This makes it easy to go straight to the messages you want to read without missing any email to inbox overflow. Folders may also be created directly in any email account to manage messages. There are other applications on the internet that are helpful for email management.

How to start? The internet is a great place to start learning about these simple applications. However, the secret is practice, practice, practice. Practicing the use of these applications helps to improve your skills.

Stephen Tindi
[email protected]
Fellow, Prestige Research Ghana