Why Learn Data?

Most of the people reading this article are responsible for voice communications within their organizations. But is that all we are doing? As Shelly Sprygada of Information Systems Alliance, in Michigan says, "The worlds of voice and data are converging and there is no standing still or turning back." Once you start using applications like Nortel's Call Pilot and Symposium Call Center Server you are getting into data technologies. If you are data phobic, you can have your maintenance vendor manage the installation of the system and all you will have to do is maintain the software through a very easy interface. But, is this a wise decision?

In order to maintain control over these systems (not to mention your own career) you need to know at least a little bit about data. You need to know what servers are, a little bit about how they work, and how they interface with your corporate LAN. Pat Huard, of Xpedx, in Phoenix, says, "This knowledge will allow you to talk intelligently with your vendors." Pat is working on an IT degree so that she can do just that.

Joe D'Urso, of Cozen and O'Connor in Philadelphia says, "You need to know some basics about IP addresses, what they are, how they are assigned, and why you need them." Data devices, including PCs, servers, IP phones, and a host of other devices all need IP addresses and you will have to get them from your data team. "It is good to know what you are asking for" says Joe. He personally took vacation time to attend Cisco CCNA training and became certified because he knew it would be valuable knowledge.

You can't afford to think your company will take care of your career. That is your job, and you have to constantly assess what additional knowledge you will need. Melissa Shaw, of Network World, said in a recent article, "Every employee needs to take charge of their career and act as if they are a freelancer for the company."

Think about how hard you would work as a consultant or freelancer, just to stay ahead of the curve. You would read, take classes, go to seminars, all as an investment in yourself. We all need to think and act that way if we want to stay on top. Shelly and Joe both went to Cisco training, even though they are primarily telephony people. Pat is working on a degree as are numerous others. What are you doing? Are you investing in yourself? How many of us invest in stock of companies that we have absolutely no control over. Why not invest that money in yourself? Get some training and take control of your own career.