I do think a background in history is helpful in obtaining a long term
perspective needed to address life cycle issues. One also develops good
writing/research skills which apply to issues such as retention
scheduling and policy development. Business training provides a good
background in strategic thinking and planning, which helps one get a
handle on the often complex set of challenges we face. I will say,
however, that many of the MBAs I have encountered over the year have a
careerist drive that seeks to profit from the hot technology/management
theory of the day, without considering long term implications. I'll bet
just about all of us can relate to the rotating door of management
theories that we have had to endure, with little to show for it in the
long term. Regarding technologies, I'm old enough to remember when
failure to implement an AB Dick updatable microfiche system was a sure
sign of your backwardness and stupidity.

Ultimately, the best skills one can develop are to be a facilitator of
your own unique set of skills, and the skills of those around you.
Learning to celebrate and coordinate the unique attributes we and our
colleagues bring to the table is what ultimately moves all of us
forward. Consequently, training in effective communications and in
personnel management is a must regardless of which background you come
from.

Dwight Wallis, CRM
Records & Distribution Services Manager
Multnomah County Fleet, Records, Electronics, Distribution & Stores
(FREDS)
1620 SE 190th Avenue
Portland OR 97233
phone: (503)988-3741
fax: (503)988-3754
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