A Listserv group is another good way to join an online discussion where the information comes to you via e-mail. One person starts a new subject, asks a question or makes an observation, and everyone on the Listserv gets a copy. People reply or comment on the original e-mail and you get a copy of that also. Online Training One of the newest and most exciting areas for the Reliability and Maintenance professional is online training. Most of the offerings available today consist of a PowerPoint type of presentation combined with a standard telephone based conference call for voice.
Most new browsers have all the plug-ins required to participate in online training.
As bandwidth capabilities grow, you can expect to see more video and interactive graphics in use, as well as voice over the Internet technology. Because of their specific focus, they usually offer the current issue online and a searchable archive of past articles and case histories. A new concept of allowing the end users of industrial reliability products and services to post reviews and share their opinions was launched earlier this year and has been met with great success. Click here to submit a product, service or event review Vendor Sites Most Product and Service vendors have Web sites now. These sites allow you to investigate a vendor and its offerings before you decide to contact them.