The PC Expert Program is an important part of the Library's strategy to utilize the latest information technologies in the pursuit of our mission. Library staff require instruction, documentation, and assistance in the installation, configuration, and maintenance of their computers and related equipment to fully use them. PC Experts are uniquely positioned at the location of need to assist staff with a variety of requests and problems. In turn, the Library Systems Office strives to support both PC Experts and Library staff at large in the day-to-day use of their computers and in rectifying problems. Below is an outline of the resources and support available to PC Experts in the execution of their duties.
Communication
PCENet
The PCENet is an electronic forum for PC Experts and Library Systems Office (LSO) staff only. its purpose is to serve as a forum for the discussion of tips, problems, solutions and development of ideas pertaining to workstation support within the Library. Subscriptions are by invitation only. To request membership in the PCENet mailing and discussion list, send e-mail to helpbox@library.berkeley.edu. To contribute to the discussion once you're a PCENet member, send electronic mail to pcenet@lists.berkeley.edu, and all members will receive the message.
Meetings & Classes
Regular meetings and/or classes will occur as required to instruct PC Experts in a particular subject or task. Each meeting or class will also serve as an opportunity for PC Experts to communicate needs to LSO staff or to discuss issues relating to the program.
PC Experts Web Page
The Library Computer Infrastructure Services (LCIS) unit of the Systems Office maintains a link to the PC Experts Web Page at http://www.lib.berkeley.edu/Staff/LSO/lcis. Information on the PC Experts program, answers to Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) and other documentation can be found on the page, where it can be printed out in "hard copy" form on the user's local printer.
Direct Communication
LSO staff involved with PC Expert Program (Andy Spalaris, Angeline Lok, or David Wong) can also be contacted directly via email or telephone if required.
Documentation
PC Experts Web Page
The Library Computer Infrastructure Services (LCIS) unit of the Systems Office maintains a link to the PC Experts Web Page at http://www.lib.berkeley.edu/Staff/LSO/lcis. Information on the PC Experts program, answers to Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) and other documentation can be found on the page, where it can be printed out in "hard copy" form on the user's local printer.
Systems Office Handouts
The Systems Office has created a number of handouts that PC Experts may find useful. Most of the handouts are available on the PC Experts Web Page, where they can be printed out on a user's local printer.
Instruction & Training
PC Expert Training Meetings & Classes
To expand upon your capabilities as a PC Expert, a continuing series of PC Expert meetings and classes will be offered as needed, to address particular tasks or topics. These meetings and/or classes will be announced via the PCENet forum (see above under "Communication").
Outside Training Opportunities
Based upon funding, PC Experts may be able to take advantage of selected courses offered by commercial training vendors in support the PC Expert program.
Other PC Experts Resources
Help Desk Database
The Help Desk database is available for PC Experts to connect to and use in read-only mode (changes cannot be made). The Help Desk database consists of all of the requests for assistance from Library staff fielded by Help Desk staff via telephone (2-6120) and email (helpbox@library). LSO staff uses the Microsoft Access-based program to track requests, store information relating to a problem, monitor trends in Library workstation failure, and identify needs for staff instruction. The complete procedure to connect to the Help Desk database is available from LCIS for PC Experts only. Please contact the Help Desk (2-6120) to request assistance accessing the Help Desk database from your local PC.