Unit of competency details

Unit descriptor 

This unit describes the performance outcomes, skills and knowledge required to establish a workgroup computer network with an information technology consultant and to manage the network by keeping records, responding to problems, assisting users and providing training.

No licensing, legislative, regulatory or certification requirements apply to this unit at the time of endorsement.

Application of the unit 

This unit applies to individuals employed in a range of work environments who are required to apply broad knowledge of computer networks; they may be responsible for installing and maintaining the network, but they will work closely with computer professionals in all aspects of this process. In doing so, they may provide administrative support within an enterprise, or may have been delegated these responsibilities for their workgroup or organisation.

Prerequisite units 

Employability skills 

This unit contains employability skills.

Elements describe the essential outcomes of a unit of competency.

Performance criteria describe the performance needed to demonstrate achievement of the element. Where bold italicised text is used, further information is detailed in the required skills and knowledge section and the range statement. Assessment of performance is to be consistent with the evidence guide.

ELEMENT 

PERFORMANCE CRITERIA 

1. Manage establishment of a workgroup network

1.1. Determine current and anticipated future network requirements  with nominated person  in accordance with organisational policy and budgetary constraints

1.2. Ensure selected network is compatible with current organisational software, hardware and work practices

1.3. Obtain and install equipment  in accordance with organisational requirements and manufacturers' instructions

1.4. Install software  in accordance with organisational requirements and the manufacturers' instructions

1.5. Ensure establishment of network promotes efficiency and access for users 

2. Manage maintenance of a workgroup network

2.1. Establish and maintain records  to ensure control and security  of hardware and software stock, in accordance with organisational policy and procedures

2.2. Respond to network problems  and rectify minor faults  in accordance with organisational requirements

2.3. Report major problems and consult computer experts  in accordance with organisational policy and procedures

2.4. File and store software  in accordance with organisational procedures

2.5. Recommend improvement suggestions for the network to appropriate personnel

3. Assist and train network users

3.1. Provide training  for staff in using the network in accordance with needs

3.2. Assist network users  to maximise network potential 

3.3. Examine user skills  and provide access to appropriate training to improve individual and workgroup efficiency of network use

REQUIRED SKILLS AND KNOWLEDGE 

This section describes the skills and knowledge required for this unit.

Required skills 

• communication skills to follow complex oral instructions when using new technology, to respond to a complex enquiry or complaint and to give complex instructions
• literacy skills to read and interpret complex technical procedures, and to clarify purchasing information on software and hardware for workgroup computer network
• research skills to seek information on the most appropriate hardware and software to suit the organisation's needs
• problem-solving skills to identify the best course of action if a difficulty arises in operating the workgroup network
• teamwork skills to work with others to ensure the success of the network.

Required knowledge 

• features of computer networking
• key provisions of relevant legislation from all forms of government, codes and standards that may affect aspects of business operations, such as:

• anti-discrimination legislation
• ethical principles
• codes of practice
• privacy laws
• copyright
• occupational health and safety

• organisational policies and procedures relating to the tasks required
• software licensing rights and responsibilities.

EVIDENCE GUIDE 

The Evidence Guide provides advice on assessment and must be read in conjunction with the performance criteria, required skills and knowledge, range statement and the Assessment Guidelines for the Training Package.

Overview of assessment 

Critical aspects for assessment and evidence required to demonstrate competency in this unit 

Evidence of the following is essential:

• applying principles of computer networking
• identifying and addressing common problems and arising issues
• consulting and negotiating with IT professionals.

Context of and specific resources for assessment 

Assessment must ensure:

• access to office equipment and networked computers
• access to software.

Method of assessment 

A range of assessment methods should be used to assess practical skills and knowledge. The following examples are appropriate for this unit:

• direct questioning combined with review of portfolios of evidence and third party workplace reports of on-the-job performance by the candidate
• review of authenticated documents from the workplace or training environment
• demonstration of techniques.

Guidance information for assessment 

Holistic assessment with other units relevant to the industry sector, workplace and job role is recommended, for example:

• other information and communications technology units.

RANGE STATEMENT 

The range statement relates to the unit of competency as a whole. It allows for different work environments and situations that may affect performance. Bold italicised wording, if used in the performance criteria, is detailed below. Essential operating conditions that may be present with training and assessment (depending on the work situation, needs of the candidate, accessibility of the item, and local industry and regional contexts) may also be included.

Network requirements  may include:

• hardware, mainframes, servers
• internal/external maintenance
• memory size
• necessary skills and knowledge
• scalability
• set up needs
• software, operating system, application packages, programming
• virus scanners, security requirements

Nominated person  may include:

• external consultant
• IT department or section
• IT manager
• management
• service provider
• supervisor
• system users

Equipment  may include:

• computers, hardware, peripherals
• modem
• server, software

Software  may include:

• accounting
• anti-virus
• database
• internet
• organisation specific software
• page layout
• printer
• spreadsheet
• word processing

Efficiency and access for users  may include:

• clear instructions or guidelines, user guides
• easy to use
• eliminates or minimises duplication in electronic storage of information
• ensures accuracy and security of data
• firewalls
• gateways
• improves reporting processes
• logical set up
• maximises access to information
• multiple users
• reduces processing time
• security needs
• timely training

Records  may include:

• asset register
• details of software licences, locations of software within organisation
• file register
• index cards
• inventory lists
• log books
• requisition forms

Control and security  may include:

• allocation of folders and sub-folders
• limited number of users, limited time period for usage
• monitoring stock level
• restricted and authorised access
• storage conditions and requirements
• use of passwords and log-ins

Network problems  may include:

• damaged cabling
• human error
• memory full
• server crashing
• virus

Rectifying minor faults  may include:

• anti-virus software
• clearing memory space
• reloading software
• repairing or replacing parts
• resetting server

Computer experts  may include:

• computer service centre
• external consultant
• IT supervisor or manager
• online help
• supplier and manufacturer

Filing and storing software  may include:

• archiving
• creating back-up copy
• external storage
• file register, electronic or paper-based
• fire proof , heat proof , humidity proof storage
• organisation records room
• organisation storeroom

Training  may include:

• expert demonstration
• information sessions
• one-on-one
• workshops

Network users  may include:

• organisation personnel
• external clients

Maximising network potential  may include:

• access to information
• effectiveness
• efficiency
• multiple users
• reporting facilities
• usefulness

Examining user skills  may include:

• observing
• surveying
• testing and assessment

Unit sector 

Competency field 

Information and Communications Technology - IT Building and Implementation

Co-requisite units