WIA presents both a challenge and an opportunity to use the new technologies available to the workforce system.

I often joke that my goal is to help the workforce development system move into the 20th century before the 21st century starts. Time is running out.....

Let's look at what some far-seeing colleagues imagine what the workforce system of the not- too-distant future may look like and how the dynamics and demands of our customers will change the way we organize ourselves and meet their needs.

The cone represents a way of visualizing the shape of our customer base in the future and how we will have to array our services and promote self-services through the Internet and other technologies to meet our goals.

Many new functionalities have been developed in the last few years that are potentially very useful in the operations of all facets of the system.

1. For the customer:

--labor exchange sites such as AJB, Monster Board, etc.
--labor market information pages
--resume writing/job search assistance
--research/informational pages such as local newspapers, etc.
--internet sites that provide support and ideas
--guidance on how to access relevant quality training

2. For the employer:

--labor exchange sites to post jobs and solicit employees
--enhanced labor market information access

3. For the workforce development system;

--new tools for managing and administering programs
--computer based case management programs;
--computer/internet based training opportunities
--electronic clearinghouses of best practices/training provider lists, etc.
--instant access to information about new programs and new policies
--improved communication with partners under the new improved comprehensive system envisioned by the new Act.

These are but a few examples of the opportunities that new technologies offer to the workforce development system of the future.

We need to underscore the importance to the system and its members of developing "technological competencies"--from the perspectives of the organization, the staff, and the customer--in terms of hardware, software and training.

These competencies are key to running effective programs in the future; those organizations that develop these skills and invest in these technologies will have a decided advantage competing under the rules of the new workforce investment system. Those organizations unable to adapt and use the tools now available will fall further and further behind.

We need to identify and promote examples of how those agencies and organizations that are leading the way in adopting new and innovative ways of doing business, while keeping their focus on the important goals of WIA. Technology needs to be regarded as a tool to help do our jobs better and it is important to recognize the importance in discovering, adopting and using appropriate technologies that can help us do that.

Technology is not something that is an add on or a separate track, but a key element of program administration woven into the fabric of our operations. We need to start discussing and identifying how to integrate these functions into our programs now and we will have a chance to explore the subject further at JETT*CON in July.