FW: Experience VS Ability

[David Lettvin <David -dot- Lettvin -at- SEAGATESOFTWARE -dot- COM>]

-----Original Message-----
From:   John Eldard [SMTP:jeldard -at- PARKCITY -dot- COM]
Sent:   Wednesday, June 11, 1997 3:24 PM
To:     TECHWR-L -at- LISTSERV -dot- OKSTATE -dot- EDU
Subject:        Experience VS Ability

How many of you in TECHWR-L-land get resumes filled with names of
software programs that the writer, illustrator, editor, etc., is
EXPERIENCED in using? I would like to suggest that the ability to use
complicated software tools is more critical to the cause than listing
a
full corral of tools you are EXPERIENCED or maybe even EXPERT in
using.

True enough, but having a list of software tools in which the
interviewee claims competence may provide you with some opportunities
to ask questions that will reveal the extent of their ability.
Additionally, the list may provide some insight into experience with
certain "families" of software.

As the manager of the department and the interviewer, I am far more
concerned with base competencies (language skills, attitude,
curiosity, etc.) than with specific software skills. But these
ubiquitous software lists do provide me with some useful information.

Here's an example:
An interviewee has listed familiarity with RoboHelp, Doc-to-Help, and
Help Magician in her resume. Since I'm familiar with the first and
last products, I ask her to explain the most important differences
between the two. The response will tell me whether she has used the
products, expertly used the products, or has merely listed them as
bullet items to get in the door. None of the responses on their own
will be telling, but they will help me build up a picture of the
candidate.

In today's cyberworld, with versions of software appearing as often
as
my kids ask for money, how could you possible be an expert or
experienced in  all the aspects of the job or all the tools available.
I
firmly believe this is where reading and conferences come in. You
need
to become good at knowing the trends, the basics of those trends
(techniques, tools available, how they work, etc.) and be able to use
them with little (but some)ramping-up time. What are your opinions.
(I
am considering an article for a professional journal about this
subject
and possible use you as a resource) Thanks -


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Variables won't; constants aren't.
- Osborn

My opinions are my own.
Dlettvin -at- seagatesoftware -dot- com

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