Ask Slashdot: How To Teach IT To Senior Management?

New submitter gagol writes "I recently took a position at a small industrial equipment manufacturer. We are looking to buy a new ERM software package and my boss, who is looking forward to buy the thing, knows nothing about computers or software. I will be providing basic IT training to the senior management and I am looking for your input on the scope and content of said training. I am thinking: basic components and architecture -> networking -> software -> proprietary vs open source. What do you think?"

Comments

None of the above

[GerryGilmore]

If you are going to be training senior management, focus 100% on the ERM software and how they can use it for their business needs. They could likely care less about the underlying plumbing and it would take much more time and effort than they'd be willing to undergo, plus it's not in their interests to do that. That's why they hire smart IT guys, right?

Example of focus

[Okian Warrior]

Here's an example of how this works.

Suppose you are trying to sell a new computer to a company - an older machinist's shop whose office is still using Dos.

You *could* say "these new computers are dual core, 3 GHz, running Windows XP and Office suite". Their eyes will glaze over and you won't make the sale.

You *should* say "these new computers will save your company $2000 per month. Here's how:" ...and list the ways that the new computer will save them time. An hour here, an hour there - it adds up.

Present things in ways which are important to the listener. The big three are 1) Saves money over the long run 2) Saves time over the long run, and 3) Saves effort over the long run. Frame your information in those terms.

Re:Focus on what they want to know

[jamstar7]

4. Use a large club. Remember, first you have to get their attention...