It's not cutting-edge technology that needs attention in this state's credit unions, but basic computer literacy, according to the person who has made that his charge.
Processing Content
"I've already rolled out a technology curriculum, based on mainstream Microsoft applications," including training in Word, Excel, Access, Outlook, and Publisher, said Mark Jackson, the new director of education at the Maine CU League. "I see them as tools of the trade." Jackson joined the Maine League in July.
The Windows-based training, prepared for all levels of staff, directors, and volunteers, is aimed at addressing the fear factor that inhibits credit unions from providing the kinds of service expected from financial institutions.
"From my own experiences, people say that's why they're not doing their banking with a credit union," Jackson said. "The perception is that credit unions are not there with the technology. I'd like to get rid of that perception."
Jackson pointed to the messaging capabilities of Microsoft Outlook, which can be used to streamline e-mail messages and accelerate response times to members. "That's a big need that's not being addressed," he said. "I've worked with technology and seen it change businesses. I'm a huge advocate."
The road to success often lies in how paper is pushed. "Some credit unions still use paper tests and grading," he said. "They need to use their time more effectively.
"It's do or die for the smaller players," said Jackson.
Prior to joining the Maine league, Jackson taught undergraduate and graduate computer and management courses at colleges and universities for the past eight years. His educational background includes an M.S. in Business Education from New Hampshire College.
Not In Tech Support Business
Although Jackson, equipped with six new laptops, will travel and train CUs around Maine, he's not going into the tech-support business. "What I'm committed to is education, not tech support," he said.
But once employees are trained to use certain tools, what will they do when those tools crash?
"Long-term support is a challenge," Jackson acknowledged. He gravitates between depending on the league and the software supplier to deal with everyday problems.
Support could also come from large CUs and CUNA, Jackson ventured. With talented IT departments and impressive banking applications, the big guys may be able to lend the small guys a hand. "That's still in the works," he said.
Jackson's recently implemented curriculum is a switch from the standard custom-tailored CU training. "Employees are already trained on specific CU products," Jackson explained. "If the training is for something vendor-specific, I'm really trying to steer away from it."
As for credit union membership, Jackson himself doesn't need any education. "I've always been a credit union member," he said. "I didn't need to be converted."
