Microsoft Office User Specialist Training

Get training, get certified, get ahead. 

Training with the intention of becoming a Microsoft Office User Specialist is more intense than instruction geared toward performing simple tasks. Specialist training is objective-based instruction covering a wide range of basic and advanced tasks that prepare the user to achieve certification status with software included in Microsoft Office 2000, Office XP or Office 2003. The Microsoft Office User Specialist certification, or MOUS/MOS certification, provides a means for users to back up claims of software mastery.

1.   Features

o    Microsoft Office User Specialist training can include any software application in the Office suite. Whether you choose training in Office 2000, Office XP, Office 2003, software training is available for Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Access and Outlook. Training follows a series of objectives established by Microsoft that demonstrate proficiency with the software you are using. For example, Word 2003 training objectives include creating content, organizing content, formatting content, collaborating and formatting and managing documents. Each objective includes specific tasks you must accomplish to demonstrate proficiency.

Methods

o    Training methods available for a potential Microsoft Specialist User includes in-house, or classroom training and self-study computer-based training. In-house training is a traditional form of training and can be instructor-led or self-paced. Classroom training is available at locations such as a local community college, or a private computer training school. Computer-based training can also be instructor-based when in an in-house setting but is more often a self-paced, self-study training method. Self-study training is available directly through Microsoft and via numerous third-party providers. To get the most out of your training, it is important to consider factors such as cost, time frame and your degree of 


self-motivation.

 

 Time Frame

o    The time required to master training objectives depends on the training method you choose, your skill level and how much time you spend working with the application. In addition to the time required to attend training classes or work through self-study learning modules, you must also figure in a sufficient amount of time for practice. Taking the time to set up a study schedule is a good idea to become comfortable with objectives and tasks and more proficient with the software.

Potential

o    The User Specialist certification is the first of three certifications you can achieve. If you choose to pursue additional certifications, a Master and Expert certification are also available. Achieving additional Microsoft Office certifications can have an even greater impact on your resume and increase the potential for advancement with your present employer.

Considerations

o    Microsoft Office User Specialist certification exams are in-house exams you must take at a Certiport exam center.

Microsoft made significant changes to the User Specialist certification starting with the release of Office 2007. Differences include changes to the name, number of exams and available levels of certifications. Reasons for the change are mainly due to a major overhaul in Office 2007 software. It is still a good idea to consider Microsoft Specialist User training as many companies and individuals continue to use the 2003 and earlier versions of the software. Getting User Specialist training, and then beginning work on the Office 2007 software products can be an even better way to add more appeal to your resume.