By Phillip Wrench
My working life started on December 3 1973, in the section of the PMG Department which subsequently became Telstra.
I was employed as a Drafting Assistant generally known in those days as a Records Plans Officer. The job entailed updating and maintaining the network and its associated databases.
Manually maintaining the accuracy of the network with the scope for human error, was of vital importance before the introduction of more refined and more reliable computer systems.
But the rapid transformation of a manual network system to a computer driven system, had its challenges.
The first decision facing management was do you employ computer experts and try to teach them the skills needed to run and maintain the system or maintain the present people skilled in the network like myself?
Initially they brought in computer experts mainly from overseas.
It failed as these computer whiz kids, quick as they were on mathematical shortcuts, failed to absorb the rationale and spirit of why and how the system worked.
The decision was made to teach existing network people about computers.
The system thrived. Using our expertise bolstered by the availability of computer tools, we very quickly learned the opportunities provided by software like CAD (Computer Aided Drafting) which opened the doors to a wider range of function.
We took full advantage of software like CAD (Computer Aided Drafting) and GIS (Graphics Information System) which expanded our mapping and drawing sections.
Our range and number of customers bloomed.
I saw the need for training and moved into a teaching role. I flourished in this new role, and enjoyed educating the many new people joining the communications field.
I had secured my forte! Management expected a 50 to 60 percent success rate of usage with this program.
I achieved a 90 per cent application on a regular basis with programs instigated in the Telstra Work Regions. My job also brought me close to the indigenous applications of NADOC.
It also made me aware of the governments role through the management system NPAMS (Network Plant Application Management System). It was my sweetest slice of life.
