Microsoft Project 2010 Training at Pusat Latihan Komputer Cempaka

Microsoft Project is a software tool for Project Management, which serves to aid in planning and tracking the execution of projects. Like many enterprise software from Microsoft, once actually has to figure out how to use it before it becomes a helpful tool and not a dreaded torture device from management.... :)

I've used Microsoft project before, and the latest edition, Microsoft Project 2010, appears to have a couple of new features along with the new interface. Just like the rest of the Office Suite, maybe new people would be less confused by the change of interface, as they would be seeing it for the first time, compared to those who are used to locating buttons and menu items in the previous versions.

It was a 2 day training which was held at the office of Cempaka Technology Sdn Bhd at Plaza Melaka. The office was located on the 1st floor on Jalan PM4. Only the orange signboard gave a clue to its existence, so you'll have to keep a close eye out for it if you've never been there before. Even the entrance is quite obscure, seen here partially hidden behind the column (due to my camera angle). It's directly opposite the Nadeje Patisserie Cafe, which is famous for their multi-layered crepe cakes.

Training was conducted by Mr Liang, who was very knowledgeable on the subject matter and was able to conduct the training effectively and clearly. There were just 4 of us, so I would say that the low Student-to-Teacher ratio helped too.

Now, ordinarily, situated in Melaka Raya, traffic to and fro is normally quite heavy, especially in those peak hours. As luck would have it, these two days, school was closed as declared by the Government, in conjunction with Hari Raya this Sunday and Monday. So, the roads were relatively car-free, enabling me to traverse the distance from here to home and back in less than 1/2 hour.

Parking here requires the use of parking coupons, to avoid a fine. However, since we're going to be there for 2 full days, the wiser option is to park at the nearby open air Metro Parking, which currently charges RM2 per entry. Pay upon entering, just present parking ticket upon leaving.

I link a map here which I got from Cempaka's website (http://www.cemtech.biz), to illustrate the location of the training center, Parking and Mahkota Parade:

Some light refreshments and cakes were provided in the morning and also afternoon breaks, as well as a nice drink counter where you can prepare your own hot drink (Nescafe 3-in-1 and Milo pre-mix, as well as tea).

For lunch, we walked to some nearby establishments to save time. First day, I can't quite recall the name of the place, but on day 2, we ate at Wok and Pan.

Well, at the end of day 2, we received our training certificates and completed the session shortly before "office hours". And so, now, armed with newly acquired knowledge, the next step will be to apply it to our work (which is expected, since the company will not generally send people on training just for fun).

It's quite common to see people eager to use new skills, to the point that they sometimes use it even when there are more suitable skills to apply. Or in this case, there might be a simple project that can more efficiently be managed the "Nike" way (Just Do It)! :)

Well, I'm sure in the months to come, the true test of the effectiveness of this training will be seen hopefully in the improvement in our work performance. If there's anyone out there who's had some experience with this or previous versions of Microsoft Project, or if you have a suggestion on any alternative tools, do share your thoughts and comments.