Word Competency

Abstract

Word processing abilities are very important in today's work environment as it is a major form of communication. This paper will review my strengths and weaknesses utilizing word-processing software, my action plan to address weaknesses, and explain why this version of communication is important to be effective.

Word Processing Competency

Method

To better understand my personal capabilities with utilizing word-processing software, I created a word document in MS Word 2003© from a blank sheet. The specific software utilized for my document was Microsoft Office©.

I reviewed the amount of time it took me to complete each function integrated into a sample document to determine the aspects of word-processing I was most competent with. Upon completion of the document, I searched online documentation from the word-processing software creator about the various features and attributes that were available for document creation. From that research, I reviewed those features that I was familiar with in comparison to those I had not ever worked with to uncover those tools that I needed to develop my proficiency on.

Results and Discussion

In my lifetime, I have seen the written word communicated in a variety of ways based on technological developments. When I was young, the tools we used to capture our written message were a writing utensil and a blank sheet of paper. The important criteria were penmanship, spelling, and content. As I grew up, the written word was captured through typewriters, and then followed by typewriters that had very limited word processing capabilities (limited to one line). Today, we have word-processing software to capture our intended message and present it in a form that can bridge the gap for misinterpretation of the message. Because of the word-processing software and features available today, I believe that readers have come to expect a clear message, free of mistakes, and full of informative content, whether the subject matter is for entertainment or business.

After developing a sample document utilizing word processing software, I realized that there were several word-processing attributes that I found easier than others. I categorized my proficiencies with these attributes as either strengths or weaknesses; based on the amount of time it took me to incorporate these features into the document, and then reviewed how to address these weaknesses (see Table 1). I believe it is important to actively work to mitigate my weaknesses through practice, education, and co-worker assistance because of the lasting impact that the written word can have on its intended audience.

Table 1

Word processing

Strengths Weaknesses Action plan to address weaknesses

* Picture and object insertion

* Hyperlinks

* Spelling

* Change tracking

* Custom toolbar creation * Page formatting

* Indexes and tables

* Automating tasks and programmability

* Form creation * Utilize on-line tutoring such as Microsoft Office Online (Word 2003 Courses, 2007)

* Format documents with built in templates available on MS Word 2003 © (Template Categories, 2007)