Enlightenment: 1995 - 1997

1995

• Since 1990, Online had been authorized by Microsoft to deliver end-user training. In 1995 we became a Microsoft Authorized Technical Education Center (ATEC). This was the beginning of our entry into training for more technical Microsoft products such as Windows NT, SQL Server, and Exchange.

• We started an experiment to flatten the organization. Years earlier we had experimented with additional layers of middle management. Now we were moving toward a more informal, non-bureaucratic atmosphere with a very flat management structure.

• We relocated and expanded our Philadelphia site at 15^th and Ranstead, across from City Hall. The new site had seven classrooms and is still one of the largest independent training facilities in the city.

1996

• We begin to study the concepts of a learning organization as described in a book by Peter Senge, The Fifth Discipline. This is the beginning of our understanding of organizational development concepts, which help drive the company’s philosophy today.

• Our courseware development department launched "Operation Laser Beam" where we focused on expanding the number of technology courseware titles, greatly increasing the depth and number of technical courseware titles. Today, Online is one of the leaders in delivering technical and specialty training manuals.

• We begin to organize interdepartmental teams to tackle organizational problems. The first example of this approach was our intranet development team, project Chiron. Other project teams followed and attempted to tackle challenges such as hiring and orientation and business planning. These teams use the same methodology used by Microsoft for its own internal development projects.

1997 

• Online wins the ATEC Outstanding Performance Award for four straight quarters. Awarded for the quality and volume of certified Microsoft training, this award was open to all 96 ATECs in the mid-Atlantic region.

• Online expanded to our new headquarters at 300 Delaware Avenue in Wilmington. Taking the entire 14^th floor (over 17,000 square feet) we were able to put all of our classrooms, instructors, and administrative staff on the same floor.

• Online completed its most profitable year with record sales and profits. Bonuses for the year average 5% per employee.

Summary: In the past few years we have seen very dramatic positive changes in our company. By learning organizational development skills, we have been able to develop new models of how to work together. As a result, our trust and respect for each other has increased and continued to grow.  Overall, this positive organizational climate has enhanced our ability to meet the needs of our clients and our employees. As a result, the company has increased its level of success as well.

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