Career
Education Versus Experienceby David Goldsmith
A year ago we published an article based on a woman who was told by university professors that because her college-level business education was 10-years old, it was out of date. On-the-job experience was discounted, if not ignored altogether. Experience is a valuable career asset. However, advancement and opportunity are more likely gained if we understand the educational divide that has permeated the business arena.
In 1985, a typical desktop computer was a MacSE with 20 Mg Hard Drive and 4 mg Ram. 2000's typical computer boasts a 600 mz+ processor with 64+ RAM and a 10 mg hard drive. Technology has vastly increased the computing power and memory of today's hardware. The increased power of the machine has effected a widespread transformation in office environments, which has impacted the educational demands for more technologically saavy graduates.
Fifteen years ago, an MBA program required the use of a mainframe computer system (and some type of computer language). Courses focused on basic spread sheet usage in addition to standard business practice lessons. Much has changed. An operations management course in 2000 not only covers facility location logistics, queuing theory and optimizations with simulator style programs, but it teaches how a 3-hour hand-done simulation is completed by use of a computer with the capacity to run 1000 scenarios in a few minutes. Enormous are the benefits to the modern day office; enormous are the changes in the classroom to accommodate the needs of that office.
Employers are in desperate need of up-to-speed, educated employees. This is where we see the broadening of the educational divide. The issue, then, is not that a 10-year old education is invaluable, it is that standards have risen. Graduates from MBA schools looking for higher incomes search for companies that can pay tens of thousands more in income, offer stock options, and provide packages that may include a new BMW. The newest skills are quickly being acquired by large or wealthy firms, while smaller, financially limited firms are forced to use their existing knowledge base.
Here's an example. A firm is looking to locate a distribution facility. It uses traditional thought approaches and some analysis. This company would be at a disadvantage against a competitor employing an army of skilled technicians: technicians who can run scenarios and statistical evaluations to determine the exact, most profitable location for a new facility. The latter company gains its advantage by use of information that is gathered and processed to generate a multitude of winning strategies.
Professors, students and leaders need to be on the same page. Generalizations about what is more valuable - experience or education - don't benefit anyone. Both are important to success. If your position on the scale leans more towards experience, be grateful. It's easier to hone your educational skills than it is to gain 10-years of work experience. To strengthen your career marketability, bridge the educational divide by working on the following:
1. Take a course or two at your local university.
2. Don't just learn soft skills but look for skills that might quantify or qualify your industry.
3. Pick up a text book. Most business books explain theory while textbook force application and proficiency.
4. Contact simulation software companies
5. Learn about other industry advances.
6. Join an organization that may have facility tours. Like a Saturn plant or the commodities exchange.
Business tools have undergone huge changes in only 15 years. Whether you're an executive or front-line employee, knowing about and preparing yourself to be in line with higher standards puts you in the position to seize business opportunities.
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David & Lorrie Goldsmith are founders of the Syracuse-based MetaMatrix Consulting Group Inc. Their firm specializes in consulting and speaking services. They can be reached at 315-476-0510 or 888-777-8857 or emailed at dgoldsmith@davidgoldsmith.com.
